[Barges, Steamers, and Transports, White House Landing, Pamunkey River, Virginia] 1861 - 1865

Timothy O'Sullivan captured this albumen print, "Barges, Steamers, and Transports, White House Landing, Pamunkey River, Virginia," during the American Civil War. The image showcases the bustling activity at a crucial Union Army supply depot. This photograph provides a glimpse into the logistical machinery of war. In the 1860s, photography served as a documentary tool, shaping public perception of the conflict and revealing the scale of military operations. The very act of documenting the war became a political act, solidifying a narrative and influencing the collective memory of the conflict. To understand O'Sullivan's photograph fully, we delve into military archives and period newspapers. These resources contextualize the image, revealing how the Union Army transformed the landscape of Virginia. Historical analysis reminds us that art is embedded in society, shaped by institutions, and a potent force for shaping public opinion.