Civil War Period Photo and Hair Memorial Locket of a 5th Vermont Bandmaster / Captain, 11th Vermont Infantry / SOLD

Description

Civil War Period Photo and Hair Memorial Locket of a 5^th Vermont Bandmaster / Captain, 11^th Vermont Infantry

 

This poignant wartime locket is a classic example of mid-19th-century mourning and remembrance jewelry, widely worn by spouses and family members during the Civil War. The gilt brass locket opens to reveal two compartments: one containing an original albumen photograph of a bearded Union soldier, and the other preserving a tightly coiled lock of his hair—beautifully intact and untouched.

 

According to the accompanying note, the locket belonged to the family of a Bandmaster in the 5th Vermont Infantry, later a Captain in the 11th Vermont Infantry—the latter redesignated the 1st Vermont Heavy Artillery, which fought as infantry during Grant’s Overland Campaign and in the brutal actions around Petersburg.

 

Bandmasters of Vermont regiments were important figures responsible for morale, drill-time rhythm, and ceremonial functions. Many followed their regiments directly into the field. Transitioning later to the 11th Vermont—one of the highest-casualty units in the state—suggests this soldier had a deep and continuing commitment to service.

 

Locketed hair was typically added by a widow, fiancée, or close family member, and its excellent preservation indicates the piece was cherished and stored with great care for generations. The portrait displays excellent tones and period clarity, typical of early-war albumen prints used in personal jewelry.

 

This is a moving, tangible connection to one Vermont soldier’s wartime service and his family’s enduring remembrance.

 

Comes housed in 6 x 8 riker display case with red velvet and descriptive card.

 

Inventory Number: HAR 241