Charleston is a much different city than prior to Union-occupation. From church pulpits where biblical apologies for black slavery rang out for generations, abolitionists and Unionists now proclaim racially progressive messages and celebrate Northern victory over the Southern rebellion, even though the great conflict is not quite over just yet. To bring closure, Confederate General…
Today in the Petersburg Siege the Battle of Fort Stedman (or of Hare’s Hill) occurs, the last major attempt by the Confederates to break the long-standing siege. Although Confederate troops initially make progress in the fighting, they are soon driven back by superior Union forces. The battle thus ends as another Union victory. Although matters…
Today the New England Freedmen’s Aid Society convenes in Boston for its annual meeting. Founded on February 4, 1862, the northern, Christian-based Society provides teachers to educate freedmen. Initially based out of Port Royal, South Carolina, the Society in the ensuing years established schools in other Union-controlled areas such as the District of Columbia; Beaufort,…