A superb, sharply focused Civil War-era CDV of Major William T. Asson, a Union Paymaster with the U.S. Volunteers Paymaster’s Department. The image shows Asson in full uniform, wearing a wide-brimmed slouch hat and officer’s cape, presenting a confident and composed presence. His neatly groomed beard and steady gaze underscore the professional image of a Union officer tasked with one of the war's most vital support roles.

This CDV is backmarked by renowned Washington, D.C. photographer Henry Ulke, 278 Pennsylvania Avenue. The original album page from which the image was removed bears a period ink identification of “Maj. W. T. Asson.” Also included is a modern transcription of Asson’s service record: He was born in South Carolina and commissioned on May 28, 1864, serving as a Major and Additional Paymaster until mustering out in January 1866. Despite his Southern origins, he served faithfully in the Union cause—an interesting twist in itself.