30+ Rare Vintage Photos From the U.S. Civil War — #17 Blew Us Away

By Thalia Shepherd - Jan 12, 2025

The Civil War was a time marked by devastation and injury, but it also changed the face of history with events that changed the world forever. While some people would much sooner forget the events of the war, others are fascinated by its history. Let's look at some of the more infamous rare vintage photos of the U.S. Civil War and see just what life was like during the war. Buckle your seatbelts because these images might just blow you away!

Harriet Tubman

Brave Harriet Tubman was known as an abolitionist and activist who fought for women's rights in America. Born into slavery but later escaping, Harriet famously worked for the Union Army as a spy, lookout, and scout during the Civil War.

Wikimedia Commons // Harvey B. Lindsley // Public Domain

Now a household name, Harriet is most famous for leading 13 missions to rescue over 70 enslaved people from plantations and the Confederate army, using what was known as the “Underground Railroad.” How much do you know about Harriet Tubman?

From Drummer Boy to Union Soldier

Johnny Clem was one of the youngest Union soldiers to kill an enemy soldier. And in this photo taken around 1863 to 1865, you will see that Clem was nothing more than a young drummer boy and not a soldier. Clem was unfortunately captured by the Confederates after shooting a Confederate officer in battle but survived the war.

Wikimedia Commons // Unattributed // Public Domain

He later returned to active duty, where he became a general in 1915, ultimately becoming one of the last Civil War soldiers still in the American Army.

George Armstrong Custer

George Armstrong Custer is a name many people recognize, even if they don't know his face. He became famous during the Civil War as a bold cavalry leader and is even more infamous for his defeat at the Battle of Little Bighorn in 1876, now known as Custer's Last Stand.

Getty Images // Buyenlarge

But this surprising story about Custer shows a softer side that was captured in a photograph. While visiting a hospital, he spotted John W. Lea, an old friend from West Point, who was fighting for the other side. Custer didn't care about their differences and insisted on taking this photograph with him.

The Siege of Petersburg

If the soldiers in this army look bored, it's because they probably are — they have been staring at the same city for nine months without capturing it. Richmond was the heart of the Confederate cause and was chosen as their capital and stronghold, making it a prime target for the Union Army.

Getty Images // Fotosearch / Stringer

Just 30 miles away, Petersburg seemed like a small town, but it was an important one. Five railroads ended up there, supplying not only Richmond but the entire Confederate war effort, too. When the Union did attack Petersburg, they faced fierce resistance and endless defenses in a siege that lasted nine months.