Built at Boston, Mass., and commissioned in 1862, the Genesee was a 1120 ton, double ender, sidewheel steam gunboat. In 1862, she served off the coast of North Carolina, and in February 1863 was assigned to the West Gulf Blockading Squadron. She was damaged by gunfire on March 14-15, 1863, while attempting to run the Confederate guns at Port Hudson, La. She continued to serve on the Mississippi River until being sent to Mobile Bay, Ala., and in September 1863, helped destroy the Confederate blockade runner, "Fanny." In August 1864, she served during the battle of Mobile Bay, and later did mine clearing duty in the bay.

Wet plate, albumen carte de visite photograph, mounted to 2 3/8 x 4 card. No backmark. Age toning and wear. There is a vertical crease at right edge of the card at at upper left corner. Period ink ID on the mount.