If, according to family lore passed down since the war, the story behind this wonderful “cabinet card” photograph is true, it is remarkable.
The principals are identified as Union General Philip Sheridan and his “assistant” Crosby — John Schuyler Crosby, that is. The exact location is uncertain, but likely Tennessee.
The story: That Sheridan and Crosby, while hunting for food, were forced to wait on the stoop of a Southern-leaning family’s home for that food. Considering Sheridan’s reputation, it is hard to imagine Sheridan responding so placidly to such a demand — but that’s the story.