| Author | Message | ||
     durandhedden Citizen Username: Durandhedden Post Number: 65 Registered: 1-2002 |
The Durand-Hedden House and Garden in Maplewood invites the public to is May program, a Civil War Muster titled "Strike the Blow for Freedom" featuring the 6th Regiment U.S. Colored Troop Reenactment group. The Emancipation Proclamation authorizing the recruitment of black troops took effect in January 1863. In a pattern that would not end until after World War II, African Americans were assigned to all-black regiments headed by white commissioned officers, and given the most arduous tasks. The historic 6th Regiment U.S. Colored Troop was organized near Philadelphia that summer. The modern re-enactment 6th Regiment troop is made up of New Jersey residents eager to uncover and understand the vital role of African Americans played in the Civil War. On Saturday, May 6th from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., the 6th Regiment reenactors will set up camp on the meadows surrounding the Durand-Hedden House, perform drills and discuss the photographs and memorabilia they will have on display. The regiment will be joined by members of the Trenton Juneteenth Committee, who will portray women camp followers, nurses and scouts. Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration of the end of slavery in the United States. |
