Appeared on eBay sold by black-dog-antiques
This is truly an interesting group of photos. These cabinet cards came out of an estate in Lehigh Valley, PA. The gentleman who once owned this estate was a performing magician. He also had a vast collection of magic / Circus / sideshow / Hollywood memorabilia & military collectibles. What is so great about these photos is that the man in the pictures, William Smith was not only an infantry soldier in the Civil War (or perhaps - Spanish American War - I am sure you military buffs will know & if so please let me know ) BUT also a Circus performer - A contortionist to be exact. In one photo he is in his Undress Uniform (with the kepi that has the brass rifle insignia on it.) He appears to be a bit younger in this photo then in the others. On the back of this photo it reads WM. Smith Co. TI. 3rd. W.S. Infantry - Fort Snelling Minn. Undress Uniform. In three of the other photos he is in peculiar contorted positions & in his circus costume. These pictures were produced in San Antonio, Texas. Then in the last (large size photo measuring 8" x 10" ) is what I believe is an encampment photo. At the base it reads, Left Platoon, Light Battery "K" 1st U.S. Artillery. Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio Texas...1898. In this picture there is a whole troop of military men - in uniform & kepi's. Some of them hold flags, guns, jorns, etc...there are also two dogs, & 1 military contortionsit doing a split right at the bottom center of the photograph. What a strnge and fantastic grouping. All of the pictures are in excellent condition. The images are crisp & bright. Questions always welcome Feel free to e-mail me at georgisol@aol.com. Buyer to pay shipping and insurance. Check out our website at Black Dog Antiques for our other interesting auctions and our e-Bay terms of sale. Thanks for looking!!!