Welcome!

Are you concerned that the ability to teach or learn about African American history is being threatened? Do you worry that some people are trying to diminish or erase the tribulations and contributions of Black men and women in United States history?

As a Civil War War historian, I am particularly troubled that there are those who downplay or dismiss the evidence about the Black soldiers and sailors who risked their lives to help preserve the United States. It is also a concern that lessons, publications, and online sources include the myth of Black Confederates as somehow equal to the actual contributions made by African Americans during the Civil War.

I hope that this website will serve as a resource to help those who are interested in preserving and learning more about the history of Black Civil War soldiers and sailors.

Frederick Pipes - African American Civil War Navy Veteran
Frederick Pipes – Civil War Navy Veteran (photo credit: NARA)

Resources that you will find here:

  • You can read transcribed letters from their white officers, the men who commanded the United States Colored Troops (USCT).
  • Resources to Learn More includes links to regimental rosters, sites for educators, an extensive list of published sources on the USCT and Black sailors, and a list of online resources.

I will continue to add information as I organize my thousands of files, images, and other sources. I have been researching the United States Colored Troops and Black men in the United States Navy for over twenty years. This website is my contribution towards making information about these men as accessible as possible.

Do you have a question about something that I have posted? Or do you have information about a specific Black soldier or sailor, African American regiment, or related event that I can add? Please feel free to contact me – I would love to hear from you.

You can also subscribe to my Substack page to read about the stories I am researching that explore specific African American soldiers and sailors who helped to win the U.S. Civil War and preserve their nation.

Thank you for stopping by!