Type: Exhibition caption

Detail: Private Enoch Brooks of Bridgeton joined the newly-organized Third New Jersey Cavalry in January of 1864 and was mustered out of the service in August of 1865. His letters to his wife Elizabeth show that the Third Cavalry was involved in very heavy fighting during its short career with the Army of the Potomac.In this photograph, a rain protector can be seen on Brooks’ cap.

Type: Exhibition case

Name: Triumph and Tragedy

Detail: The end of the Civil War in April 1865 brought short-lived rejoicing followed by shock and grief at the assassination of President Lincoln. In New Jersey, the war ended amidst continuing political strife. As soldiers began to return home and life returned to normal, however, the election of a Republican governor heralded a new era in state politics.