Photographer Thomas C. Roche.

[Robert Gray]

Photographer Thomas C. Roche (1826–1895) poses by a bombproof shelter at Fort Sedgwick in the Petersburg siege lines. In 1858, Roche became interested in photography and was listed as an agent at 83 South St. in Brooklyn, New York. In 1862 he went to work for E. & H. T. Anthony & Company. Over the years, Roche was Anthony's principal photographer and senior advisor and one of their most valuable assets, developing many patents for the company's products and processes. Roche is probably best known for, and counts among his many accomplishments, the roughly 50 stereoviews taken on April 3, 1865 following the fall of Petersburg, Virginia. These include the "death studies", at least 20 stereoviews of the dead, allegedly taken inside Fort Mahone. After the war, Roche returned to work for the Anthonys, with whom he published a book on photography.

Wikipedia
Library of Congress image (02582u)

 

[lupaglupa]

These are really clear photos for the time. Thanks for sharing.

 

[mofederal]

It is nice to see a photograph taken of a photographer in the field. A nice clear image of the man and field clothing. I like seeing the soldier's sack coats. Some appear to be just issued just a short time earlier. Also it is interesting to see where the soldier's natural waist falls, some high and some lower. A lot of detailed items in the photo.

 

[Robert Gray]

Here's another stereoview of Roche that has been brought to my attention. It is in the Library of Congress digital collection.

 

[Skilledhunter]

What are those little rods they guys in the back all have ?

 

[JOHN42768]

Superior quality era photographs

 

[Robert Gray]

What are those little rods they guys in the back all have ?

Looks like ramrods.

 

[Skilledhunter]

Maybe but why? After thinking about it..and seeing what they are building my guess is it's some sort of ground penetration probe to test the density of the soil. Since you are building and artillery proof shelter you want to make sure the ground is packed hard enough.

 

[jackt62]

Great photos!