Description
Palmore sat for this ambrotype in the uniform of the Cumberland Light Dragoons (Cumberland Troop). He saw Civil War service in the 53rd VA, so he evidently did not enlist in the 3rd VA Cavalry with many of the men of the Cumberland Troop. Palmore family letters in the University of Virginia Special Collections Library confirm that Charles was a member of the Cumberland Troop in 1860-1861. Charles’ parole is also in the University of Virginia collection. It identifies him to Co. A, 53rd VA and dates his parole to April 14, 1865 in Farmville, VA. A picture of three members of the Cumberland Troop is published in the H. E. Howard Virginia Regimental series history of the 3rd VA Cavalry by Nanzig. The men are wearing uniforms identical to Palmore’s. The photograph identifies the Cumberland Troop as part of the Virginia State Militia, so the image is likely pre-war.
The image of Palmore is ID’d on the case, and includes references to family members. Palmore was born in 1831-1832 and died on March 25, 1896. He is buried at the Allen cemetery, Oak Grove Farm, Cumberland County, VA.
