An Early War Massachusetts Militiaman Activated for Federal Service Poses on a Rainy Day in Boston

Carte de visite by Miller of Boston, Mass. The title of this post is my working theory about the unidentified soldier pictured here.

The photographer's imprint, Miller of Boston, Mass., suggests the general location of his military organization, though it is possible he was passing through the city from another part of New England. The style and size of the card stock mount is consistent with albumen prints in the carte de visite format during the first couple years of the Civil War. The lack of a tax stamp (present between 1864-1866) reinforces this dating.

His uniform frock coat, featuring collar and cuffs trimmed with light-colored fabric and brass buttons, side pocket with flap, and epaulette shoulder loops, is indicative of state militia.

The cartridge box sling with round eagle plate, leather cap box stamped US attached to his wait belt, and hint of an oval belt plate suggests this equipment was issued from a United States arsenal, suggesting he has been activated for federal service.

His vertically-striped trousers are civilian, and so is his hat, which appears to be dotted with drops of water on the crown and brim—a rainy day in Boston.

I encourage you to use this image for educational purposes only. However, please ask for permission.

Taken on: November 24, 2023

Tags:

carte de visite

civil war

Boston

Massachusetts

militia

federal

u.s. « less

Sets appears in: • Unidentified veterans

Groups appears in: • Cabinet Portraits, CDV, photos on cardboard • Veterans of the American Civil War more » • Civil War Era Portraits • Early Photography in the U.S.A. • The 1860s « less

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