Uncovering the Untold Story of African American Soldiers in the Civil War

On March 16, Vicksburg National Military Park will host a special program, “Considerable Obstinacy”: The Origins of the 11th Louisiana Infantry, African Descent, presented by Isaiah Tadlock.

The 11th Louisiana Infantry (African Descent) was formally organized as part of the U.S. Army in May 1863. Within weeks of their enlistment, the 11^th LA Inf. (A.D.) successfully defended themselves and the Mississippi River, landing from an attack by Texas Confederate forces. Although the 11th LA Inf. (A.D.) was comprised of men who recently self-manumitted themselves from nearby plantations. Their military records indicate many of the U.S. soldiers were born in other “slave states” and transported south as part of the U.S. domestic slave trade. Their records also reveal the diversity of skills obtained during their enslavement, noting some were highly skilled craftsmen. The valor displayed by the 11^th LA Inf. (A.D.) at Milliken’s Bend was a pivotal moment in the Civil War, demonstrating to the world the African American U.S. soldiers’ ability and determination to fight for their “Freedom.”

Join us in discovering more about the origins, successes, and sacrifices of the 11^th LA Inf. (A.D.) in the Civil War era.

An entrance pass is not required to join the viewing event at the Visitor Center; however, it is still required to access the tour road.