A carte de visite album containing 21 CDVs and one gem tintype, the album belonging to the family of the recruiter for the 54th Colored Infantry of Massachusetts, Robert R. Corson. This of course the fabled regiment portrayed in the 1989 Academy Award winning film, Glory.

Of the 21 CDVs present, at least 7 of them are photographs of Robert R. Corson, taken at various stages of life. The remainder are of his wife, in-laws, and children. There is also a single photo of an officer in full dress. It was taken in Washington D.C. during the war by Jno Holyland of Washington D.C. in front of his oft-used painting of a Civil War encampment with tents, etc., It is labeled as being that of "Uncle Robert Corson," and could perhaps be him, though younger and with no mustache. He was the "State Agent" for Massachusetts, who were at times commissioned and would thus have a dress uniform. Perhaps taken on a formal visit to D.C. to discuss recruitment or similar. 

Important images for those interested in the origins and development of the "Colored Troops" regiments. 

Early  in  February  quite  a  number  of  colored  men  were recruited  in  Philadelphia,  by  Lieut.  E.  N.  Hallowell, James  M.  Walton,  who  was  subsequently  commissioned in  the Fifty-fourth,  and  Robert  R.  Corson,  the  Massachusetts State Agent.  Recruiting  there  was  attended  with much  annoyance.  The  gathering- place  had  to  be  kept secret,  and  the  men  sent  to  Massachusetts  in  small  parties to  avoid  molestation  or  excitement.  Mr.  Corson  was obliged  to  purchase  railroad  tickets  himself,  and  get  the recruits  one  at  a  time  on  the  cars  or  under  cover  of  darkness. The  men  sent  and  brought  from  Philadelphia  went to  form  the  major  part  of  Company  B.

Spine cover lacking and sections detached. All images in an excellent state of preservation.