Natchez honors the 3rd U.S. Colored Cavalry

NATCHEZ, Miss. – Mayor Dan Gibson visited the re-enactors for the 3rd U.S. Colored Cavalry on Thursday and presented them with a Certificate of Recognition on behalf of the City of Natchez. He also gave each of the re-enactors a lapel pin bearing the city’s seal.

Gibson was joined by Alderwoman Valencia Hall, Ward 1; Woodville Mayor Drew Pierson and his wife, Frankie; local historian Darrell White and other members of the local community.

The mayor honored the living history group for their work in telling the stories of African American soldiers who fought for freedom in the Union Army in Mississippi and other places. His visit on Thursday occurred as the group was wrapping up their Civil War encampment on the Natchez Bluff near Fort Rosalie.

Gibson thanked the re-enactors for their service, which aligns, he said, with his aim to tell the complete history of Natchez. Gibson also recognized White, whom he described as a “long time teller” of the stories of African American history in Natchez. White, one of several local re-enactors, portrayed Wilson Brown, a Union Navy sailor during the Civil War who received the Medal of Honor.

“Natchez would not be Natchez were it not for the enslaved individuals who actually built this city,” said Gibson. “We can’t go anywhere in this city without seeing their brilliance. Right across the street we have Roslie, right here, the Parsonage built by slave labor so many years ago.

“In fact, this country would not be a country if it were not for the sacrifices of those who were enslaved… This is a day were we no longer sweep this under the rug, but we tell it because it is our history.”

The day’s event was organized by Ser Seshsh Ab Heter-C. M. Boxley, coordinator of Friends of the Forks of the Roads Society. Richard Wilder, president of Buffalo Soldiers Florida Inc., led the group in their efforts to discuss the history of Black Mississippians in the Union Army.

In describing the group, Wilder said, “We are historical re-enactors and lecturers. Part of our mission statement states that we are to share the history of the USCT [United States Colored Troops] and the black regulars who were known as Buffalo Soldiers, and in order to do this, we must share and tell that history in truth and honesty, not leaving out anything.”

Wilder quoted Colonel Embury D. Osband (1832-1866), regiment commander, who reportedly said that “the name of these black horsemen struck fear in the hearts of the Confederacy.” Wilder said it is important for today’s generation and future generations to be aware of this “rich heritage.”

Gibson’s presentation included an update on the Natchez U.S. Colored Troops Monument project and the Hiram R. Revels Plaza. Together, these combined projects are called “The Forks to Freedom Park,” a name inspired by White, Gibson said.

According to White, the recognition given to African American history in Natchez has been a long time coming. “Individuals have dedicated energy and effort over the years to call attention to these untold stories,” he said. “I’m just so pleased to have been involved in this process and hoping that we can continue and carry on from this moment forward for the greatness of this community and for this nation.”