HISTORY
The John G. Riley Center and Museum of African American History and Culture is leading the effort to document the contributions and gallantry of African American soldiers in the Civil War.
In February 2010, the Riley Center partnered with the Battle of Natural Bridge Historical Society to raise awareness of the African American Soldiers that fought and led the charge in The Battle at Natural Bridge, less than eight miles South of Tallahassee. These brave warriors were the men of the 2nd and the 99th Regiments United States Colored Troops (USCT).
The 2nd Infantry Regiment United State Colored Troops Living History Association was created to participate in the reenactment of the Battle of Natural Bridge to assure the authenticity and accuracy of the battle as it occurred on March 6, 1865.
Concurrently, the Riley Center initiated its Colored Troops Education Project, which expanded the role of the Association to include year-round educational, cultural and historical programming.
Since our inception, the Association has grown to include men, women and children, who have participated in more than 120 events throughout the state, region and country; honoring the legacy of these soldiers and their families.
MISSION STATEMENT
To Preserve, Protect, Educate, Promote, and Interpret the accomplishments of the original soldiers of the 2nd Infantry Regiment United States Colored Troops and their families.
MEMBERSHIP
THE MEMBERSHIP OF THE 2ND INFANTRY REGIMENT UNITED STATES COLORED TROOPS LIVING HISTORY ASSOCIATION CONSISTS OF MEN, WOMEN AND CHILDREN, FROM VARIOUS WALKS OF LIFE WHO HAVE COME TOGETHER TO PROMOTE THE AFRICAN-AMERICAN PERSPECTIVE OF THE CIVIL WAR. THE ASSOCIATION PARTICIPATES IN VARIOUS WORKSHOPS, BATTLEFIELD REENACTMENTS, HISTORICAL DRAMATIZATIONS, CULTURAL CELEBRATIONS, LIVING HISTORY PRESENTATIONS, AND LECTURES.
WE ENDEAVOR TO TEACH THE AFRICAN AMERICAN PERSPECTIVE OF CIVIL WAR HISTORY AND THE SACRIFICES MADE BY AFRICAN AMERICANS TO SECURE A UNION VICTORY AND END THE TYRANNY OF SLAVERY. WE BELIEVE KNOWING ONE’S HISTORY IS TO BELIEVE IT, BUT SEEING ONES HISTORY PRESENTED IN A LIVING HISTORY FORM IS TO TRULY CONCEIVE IT.
MEMBERSHIP INCLUDES:
INFANTRY UNIT - INDIVIDUALS AGE 16 AND OLDER WHO REPRESENT U.S.C.T. SOLDIERS DURING BATTLE REENACTMENTS AND OTHER HISTORICAL DEMONSTRATIONS
LADIES (CIVILIAN) AUXILIARY - INDIVIDUALS AGE 16 AND OLDER WHO DEMONSTRATE THE CIVILIAN AND FAMILY LIFE OF THE CIVIL WAR ERA
YOUTH ASSEMBLY - CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 16 WHO DEMONSTRATE YOUTH ACTIVITIES AND LIFESTYLES OF THE CIVIL WAR ERA