CDV of Union Major Charles Townsend 4th Illinois Cavalry

CDV of Union Major Charles D. Townsend, 4th Illinois Cavalry – Chicago Backmark with Period Ink Inscription
 
This is a sharp bust-view CDV of Major Charles D. Townsend of the 4th Illinois Cavalry. The image shows Townsend with a serious, direct gaze, wearing his major’s uniform. A clear period ink inscription on the front identifies the sitter. The photograph was taken by Heslar & Artist of Chicago, with their full imprint on the reverse.
Service Summary:
Residence: Oswego, Illinois
Enlisted August 27, 1861, at age 43 as a Captain in Company C, 4th Illinois Cavalry
Promoted to Major on December 5, 1862
Transferred to Field & Staff on December 15, 1862
Served as Provost Marshal at Natchez, Mississippi
Mustered out November 3, 1864, at Springfield, Illinois
At the time of enlistment, Townsend was described as 5'8" tall with a dark complexion, black eyes, and gray hair. A farmer by trade, he rose through the ranks to become a field officer in one of Illinois’ prominent cavalry regiments.
This CDV is a strong, clear example with excellent contrast and a rare Chicago photographer’s backmark. The period ink identification adds important provenance and makes this a desirable piece for collectors of Illinois Civil War cavalry, Union officer photographs, or identified CDVs.