[Camp of Construction Corps, U.S. Military Railroad at City Point, Virginia] 1861 - 1865

Andrew Joseph Russell created this albumen silver print titled *Camp of Construction Corps, U.S. Military Railroad at City Point, Virginia*, during the American Civil War. It’s an image of a Union encampment in conquered territory, showing the infrastructure that supported the war effort. City Point, located at the confluence of the James and Appomattox Rivers, was transformed into a massive supply depot and transportation hub. The U.S. Military Railroad played a crucial role in supplying the Union Army during the Siege of Petersburg. This photograph therefore captures the military and technological advancements that ultimately led to the Union victory. Railroads, telegraphs, and mass-produced weaponry all played a crucial role. The image’s documentary style emphasizes the scale and complexity of the Union war machine, revealing its dependence on efficient logistics and industrial power. To truly understand the photograph’s meaning, we need to consult historical documents, military records, and personal accounts from the period. Doing so helps us contextualize the image within the broader history of the Civil War and its lasting impact on American society. Ultimately, appreciating any work of art depends on grasping the social conditions that shaped its making.