Description
Superb carte view identified as Garwood C. Ferris of the 7th New York State Militia. A 30-day regiment, Garwood would muster with “F” Company of the 7th New York State Militia, 6th Company in April, 1861. Known as the “Silk Stocking Regiment”, due to the large number of prominent recruits that enlisted with the regiment, they would perform guard and garrison duty in Washington before mustering out in June of that year. This portrait shows Garwood dressed in the grey uniform issued to the regiment. Armed with his musket, he carries his camp blanket worn over the shoulder with the initials “W.S.E” stitched into the blanket. A M1851 smooth side canteen is worn over one shoulder while a linen haversack is worn over the other. A small holstered revolver is worn on the hip and the numeral “6” can be seen pinned to the front of his cap. The reverse of the card bears a period ink signature reading, “Garwood C. Ferris”. While this view is not back marked, Garwood stands in the studio of Matthew Brady.
