After the Civil War veterans organizations, such as the Grand Army of the Republic were formed. These organizations enabled veterans to share stories of the war and maintain connections with each other. At the community level these organizations were called "Posts." This photograph likely shows the Goodwin Post #32 of St. Albans at the annual GAR encampment at Camp Benson in Newport.

In 1881, Goodwin Post #32 was organized, in St. Albans, by R. L. Howard. It began with 15 members and Calvin Bigelow was named the 1st Commander. The Post was named for George W. Goodwin, who enlisted on August 29, 1862 and died at Falmouth Virginia on December 30, 1862, at the age of 23.

Stamped on the back of the postcard is "W. H. Howe, Photographer, Pittsfield, Maine."