
The ACWM Presents the Pop-Up Exhibition

On January 1, 1863, Abraham Lincoln’s Final Emancipation Proclamation authorized “persons of suitable condition, will be received into the armed service of the United States.” As a result, the regiments of the United States Colored Troops (USCT) were formed, and the fight to save the Union also became their fight for citizenship. During the last two years of the war, these regiments led by white officers, fought in numerous actions, and major battles. More than 185,000 men served in the USCT by the war’s end, making up about 10% of the Union Army.
The artifacts featured in Beyond Valor have never been on display, and are either directly connected to the regiments involved in the Battle of Forks Road or are items that were typically used by USCT soldiers. Objects directly associated with USCT soldiers are exceedingly rare.
Beyond Valor is a result of a collaboration with the Cameron Art Museum (CAM) Boundless art installation and the call for descendants of the 1st, 5th, 10th, 27th, and 37th USCT who fought in the Battle of Forks Road in February of 1865, where the CAM stands today. At this intersection of art and history, the Museum highlights the stories that embody the bravery and agency of the United States Colored Troops.
Unveiling the Untold:
USCT & Their Legacies
June 20th @ 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM • ACWM-Tredegar

Join us at ACWM-Tredegar on June 20th at 6:30 pm for an insightful program that offers the unique opportunity to reflect upon the personal narratives of USCT soldiers and their descendants. Their personal stories, both during and after the war, offer invaluable insight into the struggles, triumphs, and contributions of African Americans throughout our history.
With over 185,000 Black men serving in the United States Army, the United States Colored Troops (USCT) acts of bravery and perseverance have left an indelible mark on American history. What lessons can we learn from the personal stories of USCT soldiers and their descendants? Prepare to be enlightened and inspired as we unpack the rich heritage of USCT soldiers and their descendants.

Holly Pinheiro, Ph.D., Distinguished Assistant Professor of African American History in the Department of History at Furman University. Dr. Pinheiro’s expertise and passion for this subject will provide a captivating perspective on the agency of USCT soldiers and the enduring impact of their descendants.

Emmanuel Dabney, Museum Curator at Petersburg National Battlefield, Emmanuel Dabney will offer his extensive knowledge of the battlefields that USCTs were present and their historical significance. Mr. Dabney will also shed light on the profound individual contributions made by USCT soldiers in the context of the war.