Signed CDV of William B. "Sims" Simms, 4th Illinois Cavalry Natchez, MS

Signed CDV of William B. "Sims" Simms, 4th Illinois Cavalry – Hughes & Lakin, Natchez, Mississippi Backmark
This is a bold, signed carte de visite of William B. "Sims" Simms of Company L, 4th Illinois Cavalry. The image shows a clear bust view of the soldier wearing an open-breasted Union jacket, revealing his shirt underneath. The signature on the front is strong and contemporary. The reverse features the desirable Hughes & Lakin photographer’s backmark from Natchez, Mississippi.
Service Summary:
Residence: LeRoy, Illinois
Occupation: Mechanic
Enlisted October 9, 1861, at LeRoy, Illinois, at age 25 as a Private
Mustered into Company L, 4th Illinois Cavalry on October 15, 1861
Served full three-year term
Mustered out November 3, 1864, at Springfield, Illinois
At the time of enlistment, Simms was described as 5'10" tall with a fair complexion, hazel eyes, and dark hair.
The Natchez, Mississippi backmark is significant, as it confirms the photograph was taken while the 4th Illinois Cavalry was operating in the Western Theater along the Mississippi River. This is a nicely identified and signed CDV with a scarce Southern photographer imprint.