Pontoon Bridge at Deep Bottom, James River 1864

Andrew Joseph Russell's "Pontoon Bridge at Deep Bottom, James River" is a poignant photo documenting the Civil War. Taken in 1864, it depicts a scene of construction and preparation at a Union Army camp, with soldiers working near cannons and a makeshift bridge. The image captures the stark reality of wartime, showcasing the labor and technology used to support military operations. The photograph's historical significance lies in its role as a visual record of the conflict, providing insight into the lives of soldiers and the logistical challenges of the war. The stark black and white tones further emphasize the grim reality of the scene. The photograph is now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York.