Support provided by:
The Case:
A couple of stamp enthusiasts found far more than stamps in a box they purchased. In the box, along with Civil War era stamps, we find letters addressed to a William Blackford, Senate Post, Washington, D.C.
One letter appears to be from his brother, John Blackford. In the letter John asks for help securing an officer position in an African American unit. A second letter informs William Blackford that his brother, John, has been wounded.
Why would John Blackford want to command an African American unit?
Did he survive his wounds and did he ever receive the commission?
History Detectives investigates.
More Information
African American Civil War Memorial and Museum
1200 U Street Northwest
Washington D.C., DC 20009-4443
(202) 667-2667
http://www.afroamcivilwar.org/
The Kansas State Archives and Historical Society
6425 SW 6th Avenue
Topeka KS 66615-1099
785-272-8681
http://www.kshs.org/
Poison Springs State Historic Park
Ark Hwy 76
Camden, AR 71722
http://www.arkansasstateparks.com/poisonspring/
Civil War Battle: After Action Reports
Related Content
Technique:
Feature:
Feature:
Technique:
Related Links
Explore
-
Related Investigation
Face Jug
What does this ceramic face reveal about the Middle Passage and a captive people’s search for identity?
-
Related Investigation
Civil War Soldier Photo
Is this the photo of a Civil War soldier actually a woman in disguise?
-
Also in Civil War: 1850-1877
Old Fire Station
Did President Ulysses S. Grant stop by a New Jersey firehouse on the centennial of America?
-
Also in Civil War: 1850-1877
Lee Family Doll
Did this doll belong to a former slave of General Robert E. Lee?
-
Also in Season 9
WB Cartoons
What can this curious artwork tell us about some of our most beloved cartoon characters?
-
Also in Civil War: 1850-1877
Civil War POW Photos
Were these pictures made in a Civil War prison with a home-made camera?
Comments
This is a place for opinions, comments, questions and discussion; a place where viewers of History Detectives can express their points of view and connect with others who value history. We ask that posters be polite and respectful of all opinions. History Detectives reserves the right to delete comments that don’t conform to this conduct. We will not respond to every post, but will do our best to answer specific questions, or address an error.
Anyone wishing to submit an artifact for investigation should do so through Submit a Story.
- Submit your StoryDo you have a Civil War object? Submit your story now.
- Latest CommentI am tremendously happy i have come across this particular website. (14 hours ago)
- TwitterHappy Birthday, Bob Dylan! 71-y o today. Our premiere episode explores the Dylan guitar that changed R&R history. July 17, 9p/8p C. Watch! (2 days ago)
- FacebookIt wasn't until I sat in a class taught by Inez Turley at Mesa Community College that the study of the past became a passion for me. Who was the teacher that inspired you? --Eduardo (2 days ago)