7th New York State Militia at Camp Cameron (Meridian Hill) in Washington DC, May 1861. An African American, possible a camp servant, is in the foreground.

The 7th New York State Militia was one of the first units rushed to Washington DC to defend the capital. The unit arrived on April 25, 1861, taking up residence at the Capitol Building before being ordered to Camp Cameron near Georgetown on May 2nd. The regiment was mustered out of service in June 2, 1861.