Description
Wonderful, early war melainotype of an unidentified member of the 23rd Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry more aptly known as the “Birney’s Zouaves”. Originally organized as a 3-month regiment, they would be reorganized in August of 1861 to serve 3 years. Over those next 3 years, the regiment would fight in many of the war’s bloodiest battles. They would be actively engaged throughout the Peninsular Campaign and Maryland Campaign culminating in the Battle of Fredericksburg. Following the disasterous “Mud March” of 1863, they would take pert in the Chancellorsville Campaign, fighting at Fredericksburg, Salem Heights and Gettysburg. 1863 would be rounded out with the Bristoe and Mine Run Campaigns. Following a furlough for the veterans of the 23rd in early 1864, they would join in the Rapidan Campaign fighting at North Anna River. Totopotomoy, Cold Harbor, Weldon Railroad and Petersburg. Following Petersburg, the regiment would return to Washington and be mustered out of service following a grueling campaign. This unknown subject stands dressed in the Zouave inspired uniform worn by the regiment. He also sports a single barreled shotgun and a pair of fancy camp shoes. This one does have a slight crease running horizontally right across the mid section. Housed in a full leatherette case.
