Description:
This historical marker is located at the site of the 54th Massachusetts Infantry Plaza, which was dedicated to the African-American New Bedford soldiers who served in the war in February 1999. The marker was erected by the National Park Service as a part of the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park, and marks the site of the first office to recruit African-American soldiers during the Civil War. 120 men enlisted in the building, and the first regiment of black soldiers to fight in the Civil War was formed. There is also a colorful mural nearby with scenes depicting the regiments’ participation in the Civil War, in contrast with the black-and-white photographs displayed on the historical marker. The building no longer exists, but in its place is a small, round, urban plaza with a fountain in the center. There are plans for a prospective monument on the site.
