Serving as a regimental, division, and brigade commander in the Army of the Ohio, Turchin's command was part of the Union force that occupied portions of northern Alabama in April 1862.

In May 1862, with his troops occupying Athens, Alabama, Turchin's men went on a rampage, destroying homes and businesses in the town, ostensibly in retaliation for Confederate attacks in the area.

The "Sack of Athens" led to Turchin's court martial on charges of conduct unbecoming an officer and neglect of duty. Although found guilty on all charges, Turchin had political supporters in Illinois, where he and his wife Nadine had lived as residents of Chicago before the war, who put pressure on the War Department to assist Turchin. Instead of being punished, Turchin was promoted to Brigadier General and eventually left the service in 1864.

After the war, Turchin authored books on military history. He died in 1902.]]> Hartford's position, holding the Red River, and the Siege of Port Hudson. He also reports on the condition of Confederate troops. Farragut mentions Confederate naval movements and his plans if they prove to be a threat to the Union forces. The Siege of Port Hudson took place between May 21 and July 9, 1863, corresponding with the Siege of Vicksburg. The Confederates surrendered at Port Hudson a few days after the fall of Vicksburg. The fall of Port Hudson ensured Union control of the Mississippi River.]]>
On verso: "Rochelle, Ills; Born Feb. 10, 1858; Died Apr. 23, 1919; She married Dr. Andrew B. Elmer a dentist at Rochelle."]]>
On photo: "My mother's father and mother."

On verso: "My [ ] taken when father came home on his first furlough Galesburg, 1863; Dr. Benjamin Woodward and wife Amanda. US surgeon in US Army of 1861; Grandfather and mother of Charles V. Townley."]]>
On verso: "My grandmother, my mother's mother."]]>
On photo: "My mother's brother, soldier boy, Galesburg, IL." Mother referenced is Mary Elizabeth Woodward Townley.]]>