The Covid-19 pandemic has altered our lives in ways large and small, some times irrevocably, with the loss of a family member or friend. Those of us who carry on face economic and social disruption unprecedented in modern times.
The virus continues its spread and tests our mettle. As I write these words, Arlington, Va., my hometown and the location of MI, is declining in the number of reported cases and states are moving forward with a gradual, phased re-opening.
Through these times, I’ve been deeply impressed with the resilience of the photo collecting community. Your supportive email, texts, voicemails, messages and other communications underscore the best impulses of the community I’ve come to know and count myself a member. Activity on social media and virtual events has filled gaps created by the cancellation of physical shows that I trust will safely return with the good health of the nation. MI has contributed by continuing to air Military Images Live and Caretakers on Facebook, a class about how to digitize Civil War images, and more.
“The images we hold dear remain a source of strength within themselves. The men and women who stare back at us stand as a testament to the most turbulent period in our history.”
I am also grateful for your continued financial support. Each and every subscription renewal, new subscriber, advertiser and back issue purchase provides essential funds to make MI available in print and online.
Our mutual interest in Civil War image collecting is source of strength that binds us. Sharing the joy of our hobby increases that strength.
The images we hold dear remain a source of strength within themselves. The men and women who stare back at us stand as a testament to the most turbulent period in our history. You’ll find them in this issue.
Witness the officer from the 20th Maine who suffered a mortal wound on Little Round Top.
Witness the musician who found love amidst the death and destruction of Gettysburg.
Witness the artist who sculpted the statue of Abraham Lincoln standing in our Capitol.
We are the witnesses of our own time. When we look back at this global pandemic, we will no doubt remember the pain and suffering. We will also remember the happy occasions we enjoyed with family and friends—and our comrades in the collecting community. MI will be here, and, with your help, continue to deliver context, stories and amazing images.
Ronald S. Coddington
Editor & Publisher
SPREAD THE WORD: We encourage you to share this story on social media and elsewhere to educate and raise awareness. If you wish to use any image on this page for another purpose, please request permission.
LEARN MORE about Military Images, America’s only magazine dedicated to showcasing, interpreting and preserving Civil War portrait photography.
VISIT OUR STORE to subscribe, renew a subscription, and more.