Preserving history is a noble pursuit that allows us to connect with our past and gain valuable insights into the lives of those who came before us. My most recent acquisition of a Civil War Uniform belonging to Albert M. Tyler is a remarkable find. As many things over the years loose finite details that once were known. The quest to rediscover the lost tidbits begins.
Albert M. Tyler, a distinguished figure from the American Civil War, served with honor in the 27th New York Infantry Company D and later with the 121st New York Infantry rising to the rank of Captain. His legacy is encapsulated in a remarkable collection that includes a signed Carte de Visite (CDV) capturing his image alongside key pieces of his uniform including his captain shoulder boards. The focal point of this collection is Tyler's Federal Frock Coat, a distinctive garment worn during the American Civil War. This coat, with its beautifully detailed eagle buttons and tailored design, stands as a piece of history captured in time. The rich history embedded in each stitch tells a story of sacrifice and duty. Accompanying the Frock Coat is Tyler's Kepi, a cap worn by soldiers during the Civil War. The Kepi, marked with the insignia US and a distinct corp badge. The ensemble is completed with a Vest and Officers Sash. The vest, worn beneath the Frock Coat, adds another layer to this amazing grouping. The Officers Sash, worn horizontally across the waist, denotes his rank and authority on the battlefield. This collection not only serves as a tangible connection to the past but also as a tribute to the countless individuals like Albert M. Tyler who valiantly served their country during a tumultuous period in history. Captain Tyler served the entirety of the American Civil War finding himself involved in some of the most notable battles of the war including Gettysburg, Cold Harbor, Petersburg and the battle Cedar Creek where his regiment suffered significant casualtys with 11 men KIA, 33 wounded, and 2 captured. Tyler would receive the Brevet rank of Major for his meritorius service at the battle of Winchester and Brevet LT. Colonel for his gallant service at the Battle of Sailor’s Creek Virginia. At the battle of Winchester Tyler would be wounded through the left hand the bullet entering in the base of the middle and fore fingers exiting near the wrist. Captain Tyler would serve until being discharged from Military service on July 21, 1865 in Virginia. Though the struggle of the War was over for Capt. Tyler the period of reconstruction soon ensued. Leaving New York Tyler embarked on his journey to St. Louis, Missouri. Arriving in the City in late 1865 Tyler began practicing law which he had practiced prior to the conflicts onset. A love for Missouri and the Union helped prompted Col. Tyler into serving as the Secretary of the Missouri Republican committee. With his distinguished service it would lead Gov. McClurg to appoint Col. Tyler as the member of the Board of Police Commissioners. Albert M. Tyler was a member of the Wide Awakes adding an intriguing layer to the historical narrative surrounding his life. The Wide Awakes were a political organization that emerged during the 1860 United States presidential campaign, known for their distinctive and visually striking uniforms. Committed to supporting the Republican Party and its candidate, Abraham Lincoln, the Wide Awakes played a unique role in the political landscape of the time. Albert M. Tyler's affiliation with this group suggests a deep commitment to political activism during a pivotal period in American history. This could be seen even in his post war life. Per a Atchison Daily Free Press article dated December 11, 1867 a letter from Tyler was published in which he speaks of Woman's and African American suffrage.
"A copy of The Weekly Press forwarded from St. Louis reached me this inst. Aside from the interest and pleasure I experienced in its perusal, it also gratified me as a token of your kind and continued remembrance. Traveling, as I am, in a strange land, and among strangers, it is, I find, extremely hard to endure the want of association with old friends,-but it would be still harder to endure the thought that they had forgotten me. I therefore feel grateful not only for your paper, but for your friendly remembrance also. And while I cannot reciprocate in kind the former, I beg to assure you that the latter favor is reciprocated by me most heartily. Previous to my leaving St. Louis in September last, and while regularly in re-ceipt of your paper, I observed with much interest your earnest and faithful advocacy of the cause of Negro and Woman Suffrage in Kansas. And I especially regretted the defeat of the first proposition. I not only knew that it was a serious disappointment to you, but I also felt that it was a State and National calamity. But the advocates of Manhood Suffrage have no good reason for discouragement. Freedom was a long time withheld from the black men, but they got it at last; so will they have the ballot, not only in Kansas, but wherever any American citizen has it."
Col. Tyler remained active in post-war politics and efforts to recover bodies of Union dead. Spending time near Rolla, Missouri in February of 1868 removing bodies buried during the war to honorable burial sites. Venturing West Col. Tyler would spend time time in Kansas looking at possible investment ventures earning a good many friends along the way. Specifically Tyler enjoyed the town of Manhattan, KS where he spent the majority of his time while visiting.
Returning to Missouri Albert continued to be involved with the political scene even running for mayor of the town of Hillsboro, Missouri in 1878. He was narrowly defeated by his opponent W. A. White. Though defeated Tyler would serve as the president on the De Soto Congressional Republican Club soon after. The life of A. M. Tyler would come to a tragic end in February of 1880 when he would die of Consumption. His wife would only live a few years after his tragic death. With no living heirs the estate was sold with all their belongings. Through good fortune Capt. Tylers Uniform and other belongings survived the test of time and was purchased by Koltin Massie to be preserved and history rediscovered. A history well worth remembering.
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