Very nice clean clear image of Martin E. Harmstead in the uniform of an Army Chaplain. He is posed with one arm leaning on a podium. He wears a dark frock coat with cloth covered buttons and no insignia. The coat is open to reveal a matching dark vest, which also has cloth covered buttons, and trousers.

The reverse has a photographer’s imprint for F. GUTEKUNST…PHILADELPHIA. Below the imprint is a wonderful bold flowing ink inscription that reads “YOURS TRULY M. E. HARMSTEAD – CHAPLAIN 5^TH PENNA. CAVLY.”

Image is very clear with excellent contrast. Mount has only the lightest of surface dirt.

Rev. Martin E. Harmstead was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on October 19, 1829. He was commissioned Chaplain in the 4^th New Jersey Infantry on May 9, 1861. After serving three months in Virginia the regiment was mustered out at Trenton, New Jersey on July 31, 1861.

Five months later on December 31, 1861 Harmstead was commissioned Chaplain of the 5^th Pennsylvania Cavalry. During Harmstead’s service with the regiment it was in 74 skirmishes and engagements to include Williamsburg, Parker’s Store, Petersburg, Darbytown Road, Reams Station, Charles City Crossroads.  Sometime in late 1864 or early 1864 he became ill and returned home where he died on February 1, 1865.

A short on-line biography reads:

“Martin E. Harmstead was born in Philadelphia, October 19, 1829. He commenced life as a Bookseller and Stationer and afterwards became a Methodist minister. During the War of the Rebellion he served as Chaplain in the Union Army. His first appointment was to the Chaplaincy of the 4th Regiment of New Jersey Volunteers, under the call of the President of the United States, issued April 15, 1861.

After his term of service under that call had expired, he received the appointment of Chaplain of the 5th Regiment of Pennsylvania Cavalry which position he held until disease brought on by exposure in the discharge of his duties compelled him to return home where he died February 1, 1865. He was aged 35 years, 3 months and 13 days. His wife remains a widow.”

Rev. Harmstead was buried in Laurel Hill Cemetery, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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