Today the Second Battle of Fort Fisher commences. Unsuccessful in an attempt to take the coastal North Carolina fort last month, Union forces are better prepared this time around. The amphibious assault begins in the early morning hours and includes colored regiments. As with most all colored regiments, Baptists are well represented among the troops.…
In Washington, D.C., the debate over the 13th Amendment abolishing slavery continues. Most congressmen are of the opinion that peace is not possible without the eradication of slavery, although some Northern congressmen are as firmly convinced of the godliness of black slavery as are Southern whites. White supremacy, in short, is not confined to the…
Elijah P. Marrs, Company L, 12th U.S. Colored Artillery, experiences an adventure-filled day in Kentucky. A slave until running away mere months ago, the Union soldier and Baptist layman, his company tasked with recruiting new black soldiers, unexpectedly confronts the prospect of death at the hands of Confederate soldiers. Fortunately, the encounter takes place in…