[State Penitentiary, Richmond, Virginia] 1865

"State Penitentiary, Richmond, Virginia", captured in 1865 by Alexander Gardner, offers a glimpse into the stark reality of the post-Civil War era. The image showcases the prison’s imposing exterior, with its high walls and simple architecture, a testament to the harsh conditions faced by inmates at the time. Gardner, known for his documentary photography, captured the grim atmosphere of the prison, documenting the era’s social and political climate through his lens. This photograph serves as a stark reminder of the complexities of the American Civil War and its lasting impact.