CHANCELLORSVILLE, Va. (AP) — Virginia is recognizing a key date in the Civil War: the first combat between U.S. Colored Troops and Confederate forces north of the James River.
A state historical marker has been issued by the Virginia Department of Historic Resources recognizing the 23rd USCT. The marker will be dedicated Saturday as part of a daylong series of events in and around Chancellorsville battlefield in Spotsylvania County.
An organization of Civil War re-enactors will lead a procession to the site. Descendants of the original soldiers of the 23rd will be honored guests at the dedication.
The combat occurred on May 15, 1864, when the troops battled Brig. Gen. Thomas Rosser. The men of the 23rd supported the 2nd Ohio Cavalry and charged Rosser’s troops, causing them to withdraw.
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