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Image provided courtesy of Pat Clevenger
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Image provided courtesy of Pat Clevenger
The following was provided to me by Mr. William Russo, a knowledgable collector with an interest in the 53rd Mass.
This outstanding Civil War medical view depicts Charles G. Allen as Hospital Steward of the 53rd Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry. Allen stands before the camera lens in full Hospital Steward uniform with nine button enlisted frock with medical steward sleeve device, NCO sword with sling and eagle breast plate and N.C.O. belt over waist sash. Allen holds his forage cap with wreath and U.S. insignia as appropriate for his position. The CDV remains in excellent condition, with "Chas. G. Allen" on the back over "Barre Mass. - H. Steward - 53rd Mass.V.M." The photograph is back marked BOGARDUS - PHOTOGRAPHER - 363 Broadway - NEW YORK . An unusual history as Chas. G. Allen was a 28 year old Physician when he enlisted and was mustered in on 10/17/1862 as a Private of Co. F, 53rd Mass. Volunteers and it wasn't until the end of December that the young Doctor was promoted to Hospital Steward. He was listed as taken Prisoner Of War at Mt. Jackson Virginia on 5/16/1864. Hospital Steward Allen was subsequently paroled and appointed Asst. Surgeon 34th Mass. Infantry on 8/12/1864. He was mustered out on 6/16/1865. An outstanding photograph that will hold special interest for the medical collector this CDV also has a nice Port Hudson connection.
Prepared by Walter G. Blenderman;