Ruins at end of Richmond and Petersburg Railroad Bridge, Richmond 1861 - 1865

"Ruins at end of Richmond and Petersburg Railroad Bridge, Richmond" is a poignant photograph by Alexander Gardner, taken during the American Civil War. The image depicts the destruction of the railroad bridge and surrounding buildings, a stark reminder of the war's impact on infrastructure and civilian life. The debris-strewn foreground emphasizes the scale of the devastation, while the figures in the middle ground add a human element to the scene. This photo is a powerful example of photojournalism, capturing the raw reality of war for a contemporary audience.