2 1/4 x 3 1/2 in. CDV on cardstock mount (spotting to image and mount, some toning and fading to print, slight surface abrasion to top edge of print and mount, light edge wear to mount). A studio view of Kady Brownell (1842-1915) dressed in Zouave uniform, holding a carbine. Identification and service record printed on verso. 

Brownell, nee Southwell, was born in an army camp on the coast of Africa, but when her mother died shortly after her birth, she moved to Providence, RI, and was raised by family friends. In the early 1860s, Kady worked as a weaver in the mills, where she met and fell in love with Robert Brownell. In 1861, with the start of the Civil War, Robert joined the 1st Rhode Island Infantry, and Kady was determined to enlist with him. After some convincing, Kady went with Robert, and she became the unofficial color bearer for the 1st RI. Following their 3-month enlistment with the 1st RI, the Brownells enlisted in the 5th RI Battalion. Kady was appointed a nurse and "Daughter of the Regiment." Her war record includes the 1st Battle of Bull Run and Battle of Newbern.