Description
Spectacular carte view identified as Sergeant Lester Angell of the 10th New York Heavy Artillery. Lester would muster for the war in September, 1862 as a member of Company C, 4th Battalion, New York Black River Artillery. The regiment’s first assignment of the war was serving in defense of the nation’s Capitol. It was while the regiment was encamped here during the fall of 1862, that they would be re-organized into the 10th New York Heavy Artillery. The men of the 10th would remain here carrying out garrison duty in defense of the city until March, 1864. In mid August of 1863, Lester would fall ill with malaria. After several months convalescing in several hospitals, Lester would receive a furlough to return to his upstate New York home for 60 days. As his furlough neared it’s end, Lester was still suffering from the effects of his bout with malaria. Examined by Dr. John Grafton, a prominent surgeon in Watertown, an affidavit was written by Grafton explaining Lester was still unfit for duty or travel and his furlough should be extended. Finally in early August, 1864, Lester’s health had improved and he set off to rejoin his regiment. Arriving at the Provost Marshall’s office, due to a miscommunication regarding Lester furlough extension, he was arrested as a deserter and sent to the Washington Street Prison in Alexandria, Virginia. Several men came to his defense, including the surgeon who had examined him and even his own commanding officer. By November the confusion had been resolved and Lester was back serving with his company. The final, and perhaps most fierce, battlefield actions of the 10th Regiment came on April 2 and 3, 1865. General Grant telegrammed that it was thought the enemy was moving their troops in an effort to concentrate on General Sheridan’s position. The 10th was ordered to fire upon the enemy’s line and ultimately advance on them. After a ferocious fight that resulted in dozens of casualties, including their Major J.B. Campbell, they were successful in their efforts. Lester and the remaining men of the 10th would be mustered out of service in June, 1865. Lester is shown here while serving as the Black River Artillery. Dressed in his artillery uniform, he is armed with a rare M1849 Colt Pocket revolver with the 6″ barrel. Interestingly, he wears a rifle sling as a waist belt. His cap rests on the table at his side with the letter “B R” pinned to the top along with is company designation and artillery insignia. A period ink inscription across the front bottom reads “Lester C. Angell Co. C. 4th Battalion Light Artillery”. The reverse of the card bears a presentation in Lester’s hand reading “Presented to Mr & Mrs Marge Klock”. Spectacular image and this one comes with a considerable amount of documentation.
