Construction Details

Photographers took pictures of things around them. Most were related to the war, and efforts to supply the troops. 

As a result, we have the first detailed photographs of contrivances like locomotives and bridges.
Civil War bridges

  Crossing Rivers
The Civil War is the first war during which large bodies of troops are moved by train. Rivers are significant obstacles for both armies and trains. Military engineers quickly become involved in strengthening existing bridges, and creating new ones. The long bridge at right is a predecessor of today's Chain Bridge, in Washington.

Locomotives at Nashville, Tennessee, 1864

  Locomotives at Nashville, Tennessee
Locomotives of the US Military Railroad waiting to depart the bustling depot in Nashville, which has just been captured


Ferry Across the Potomac River, Civil War

  Ferry Across the Potomac River
A ferry crossing the Potomac River at Georgetown, being hauled by a cable. What looks like a bridge in the background is actually the canal aqueduct discussed in the previous photo.