Edward Kunkely (Kunkerely) (fl. circa 1859-1860)

The entire assembled body of the Utica Citizens Militia Corp., in full dress uniforms; comprised of more than 35 individual portraits of each of the members, at center a portrait of Commander McQuade, his black and white dog at his feet; two American flags, the one on the right a “Great Luminary”. In its original giltwood and gesso frame with a medallion at the base, initialed U.C.C. Signed Ed. Kunkely, Artist. Utica, N.Y. Bordered with period newspaper.

Overall excellent condition. Vibrant colors. Some soil and puckering at bottom.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

A photograph of this painting done by H. L. Mundy, circa 1883 photographer located at 11 Broad Street in Utica, exists in which the names of each of the members of the U.C.C. are inscribed. This photograph, which provides the only known identification of the members of the U.C.C., was sold on e-Bay in 2010, its present location is unknown.

Just a few years after the "Camp McQuade at Saratoga" painting of the Utica Citizens Corps (U.C.C) was completed the Civil War began.  The U.C.C. immediately volunteered and was accepted into the 14th New York Volunteer Infantry.  CampMcQuade's captain James McQuade was commissioned Colonel of the regiment.  The U.C.C. prior to the Civil War enjoyed great popularity as an independent military unit, functioning as a respected social club and provided an important military spirit for the community events and celebrations.  The U.C.C. formed in 1837, although it can be traced back to the Utica Independent Infantry in 1808 up through the modern day 107th Military Police Company.  It is one of the oldest military units in the United States.  In its remarkable history the Utica Citizens Corps lineage has proudly served the local community, the state, and nation in every major conflict from the War of 1812 to the present day.

The nucleus of the Civil War's Fourteenth regiment was the roster of the U.C.C. consisting of over 90 volunteers on the muster roll.  The U.C.C furnished at least 61 identified officers to the Union Army including six major generals.  During the War the 14th regiment and its glorious flag had been borne gallantly through eleven battles and many skirmishes and had been pierced by over 100 Rebel Bullets.  Six men had been shot while bearing it aloft and once Col. McQuade himself rushed forward with it in battle. 

The Utica Citzens Corps was truly a patriotic symbol of America with volunteer dedication and determination implicit in the motto "We Lead the Way".  This remarkable detailed painting of "Camp McQuade at Saratoga" exudes the well known spirit of this independent militia, proudly organized and ready for call.