First Kansas

THE FIRST KANSAS WAS THE FIRST

-Kansas was admitted to the United States as a “free state” January 29, 1861.

-August 1862 the First Kansas became the very first Black Infantry in the USA with 50-enlisting at Leavenworth and 50 at Fort Scott.

-By December 1862, almost 100% of the 10-companies consisted for Freedmen (former slaves who freed themselves)

OTHER BLACK INFRANTRY BEFORE EMANCIPATION

-54th Massachusetts (as seen in the Hollywood movie Glory) began recruitment February 1863 and saw their first battle July 16, 1863.

-First South Caroline organized in late 1862; formation official January 1863.

-First, Second & Third Louisiana & Corps d'Afrique organized Fall 1862.