35th U.S. Colored Troops: An American Story

Summary

This video highlights the heroic contributions of African American soldiers during the Civil War, focusing on the 35th United States Colored Troops. Through stories of figures like Sergeant William Henry Singleton and Simas Hill, it sheds light on their courage, struggles for freedom, and lasting impact on American history. The narrative emphasizes the sacrifices these soldiers made, not only in battle but also in shaping a future for their descendants. The video illustrates the deep connection between the fight for freedom and the formation of lasting legacies, offering a poignant reflection on the American story of resilience and progress.

Takeaways

• 😀 The history of North Carolina is deeply intertwined with stories of African American courage, creativity, and the fight for freedom during the Civil War.
• 😀 Abraham Galloway, an important figure in North Carolina's history, was recruited by Union generals and became involved in clandestine activities to fight for freedom.
• 😀 The 35th United States Colored Troops, originally the first North Carolina Colored Volunteers, played a crucial role in the Civil War, and their history is preserved by reenactors today.
• 😀 New Bern, North Carolina, was a significant training and mustering ground for the first North Carolina Colored Volunteers, where soldiers prepared for battle and fought for their freedom.
• 😀 Sergeant William Henry Singleton, a former slave, was instrumental in recruiting soldiers for the Colored Troops and led them with military tactics he learned during the war.
• 😀 Singleton’s leadership and bravery helped the Colored Troops gain recognition, and he later met President Abraham Lincoln to express African Americans' readiness to fight for their freedom.
• 😀 Simas Hill, born into slavery, fought with the U.S. Colored Troops and became a minister, contributing to the African American legacy of resilience and strength after the war.
• 😀 Many African American soldiers faced atrocities in battle, with few surviving the harsh conditions, yet their courage laid the foundation for future generations' rights and freedom.
• 😀 The soldiers of the first North Carolina Colored Volunteers participated in important battles like the attack on Fort Wagner and performed guard duty as part of the Union army.
• 😀 The enduring legacy of these soldiers is reflected in the continued land ownership of families like the Hill family, who have maintained their property in Jones County for over 150 years.

Q & A

Who was Abraham Galloway and what role did he play in American history?

Abraham Galloway was an African American who was recruited by Union generals and became involved in clandestine activities during the Civil War. His story is part of North Carolina's rich African American history, symbolizing courage and freedom during the conflict.

What was the significance of the 35th United States Colored Troops (USCT) during the Civil War?

The 35th USCT, originally organized as the first North Carolina colored volunteers, played a crucial role in the Civil War. They were stationed in New Bern, North Carolina, where they trained and prepared for battle, fighting for their freedom and preserving American history.

Where did the first North Carolina Colored Volunteers train and prepare for battle?

The first North Carolina Colored Volunteers, part of the 35th USCT, trained and prepared for battle in New Bern, North Carolina, on a parade ground and medical facility that became a hallowed ground for their service.

What role did reenactors play in preserving the history of the 35th USCT?

Reenactors help preserve the history of the 35th USCT by carrying the stories and names of the soldiers, ensuring that their sacrifices and bravery are remembered and honored.

Who was William Henry Singleton, and what was his contribution to the 35th USCT?

William Henry Singleton was a former slave who became First Sergeant in Company G of the 35th USCT. He played a key role in recruiting over 1,000 men to join the fight for freedom, demonstrating leadership and commitment to the cause.

What were the challenges faced by the African American soldiers in the 35th USCT?

The African American soldiers in the 35th USCT faced numerous challenges, including harsh conditions, racism, and limited resources. Despite these obstacles, they showed immense courage, particularly during battles and in maintaining military discipline.

What is the significance of the battle at Fort Wagner involving the 35th USCT?

The 35th USCT was involved in the defense of Fort Wagner, a significant moment in the Civil War where African American soldiers, alongside the Massachusetts 54th, held off Confederate forces. Their bravery contributed to the eventual success of the Union Army.

What happened to the soldiers who fought at Fort Wagner and other related battles?

Many African American soldiers who fought at Fort Wagner and similar battles were subjected to atrocities, with very few surviving the conflicts. This represents both the harsh realities they faced and their unwavering commitment to freedom.

What happened to William Henry Singleton after the war?

After the war, William Henry Singleton mustered out of service and moved to Connecticut and later New York. He became a minister and carpenter, using his skills to build homes and purchase land, which his family still owns today.

How does the legacy of the Hill family reflect the American story of freedom and resilience?

The Hill family's legacy, stemming from the bravery of their ancestors who fought in the 35th USCT, reflects the quintessential American story of overcoming adversity, achieving freedom, and creating opportunities for future generations.