Two 1/4 plate tintypes depicting Albert Wilbur Sturdy (1831-1913) of Attleboro, Massachusetts. Sturdy served with the 18th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment. The standing image shows him in the well-known Chasseur-a-Pied uniform. When unmatted, the image reveals more of the American flag that is draped on the table to his left along with the rifle and other fixtures. Also visible is the leg of the next sitter to have his photograph taken. While not fully legible, there is also a patent stamp on the edge of the plate. The second image shows Sturdy in the French fatigue jacket that is more frequently seen than the full Chasseur uniform. Both images are identified on the back, likely in Sturdy's own hand.
Albert Sturdy was born in Mendon, Massachusetts in 1831 and spent his early years attending school and working in the jewelry firm of his older brother. On July 23rd, 1861 he enlisted in Company I of the 18th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry. He rose in the ranks from private to corporal to Sergeant, and then to 2nd Lieutenant, ultimately becoming a 1st Lieutenant. He was wounded in the foot at Fredericksburg, which caused his discharge soon after. Sturdy returned back to civilian life and continued to work in the jewelry business.