Neat photo of a Union regiment

[Gfran64]

Is it just me or does it look like they are angled obliquely toward the camera? Pottsville is in Schulykill County, PA which shares a border with Northumberland Country, PA. Perhaps that is where they got the name for the camp.

Great photo!!

Greg B)

[Kerflumoxed]

Apparently Camp Northumberland was the name given by the regiment for their winter quarters in 61-62 and was located near present-day Alexandria, VA. Here is a site that provides a little information.

http://genforum.genealogy.com/civilwar/ ... 24562.html

J

[Kerflumoxed]

Gfran64 wrote:

Is it just me or does it look like they are angled obliquely toward the camera? Pottsville is in Schulykill County, PA which shares a border with Northumberland Country, PA. Perhaps that is where they got the name for the camp.

Great photo!!

Greg B)

It was quite common for the Boys of 61 to name "things" after their home area. I suspect it helped to minimize the "homesickness."

I wonder if the camera was in place prior to the formation or was brought into place as they were assembled? Whichever, you are correct that the photo is from a 3/4 angle. Also, the regiment is not parallel to the camp, either.

J