Born in Newton, Mass; Francis was a 39-year-old student when he enlisted on May 26^th, 1862 as a Major. The next day, he was commissioned into Field and Staff of the 4^th Massachusetts Battalion of Infantry.  By September 12^th, 1862, he was commissioned into the field and staff of the 44^th Massachusetts Infantry as a full Colonel.

According to official records, he mustered out of service on June 18^th, 1863 at Readville, Massachusetts.

He died in Westport, NY on September 2^nd, 1886.

The nicely contrasted photo shows the bearded officer with full sword belt and fine officer’s sword.  His junior officer’s frock and ‘private purchase’ forage cap with embroidered infantry badge are detailed clearly.

The reverse is marked in pencil “COL. FRANCIS LEE 4^TH MASS INF. BAT. AND 44^TH MASS INFANTRY” and features a beautiful an engraved-style logo and photographer mark that reads,

“J.E. Tilton & Co

MANUFACTURERS AND IMPORTERS OF PHOTOGRAPH ALBUMS & CARTE DE VISITE

161 Wash.n St. Boston

PHOTOGRAPHED BY BLACK.”

A rare photographer’s backmark on a rare commander’s picture make this a highly desirable piece for the Civil War collector.  [cm][ph:L]

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