This article from Minnesota History magazine focuses on this picture and the story of the regiment featured in it. The photograph was taken on May 21, 1861, soon after the First Minnesota Regiment was organized and before they traveled east to fight for the Union. The article focuses on a few individuals, including DeWitt Smith. Smith organized the soldiers for the photograph, and the ambrotype was left in the hands of his wife, Melissa, when the regiment headed off to war. 

Most Minnesota History articles are at a higher reading level and are likely most suited for adults.