Photographs of Richmond made by C. R. Rees during the Civil War.

These are the only outdoor photographs known to have come out of Richmond during the war (pre-1865). Doubtless, Rees made other photos during the war, but since his gallery burned in the evacuation fire (at 145 Main street, according to the 1860 City Directory), the only surviving photos are those which had been extensively sold, and probably even smuggled North. To my knowledge, these six images are the only wartime Richmond photographs.

Written Accounts

"Charles R. Rees
Active as a daguerreian, Richmond, Va., and New York City, N.Y. In 1851 he was listed as a daguerreian at the corner of 8th and Main Streets, Richmond, in business as Rees Brothers, with C.J. Rees. This is probably the same Charles Rees listed from 1853 to 1855 in New York City. In 1853-1854 he was listed at 289 Broadway, in business as Rees & Co. He refused to divulge information on other partnership members for the partnership directory. In 1854-1855 he was listed as Rees & Co. at 385 Broadway, and also at 289 Broadway. Stamped on the brass mat of a ninth plate daguerreotype, "Rees & Co. 289 Broadway". He was noted as opening the new gallery in 1854. About 1853, Holmes was noted as working for or being a part of the company. In 1859 Rees was listed as Rees & Co., ambrotype gallery, 139 Main Street, Richmond. He may have employed Edward (Edwin) Rees, who boarded at his home. W.G.R. Frayser may also have been part of the firm. There is also a listing for "T.R. Rees", probably Charles R., with a gallery at 145 Main Street, Richmond, in 1860. Information corrected to November, 1997; © 1996, 1997 John S. Craig"- from Craig’s Daguerreian Registry

Military Service:

T. B. Rees: 1^st Virginia State Reserves, Co. H
Enl. 5/29/1862 in Richmond, age 24

Page last updated on 04/28/2008