Although I had known about the “Marching Song of the 1st Arkansas,” which was written in 1864 and was sung to the tune of “John Brown’s Body” (or the Battle Hymn of the Republic) – I had not known that … Continue reading →
Samuel Brooks was one of the men from the 1st Arkansas (later renamed the 46th U.S. Colored Infantry) captured at Mound plantation in late June 1863. Companies E and G were posted high on an Indian mound, and were overtaken … Continue reading →
Although not present at the battle of Milliken’s Bend on June 7, 1863, the story of the 1st Arkansas Infantry, African Descent (later renamed the 46th U.S. Colored Infantry or USCI) nevertheless is essential in the larger narrative of events … Continue reading →
This Veterans’ Day, I’d like to remember Calvin Freeman. I know he was a Milliken’s Bend veteran, and served with the 11th Louisiana Infantry, African Descent (later renamed the 49th U.S. Colored Infantry). But that’s about all I know. I … Continue reading →
Earlier this week, it was announced that former Vicksburg mayor Robert M. Walker passed away on Tuesday, July 29, 2025. I had the honor and pleasure to interview him for my book, in which he told me more about the … Continue reading →
