Images
From wartime photography to illustrations and political cartoons, see the Civil War through the lens and canvas of the ones who were there.
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Published: 10/16/20
John Brown’s Raid
Discover the story of John Brown's raid on Harpers Ferry and its role in the fight against slavery. Explore images that relay the historical significance of this pivotal moment.
Published: 9/1/20
Civil War Sutlers’ Mall
Union soldiers might have enjoyed some of the comforts of home at this sutler store in Virginia.
Published: 9/1/20
Willie Johnston: A Pint-Sized Hero
Read the story of Willie Johnston, the youngest American soldier to be awarded the Medal of Honor at 13 years old.
Published: 7/25/20
An Infernal Machine
Read an article from Harper's Weekly about the discover of an "infernal machine," or mine, used against Union ships in the Potomac River.
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Published: 7/16/20
U.S. Army Surgical Kit
A look at the instruments used by U.S. Army surgeons point to advancements in medical practices and treatments during the Civil War.
Published: 6/1/20
Cadet to Boy Colonel
A look at Harry Burgwyn, a young Confederate who rose to the rank of colonel with the 26th North Carolina Infantry.
Published: 6/1/20
A Deathly Calm
The placid façade of Main Street in the small town of Sharpsburg, Maryland, just a few days after the Battle of Antietam belies the conditions there: thousands of wounded soldiers...
Published: 4/3/20
The “Hero” of Castle Thunder
Learn about the Russian bloodhound used to guard Union prisoners at the prison at Castle Thunder in Richmond.
Published: 4/1/20
A Battlefield Death Delayed
In the final weeks of the Civil War, Thomas W. Chandler was hit in the left temple by a Confederate bullet. He lived for 17 more years.
Published: 3/7/20
An Early Image of War
A photo shows the Trapier Mortar Battery on Morris Island just days after it launched shells that inflicted heavy damage on Fort Sumter.
Published: 3/7/20
A Steadfast Rebel
Emma Kline would be little remembered today if not for a photograph taken in 1864 showing her standing defiantly after her arrest for smuggling.
Published: 3/6/20
The Fashion Trends of 1864
View examples of men's fashions in 1864 as published in an illustration from Harper's Weekly.
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Published: 12/20/19
The March to the Sea
Explore the historic March to the Sea during the American Civil War through images. Follow General Sherman's path as he outmaneuvered Confederate forces and secured Savannah.
Published: 12/19/19
The Drummer Boy of Our Regiment
An 1863 illustration from Harper's Weekly highlights a variety of scenes associated with the service of a Union drummer boy.
Published: 12/1/19
The First Prisoners of War
Unlike most Civil War POWs, some Union soldiers captured at the Battle of First Bull Run didn't endure harsh or inhumane conditions.
Published: 12/1/19
Million-Dollar Soldier
Moses Brown Jenkins was one of the wealthiest young men in America. When news of the attack on Fort Sumter spread, he promptly enlisted.
Published: 11/22/19
The Dogs of Andersonville
Learn about "Spot," one of the dogs used to guard Union prisoners of war at Andersonville.
Published: 10/21/19
Grant’s War Horse: Cincinnati
Discover the story of U.S. Grant's favorite war horse, Cincinnati. Learn about their bond and Cincinnati's role during the Civil War.
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