Capital Protectors

Capital Protectors. The 107th USCT at Fort Ethan Allen. , Fort Ethan Allen witnessed the dramatic social change brought on by the war. In late 1865, the 107th United States Colored Troops (USCT) garrisoned Fort Ethan Allen. Two companies, C and H, roughly 200 men, drilled on the parade ground and manned the ramparts here starting in October 1865, while seven other companies were stationed in Arlington., The 107th came from Kentucky. USCT enlistment was not allowed in Kentucky until the spring of 1864. Enlistment guaranteed freedom for enslaved recruits, but initially required the consent of enslavers. In July 1864, recruitment in Kentucky was finally opened to "all who present themselves.", Some early recruits of the 107th were free men who enlisted by choice or were drafted, others were enlisted by their enslavers, and still others escaped from bondage and secured freedom through enlistment., It is remarkable to think that formerly enslaved men helped to protect America's capital by 1865. On November 22, 1866, after serving in Kentucky, North Carolina, and Virginia, the 107th mustered out from service., "I wish for nothing but to breathe ... the air of liberty.... I have no ambition, unless it to be to break the chain and exclaim: 'Freedom to all!" , Sgt. Maj. Charles Singer, 107th USCT, September 18, 1864, (captions) , Charles Singer joined the 107th USCT in the late spring of 1864. He rose to the rank of sergeant major, then one of the highest ranks available to Black troops. Courtesy Gettysburg National Military Park, Prior to the war, Pvt. Creed Miller was enslaved in Kentucky. He enlisted in the 107th USCT. Disease curtailed his service, and he died in early 1866. The badge he wore on his uniform reflects his pride in serving his country. Courtesy National Museum of African American History and Culture