Path to freedom?  Learn how 8,718 African American Marylanders fought for their nation, as well as for their freedom and citizenship.

Though President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation, issued on January 1, 1863, did not free enslaved people in Maryland, it opened the door for African Americans across the nation to serve in the Union Army as part of the United States Colored Troops (USCT).  For Black Americans, this was not only an opportunity to fight for their country, but also for their freedom and citizenship—an opportunity they seized with unparalleled determination.

Nearly 180,000 African Americans served in the Union Army during the Civil War—including almost 80,000 recruited from Union states. Maryland contributed 8,718 Black soldiers, more than any other border state. Talbot County, remarkably, led all counties in Maryland in enlistments.

When war broke out, Talbot County’s Black population was nearly evenly split between free and enslaved individuals. For many enslaved men, joining the United States Colored Troops (USCT) was a path to liberation. Some were even granted permission by their enslavers, a decision that transformed lives and history.

Talbot County’s high enlistment numbers had a profound impact on its white families, forever shaping their futures. The Civil War introduced the first draft in U.S. history, requiring men to serve in combat. While there were four draft rounds during the war, Talbot County only participated in the first. Because so many African Americans from Talbot enlisted, no additional white men from the county were drafted after the first round.

What to Expect:

Gain a deeper understanding of Talbot County’s Black population—both free and enslaved— from the colonial era to the Civil War. Explore how the county led Maryland in USCT enlistments, how these enlistments shaped military draft requirements for local white men, and the role Talbot County soldiers played in critical battles. Learn about Maryland’s USCT regiments and their contributions to Union victories, as well as the post-war lives of returning soldiers, including the founding of Unionville, a lasting testament to their legacy.

NOTE:  This course corresponds with the Exhibit on same subject at the Historical Society that will be open into the Fall.

Feedback from earlier courses led by Paul:

“Terrific, well documented and delivered presentation of history I didn’t know. Great investment of time to listen and learn.”

“New to the area and heard about Chesapeake Forum. My first class. Subject was well researched and compelling. Looking forward to the next session.”

“The time went quickly since Paul was so enthusiastic and informative. As someone said, much of this showed a new perspective. Thank you and Paul!!”

1 session | Thursday | Oct 2 | 1:30 – 3pm | HYBRID (choose to participate in-person at our classroom at the Easton Family YMCA on Peachblossom, or join by Zoom, or wait for the recording) | $30