Figure 1.-- This portrait of Charles Monell was taken in New Orleans, we think in 1863. He was a drummer in Compny A, 165th New YorknInfantry--a Zouave unit.

Charles Monell was a drummer boy with the 165TH New York, 2ND Battalion, Duryee Zouaves. He served most of te Civil War. He had a CDV portrait taken in his Zouave uniform. Zouave uniforms were the inspiration for boys' Zouave suits. The portait was once archived in a famiy album. Charles' home residence was not limited. He was 15 years old, I think when the portrait was taken. He first enlisted at New York City as a Musician (September 10, 1862). The 165th, the 2nd battalion, Duryea's Zouaves, was originally recruited for a 9 months' term. Even in 1862, few people undrstood how long the War would last. The unit was called Duryea's Zouaves because an officer named Duryea was responsible for forming the unit--I think Lieut.-Col. Hiram Duryea,. The enlistment was subsequently changed to 3 years. Only six companies were recruited, principally from New York city and Brooklyn, and were mustered into the U. S. service between August-December 1862, for 3years. He then mustered into "A" Co. NY 165th Infantry (November 28, 1862). The battalion left the state sailing for New Orleans (December 2, 1862). On its arrival was assigned to the 3d brigade, 2nd (Sherman's) Division, 19th corps, Department of the Gulf. Four new companies joined the battalion in the field and were consolidated with the original six companies (1864). Charles mustered Out at Charleston, SC still in the 165th Infanry (September 1, 1865). The officers were: Lieut.-Cols., Abel Smith, Jr., Governeur Carr, William R. French; Majs., Governeur Carr, Felix Angus, William W. Stephenson.