(1804-75) Graduated in the West Point class of 1823. He served in the campaigns against the Florida Seminoles and in the Mexican War. From 1853 to 1861, he served as chief of staff to the commander-in-chief of the U. S. Army, General Winfield Scott. In August 1861, Thomas became adjutant general of the Union army with rank of brigadier general. In 1863 he organized and raised negro troops in the Military Departments of Louisiana and Mississippi.

Wet plate, albumen carte de visite photograph, mounted to 2 3/8 x 4 card. Full standing view wearing double breasted frock coat with epaulettes, eagle sword belt plate, and holding Hardee hat with cloth U.S. hat wreath insignia, pinned up at the side with Jeff Davis hat plate, and holding his sword. Backmark: E. & H.T. Anthony, New York, made from a photographic negative in Brady's National Portrait Gallery. Light age toning. Sharp image. Very desirable pose.