Harvard Graduation Portrait for Lewis Stackpole Dabney, 2nd Massachusetts Cavalry Regiment, Signed

Harvard Graduation Portrait for Lewis Stackpole Dabney, 2nd Massachusetts Cavalry Regiment, Signed. This image was taken just before his graduation from Harvard in 1862, and also included is a later image of him.

The format for this photo is identical to another listing for Henry P. Bowditch, who graduated from Harvard the year before. Each of these men were well acquainted, both being of old “Boston Brahmin Families.” The Harvard albumen is mounted within an oval vignette with his signature written below. They measure 9.5 x 13 inches, and the small is unmounted one is 3 7/8 x 5 1/2 inches.  His signature includes his place of birth, “Fayal Azores.”  Born in Portugal. The family came to New England in the early 1800’s and established mercantile and shipping busines.

Lewis Stackpole Dabney enlisted on November 11, 1862 and was commissioned into Co. B, 2nd Massachusetts Cavalry. During his time in service, discharged in January of 1865, he had risen to the rank of captain. During his service, the 2nd Mass Cavalry was engaged in the defenses of Washington, and Northern Virginia, and then given the task of hunting down the Confederate Rangers under the command of Col. John S. Mosby.

His legal background lead to his appointment as Brigade Judge Advocate.  In the summer of 1864, the regiment was assigned to Phil Sheridan’s Cavalry Corps in the Shenandoah Valley Campaign, and was part of the Union victories at Winchester, Fisher’s Hill, and Cedar Creek battles.

A fine lot in the same condition.