1863 Laidlaw U.S. Civil War View of the 148th New York Volunteers at Norfolk, VA

This is a c. 1863 James S. Laidlaw view of the 148th Regiment, New York Infantry's camp at Portsmouth, Virginia, during the American Civil War.

A Closer Look

The 148th established its camp at Portsmouth, Virginia, in 1863 in the middle of the Civil War. Near the bustling naval port of Norfolk, the camp served as a crucial base for operations, logistics, and training. Here, soldiers, contraband slaves, and children wander around the camp in the foreground and middle ground. Here, soldiers carry rifles with fixed bayonets, while others talk, or play with children. Two women appear prominently in the foreground, underscoring the diversity of the war effort. Tents and cabins appear in the background, abutting against a thick forest. The American flag flies prominently over the camp.

The 148th Regiment, New York Infantry

The 148th Regiment was organized at Geneva, New York, and was mustered into service on September 14, 1862. The Regiment left New York on September 22, 1862, and served garrison duty in Virginia until November 1863, when it first saw combat. The Regiment took part in the operations against Petersburg and Richmond beginning in May 1864 and fought in numerous battles, including Bermuda Hundred, Cold Harbor, the Appomattox Campaign, and the assault on Petersburg. The 148th mustered out on January 22, 1865.

Publication History and Census

This view was drawn by James Laidlaw and published by Lang and Cooper c. 1863. This is the only known cataloged example. The 148th served as garrison and security at Norfolk, Virginia, from October 1862 until October 1863.