Printed Books & Early American Photography, including Selections from the Larry Ness Collection

36 images, including:

33 CDVs of unidentified members of the 7th New York State Militia Regiment, each lacking a photographer/studio imprint. The lot contains a combination of CDVs on period, cardstock mounts and CDVs affixed to what appear to be later cardstock mounts. 

[With:] 3 stereoviews, each with applied paper label on verso with imprint of E. & H.T. Anthony, New York, series title and image title. Includes Georgetown, from Camp Cameron (2) and Gymnastic field sports of the gallant 7th. The human pyramid.

Together, 36 images. Condition varies, though most feature some toning and occasional soiling, with wear to mount edges and corners.

The 7th New York State Militia Regiment, often known as the "Silk Stocking Regiment" because of the elite social status of many of its members, dates from 1806 when it was formed in response to British ships firing at American vessels off Sandy Hook. The regiment, located in New York City, was mobilized in the 19th century for both state and federal service. It had helped quell many local disturbances in New York throughout the 19th century including the Anti-rent War in 1839, the Astor Place Riot in 1849, and the Dead Rabbits Riot in 1857.

After being called to defend Washington, DC, on the specific request of President Lincoln, the 7th NY arrived on 25 April 1861, taking up residence at the Capitol Building before being ordered to Camp Cameron near Georgetown on 2 May. During its short term of service, the 7th NY helped construct Ft. Runyon before returning to New York City and mustering out on 3 June 1861. The regiment was mustered in again for three months' service in May 1862, mustering out in September 1862; and once again mustered in for 30-days' service in June 1863. It was during this time that the 7th was on duty for the New York Draft Riots that occurred in July of 1863. The regiment mustered out for good on 21 July 1863. After the Civil War, the 7th NY went on to become a New York National Guard regiment, and served into the 20th century.