A race for camp
1861-1876
Edwin Forbes captured the frantic energy of Civil War life in this lively sketch from the 1860s, part of his famous series documenting the Union Army. The handwritten note 'An extra: The race for camp' suggests this was a quick, spirited observation of daily life. On the left, soldiers relax by a rustic log cabin, with one kneeling figure waving enthusiastically at the approaching riders. Meanwhile, three cavalrymen on horseback are galloping down a dirt road, whips raised high as they compete. It's a rare glimpse of camaraderie and competition amidst the grim reality of war, showing that even soldiers needed a little excitement.