Pertaining to Corporal William Watlington, Co. "A," 3rd Indiana Cavalry. Items included are a cased quarter-plate tintype of the armed and mounted subject (the image's smooth surfaces with only the lightest spotting and peripheral crazing)...; a ninth-plate tintype of an armed Union private wearing a US belt plate and an infantry bugle hatpin, applied studio gilt corrects the plate's letters that were reversed by the photographic process, this portrait almost certainly shows Watlington as a young 1862 private in the 55th Indiana though his cap's regimental numbers appear to be "54" (the case's front cover is loose, the image with good tonal contrasts and smooth surfaces)...; a gold bullion hat cord with acorn finials...; US Cavalry belt rig complete with M1851 belt plate having applied silver wreath and sword hangers, also fitted with musket cartridge box with US plate and another's initials scratched on the flap (intact, some crazing to surfaces)...; Watlington's August 7, 1865 discharge with custom cover...; a pair of civilian spurs...; a 1905 GAR encampment booklet from Madison, Indiana...; two versions of Watlington's 1930 newspaper death announcement.

The 3rd Indiana Cavalry fought in such legendary engagements as Brandy Station and Gettysburg while later participating in the Shenandoah and Appomattox campaigns. After the war Corporal Watlington returned to Indiana where he was active in veterans' affairs for the rest of his long life.

Mounted cavalry images are quite rare, with identified ones being especially so. An early 20th century print of the Watlington equestrian tintype offered here may be seen on the Indiana State Library website.

$900 - 1,200