Carte-de-visite (CDV) of Joshua A. Penton, a prominent merchant who lived in Louisville, Kentucky. Shown here in a double-breasted Confederate officer's uniform, Penton is best remembered today for representing a portion of Louisville as a delegate to Kentucky's Confederate provisional congress, which passed a motion advocating secession at a convention held in November of 1861.

Records are scarce regarding his wartime activity, but one newspaper notes in late 1861 that "Major J.A Penton" helped raise six Cavalry companies of Kentuckians for the war effort. It goes on to say that Penton is "an energetic, go-ahead fellow, and being a military man, will make his mark. He has already rendered the rebel army in Kentucky essential service, securing six locomotives and a large number of cars. He has made heavy sacrifices for the cause."

Inscribed (possibly by Penton) in period ink on reverso, which also bears the imprint of photographer J.C. Elrod of Louisville, KY.

Condition is excellent.

[Civil War] [Union, Confederate]
[Antique Photography, Daguerreotype, Ambrotype, Tintype, Albumen, CDV, Cabinet Card]