Dated Detroit, MI, 29 November  1864.  Standard “To Whom It May Concern” government discharge form…stating that Private Smith Munger enlisted  in Captain Aker’s Company “I”, 1^st Michigan Cavalry, on 22 August 1861 and was discharged from service 29 November 1864 by reason of expiration of terms of service.  The discharge notes that Munger was a native of Dutchess County, NY, was 28 years of age, 6’ 1.25” in height, of dark complexion, blue eyes, dark hair, and by occupation a carpenter.

Accompanied by cabinet card image of Munger, 8.75 x 4.75”; a standing shot of the subject, against studio backdrop, depicting him in forage style kepi, shell jacket, holding his unsheathed saber before him, with a Remington revolver tucked in his belt.  While clear and clean, this image is cracked across the upper portion, w/taped backing support.  Accompanied by two images OF an older solder—“Uncle Ed Munger”—wearing post-war kepi and uniform w/sergeant stripes; and an image of an unidentified man in civilian in 19^th century “Shriner” regalia w/sword.

Organized in August 1861, this Michigan cavalry unit saw extensive service in the eastern,  Virginia theater of war from beginning to end. Following the 1865 Grand Review in Washington, it was posted to Ft. Leavenworth, Kansas, and was involved in operations against Plains Indians, and eventually mustered out in March 1866. During service it lost 164 men killed or mortally wounded (unusually high for a cavalry unit) and 250 by disease for a total of 414. An illustrious veteran unit. Invites further research. In protective sleeve. Superb collectible.  [JP]

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