TRENTON: Celebrate Black History Month with The Old Barracks Museum! Come hear about the brave African American soldiers that helped shape our nation’s history! Learn about the integral role they played in our military, from the early days of our nation’s infancy all the way up to World War II! Meet the dedicated reenactors and living historians who will be exhibiting throughout the day, sharing their knowledge and passion about African American military history. Represented regiments will include The Harlem Hellfighters of WWI, the 6th Regiment USCT of the Civil War, the 369th Regiment portrayed Ebony Doughboys, and others. You will not want to miss this unique and educational experience, great for the entire family!
Included in regular cost of admission. $5 admission for residents of Trenton.
Call (609) 396-1776 for more details.
Sponsored by Trenton Historical Society & Mercer County
Events throughout the day
Saturday, February 29:
11am – “Stories of the 54th”, Sergeant Major Louis Carter Jr. 54th Mass. Vol. Reg., Co. B
Reenactor MSG Lou Carter shares the true stories of the famous 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Regiment that was featured in the movie “Glory”.
1:15pm – “They Were Good Soldiers”, Mr. John Rees
Historian John U. Rees discusses the contributions of African American Soldiers in the Continental Army from his book “They Were Good Soldiers”.
2:15pm – “The 5th Platoon”, Sgt. Arthur Collins Sr.
US Marine Corps Veteran and Reenactor Sgt. Art Collins recalls the exploits of the Black GI’s who served during World War II.
3pm – Four Centuries of African American Soldiers Firing Line
Four Centuries of African American Soldiers fire a salute to the fallen heroes who faithfully served in the Armed Forces of the United States.
Sunday, March 1:
11am – “Ebony Doughboys in The Great War”, Kelly Washington, Ebony Doughboys
Reenactor Kelly Washington shares the stories of African American soldiers in World War I.
1:15pm “Black Jacks” – Leon B. Brooks Sr., 1st Rhode Island Regiment
US Navy Veteran and Reenactor Leon B. Brooks tells the saga of America’s Black Sailors.
2:15pm “Trenton’s Harlem Hellfighter”, Algernon Ward Jr., Ebony Doughboys
Reenactor Algernon Ward Jr. tells the story of one of the first Americans decorated for Valor in World War I, Trenton’s own hero, Neadom Roberts.
3:15pm – Four Centuries of African American Soldiers Firing Line
Four Centuries of African American Soldiers fire a salute to the fallen heroes who faithfully served in the Armed Forces of the United States.
