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African American Civil War Memorial

The African American Civil War Memorial in Washington, DC, transferred to the NPS in November 2004, is the nation's only monument to all the United States Colored Troops (USCT). The names of more than 209,000 white officers and black soldiers are inscribed on the Wall of Honor beside the "Spirit of Freedom" sculpture by Ed Hamilton. This Memorial is significant to "resistance to enslavement through flight" because many members of the over 200,000 USCT joined up directly from enslavement. Horton estimates half of those serving in the USCT. The Memorial is a tribute to the bravery of these troops. McPherson estimates 37,300 died. 17 soldiers and 4 sailors received Congressional Medals of Honor. Runaways became automatically free upon joining the army, but they also fought for the freedom of their families and all enslaved African Americans. Because of the list of USCT on the wall, compiled from National Archives records, this memorial is the only place to commemorate all the soldiers who were refugees from slavery.

Visitor Information: Currently open to public.

Location: 1000 U St., NW, Washington, N/A, 20009

National Park Unit: Yes

Ownership: Superintendent National Mall

Location Type: Site

People/Organizations Associated with the site: Civil War