Restoring History: Unearthing the Stories of Forgotten Black Veterans in Gettysburg

At the edge of a busy emergency room parking lot in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, lies the historic Lincoln Cemetery, a resting place for more than 30 Civil War veterans and numerous Black Americans whose stories remain untold. Established in 1867, two years after the end of the Civil War, this cemetery stands in contrast to the nearby Gettysburg National Cemetery, where President Abraham Lincoln designated burial grounds for Union troops.

The veterans interred at Lincoln Cemetery were members of the US Colored Troops (USCT), a unit primarily composed of Black soldiers who played crucial roles in the Civil War. Despite their service and sacrifice, these individuals were denied burial in the whites-only military cemetery.

The Lincoln Cemetery Preservation Association (LCPA), in collaboration with Gettysburg College and the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, is leading efforts to restore and honor the legacy of these forgotten individuals. Through groundbreaking work like ground-penetrating radar surveys, the society seeks to shed light on the lives of those buried in unmarked graves.

While none of the buried veterans fought at Gettysburg, archival records provide glimpses into their stories. From Edward Armor to Latimore Wilson, these individuals—once integral to their communities—now rest in obscurity, awaiting their tales to be unearthed and preserved for posterity.

Ben Green, President of the LCPA, reflects on the historical segregation that extended even beyond death, emphasizing the poignant struggles faced by these Black soldiers who fought for a nation that failed to honor their contributions.

As gatekeepers of history, the LCPA envisions not just a restored Lincoln Cemetery, but a living memorial that pays tribute to the resilience and valor of those who faced discrimination in life and death.

Walking amidst the solemn grounds of Lincoln Cemetery, Jodie Frealing, a descendant of resilient figures like Betty Dorsey Myers, finds solace in honoring her heritage and preserving the memory of those who paved the way for future generations.