Tintype of Sergeant Thomas Polk, Fort Sill, Indian Territory, circa 1885
Tintype studio portrait of four men, one identified as Sargent Thomas Polk of the 9th Cavalry. Uncredited: [Fort Sill, Indian Territory], n.d., circa 1885. With original paper frame, now separated from the tintype with ink inscriptions. Verso reads: "Sergent Thomas Polk. Troop / C. 9 Ud. Cavalry. Fort. Sill. / I.T." Recto reads: "Back Row Left / Wm. Tull, John Polk / Front Left / J. C. B...[illegible]." Four young men are pictured with two seated on stools with the others standing behind them, one with his hands on his friend's shoulders.
Thomas Polk is listed as a "recruit" with Co. C of the 9th Cavalry in March 1882 at Fort Sill, Indian Territory and shows up in records as late as a return from Fort Leavenworth on Sept. 5, 1892, with the same company. Notably, he returned to Fort Sill, now listed as a sergeant on the returns dated January 6, 1885. This image with three companions, one possibly his brother John, was likely taken at this time.
Condition:
Tintype - corners clipped, a small hole above the subjects (likely for a former mounting), small spot.
Paper frame - missing a large portion of the upper recto, with ink stains, chips, and creases. Residue from a previous repair.
Array
(
[live_biddable] =>
[inquire] =>
[phone] =>
[phone_bid] => 0
[sold] => 1
[unsold] =>
[make_offer] =>
[estimate] => 1
[timer] =>
[current_bid] =>
[asking_bid] =>
[start_price] => 1
[buy_it_now_price] =>
[bid_activity] =>
)
Have a Similar Item?
Consign With UsSHIPPING & PICKUPS
Cowan’s cannot guarantee items paid for after November 25 will arrive before December 25. For expedited shipping, we recommend using a third-party shipper.
Cowan’s Cincinnati Office offers an in-house, full-service shipping department which is unparalleled in the auction industry. Shipping costs are provided with your finalized invoice 24-48 hours after auction. For furniture and oversized items, we recommend using third-party services. For more information, click HERE or contact cowansshipping@hindmanauctions.com.
NOTE: All pickups and preview are by appointment only. To make an appointment, please call 513-871-1670 or email cincinnati@hindmanauctions.com