Officer’s Sword Belt and Colorized Albumen Photograph of Frederick A. Conrad 33rd Pennsylvania Infantry, 4th Pennsylvania Reserves
Officer’s grade sword belt and albumen photograph of Frederick A. Conrad, who enlisted in May 1861 as a 2nd lieutenant in the 33rd Pennsylvania Infantry (4th Pennsylvania Reserves.) Conrad rose through the ranks and was promoted to major in July 1863 and served with the regiment until mustering out in June 1864. Conrad’s belt is the classic officer’s style made of folded and stitched leather with sword straps and brass hanger clasps. The belt has a high grade, cast brass pattern 1851 belt plate with eagle and integral laurel wreath. The leather is supple with moderate crazing and wear. The long sword strap has some weak areas and a piece of leather glued to one spot as a reinforcement. Conrad appears in the 15” by 12” oval framed albumen photograph standing in his captain’s uniform and sword and is likely wearing this exact belt. His likeness was enhanced with watercolors, and the back of the image has the photographer’s mark of J.H. Young of Baltimore. A wonderful Pennsylvania Reserves officer’s grouping.
Frederick A. Conrad - Residence Philadelphia PA; Enlisted on 5/25/1861 as a 2nd Lieutenant. On 5/25/1861 he was commissioned into "B" Co. PA 33rd Infantry. He was Mustered Out on 6/17/1864 at Philadelphia, PA. POW, Exchanged 8/27/1862 for Joseph F Weaver CS Navy. Promotions: Capt. Major 7/21/1863. Transfers: 7/21/1863 from Company “B” to Field & Staff.
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