Laborers at Quartermaster's Wharf, Alexandria, Virginia 1863 - 1865

Andrew Joseph Russell made this albumen silver print, "Laborers at Quartermaster's Wharf, Alexandria, Virginia," sometime during or just after the American Civil War. The photograph depicts a group of African American laborers, some holding tools, gathered near a wharf. The image presents a compelling view into the lives of African Americans during a pivotal moment in American history. The Civil War era brought profound changes in social structures, and photography played a crucial role in documenting these shifts. Russell’s decision to photograph these workers can be understood as a commentary on the evolving status and visibility of African Americans in the workforce, as well as how their presence was beginning to be represented in culture. Understanding this image fully requires delving into the social conditions of the time. The Library of Congress and National Archives are invaluable resources for understanding the impact of the Civil War on the lives of African Americans. What's more, we can learn about how art institutions shape our understanding of the past and present.