Description
Wonderful carte view identified as Captain William Halsted of the 65th New York Volunteer Infantry, also known as the 1st United States Chasseurs. Halsted would be commissioned into Company D of the 65th New York in July of 1861 and would serve with the regiment until his discharge in March of 1863. William would see severe fighting in a number of battles including the Siege of Yorktown, Fair Oaks, Seven Pines. Antietam and Fredericksburg. There was a really great letter sold by Heritage Auctions several years ago written by Halsted that detailed the Battle of Fair Oaks. The regiment would lose over 30 men during the engagement. This view shows the captain dressed in this splendid Chasseur great coat and cape trimmed with a tre-foil design. His cap is held in his hand with the numeral “1” visible on the front of the cap for the 1st United States Chasseurs. The front of the card bears a period ink inscription reading “To Mother 22 Nov. 61.”. Halstead would keep in constant contact with his mother throughout his campaign, writing her continuously. This view was no doubt sent home from the front lines tucked into one of the many letters he sent home. Back marked by Brady.
