But the story of these 12 Galesburg heroes goes far beyond a mere movie.
Following the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, President Lincoln called for the raising of a regiment of Black troops for the Union Army. The 54th Massachusetts was quickly organized and soldiers from throughout the nation eagerly embraced the chance to join in the fight for freedom. In April 1863, these 12 men from Galesburg enlisted in Company H of the 54th. In all 35 men from Illinois joined the 54th Massachusetts. Following a period of training, the 54th went into combat in South Carolina.
Two of the Galesburg soldiers were wounded at the second battle of Fort Wagner in South Carolina that summer. Both were captured and held until they were exchanged in 1865. Four other Galesburg men were wounded during the war, and one, Private Preston Williams, died in an accident. The survivors, along with the other brave men of the 54th Massachusetts, continued to serve until they were discharged at the end of their enlistment.
They inspired more than 180,000 Black troops to join the fight for the Union and proved once and for all that Black troops would fight just as tenaciously as any other soldiers. These twelve Galesburg heroes did their part to help bring about victory, save the Union and ultimately destroy slavery throughout the country.
"I was honored to present a resolution in the Illinois House last fall honoring these 12 local heroes for their service and sacrifice," said Rep. Dan Swanson. "Much of the history of these twelve heroes was compiled by the late Dr. Hermann Muelder of Knox College for his book A Hero Home From The War. It was an honor to have Galesburg City Councilman Dwight White, Mayor Peter Schwartzman, Jim Jacobs and Pastor Tony Franklin join me in Springfield for the presentation of this resolution, which the House voted to adopt."
The showing of the film is made possible through a grant from the United Way of Knox County to promote the initiative of creating a permanent monument to honor these local soldiers.