Unknown Mounted Dragoon

Tintype of a mounted Dragoon in uniform.

This photograph of an unidentified mounted dragoon soldier is a mystery. It may depict a member of a cavalry company in a state’s pre-Civil War militia. At the start of the Civil War, many such militia units were mustered into service; some briefly retained impressive dress uniforms before abandoning them for more practical dress.

Tintype by Unknown Photographer

Image Courtesy Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield; WICR 32103