Images
From wartime photography to illustrations and political cartoons, see the Civil War through the lens and canvas of the ones who were there.
Published: 6/7/23
A Patriotic Pie
Called “patriotic pies” for their content and appearance by the Library Company of Philadelphia, the two-sided prints tell tales of bravery, duty, and love of country.
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Published: 5/24/23
Elmer Ellsworth’s Civil War
Discover the story of Elmer Ellsworth, a Civil War hero and martyr. Learn about his tragic death and the impact it had on the Union cause.
Published: 4/1/23
April-Fool’s Day
View an image Harper's Weekly published to mark April Fool's Day in 1861, only days before the outbreak of the Civil War.
Published: 3/7/23
Richmond After the Fall
An examination of a photo from April 14, 1865, that shows Union soldiers mingling with Confederate parolees at the Washington Monument in Richmond, Virginia.
Published: 3/7/23
A Vinegar Valentine
A look at an example of a "vinegar valentine" sent during the American Civil War.
Published: 3/7/23
An Empty Sleeve After Fredericksburg
First Lieutenant Jacob Thompson Zug had the lower part of his right arm amputated after it was shattered during battle.
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Published: 3/7/23
The Illustrator
An exploration of the Civil War illustrations of prolific newspaper artist Thomas Nast.
Published: 2/10/23
Civil War Emojis
Unveil the hidden story of Civil War emojis. Learn how E.P. Gleason's 1863 ad showcased the use of small images to express ideas and emotions.
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Published: 12/16/22
The Holiday Season During War
Discover how Americans celebrated Christmas and New Year during the Civil War. Explore illustrations that depict holiday festivities in the army and on the homefront.
Published: 9/26/22
A Straggler
Uncover the story behind the Army straggler illustration from Harper's Weekly, revealing the plight of soldiers during wartime.
Published: 9/12/22
“Union Jim” Williams
Learn about "Union Jim" Williams, a formerly enslaved man who aided Union forces in Louisiana.
Published: 9/1/22
If Relics Could Talk
A stunning photo highlights relics from Andersonville Prison auctioned to fund Clara Barton's work at her Missing Soldiers Office.
Published: 9/1/22
After the Storm
Examination of a tranquil photo of Antietam Creek taken by Alexander Gardner five days after the bloody battle fought there in September 1862.
Published: 9/1/22
Full Highlander
A photo of three soldiers sheds light on the colorful uniforms donned by members of the 79th New York "Highlanders."
Published: 9/1/22
Charles Redington Mudge at Gettysburg
A look at the performance of Charles Redington Mudge of the 2nd Massachusetts Infantry at the Battle of Gettysburg.
Published: 8/15/22
Major Knipe Winging a Secessionist
Discover the remarkable incident involving Major Knipe during the Civil War, featured in Harper's Weekly on July 20, 1861.
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Published: 7/21/22
First Bull Run
Explore the Battle of First Bull Run, the first major land battle of the American Civil War, through images.
Published: 6/1/22
A Letter to Cousin Nancy
Photos of Georgia soldier Russell Merriman Cassaday and his cousin Nancy Ellen Sawyers help tell their wartime story.