Vignetted albumen CDV bust portrait of Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson. [Chancellorsville, Virginia]: [D.T. Cowell], [circa April 1863]. Identification to mount recto. Modern pencil inscription “Gen. T.J. Jackson ca. April 1863 - by Daniel T. Cowell near Chancellorsville, VA.” to verso. 

As Confederate lines began to crumble under the strong Union forces being pushed against them, Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson (1824-1863) earned his nickname at the Battle of Bull Run while standing firm against Union advances. After receiving the response from Jackson that there would be no retreat, General Barnard E. Bee exhorted his own overwhelmed troops by reportedly stating, "There is Jackson standing like a stone wall. Let us determine to die here, and we will conquer. Rally behind the Virginians!"

“Stonewall” Jackson, a top-ranking graduate of West Point Military Academy, had fought in the Mexican-American War, teaching military tactics and physical science at the Virginia Military Institute. Despite familial leanings towards supporting the Union, Jackson ceded with the state of Virginia and was appointed commander in the Confederate Army. His nickname was obtained at his first big battle at Bull Run, but he would go on to engage in many notable conflicts. While his rise in battle success would continue, Jackson notably working well with General Lee, his run would be short-lived, as he would be struck down by friendly fire at the Battle of Chancellorsville in 1863. Though the wound would not kill him, pneumonia would set in, taking his life eight days later. 

This famous view depicting the resilient Confederate General was taken shortly before his death.

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