Shaw Memorial, Boston Common, Boston, MA
1897 (photo taken 1890-1935)
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Unveiled in 1897 in Boston Common, the Robert Gould Shaw Memorial by Augustus Saint-Gaudens commemorates the colonel of the Massachusetts 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment from the Civil War.
The 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment was one of the most celebrated regiments of black soldiers that fought in the Civil War. Known simply as "the 54th," this regiment became famous after the heroic, but ill-fated, assault on Fort Wagner, South Carolina. Leading the direct assault under heavy fire, the 54th suffered enormous casualties before being forced to withdraw. The courage and sacrifice of the 54th helped to dispel doubt within the Union Army about the fighting ability of black soldiers.
The 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment was one of the most celebrated regiments of black soldiers that fought in the Civil War. Known simply as "the 54th," this regiment became famous after the heroic, but ill-fated, assault on Fort Wagner, South Carolina. Leading the direct assault under heavy fire, the 54th suffered enormous casualties before being forced to withdraw. The courage and sacrifice of the 54th helped to dispel doubt within the Union Army about the fighting ability of black soldiers.
This primary source comes from the Records of the National Park Service.
National Archives Identifier: 155823647
Full Citation: Shaw Memorial, Boston Common, Boston, MA; 1897 (photo taken 1890-1935); Landmarks of Boston; Henry Peabody Collection, 1959 - 1960; Records of the National Park Service, Record Group 79; National Archives at College Park, College Park, MD. [Online Version, https://docsteach.org/documents/document/shaw-memorial-boston, March 22, 2023]Activities that use this document
- Memorializing the Civil War Around America
Created by the National Archives Education Team
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