The Orpheum Theatre in Galesburg will present a free screening of the 1989 film “Glory” on February 15 at 7 p.m. The movie, featuring Matthew Broderick, Denzel Washington, and Morgan Freeman, depicts the story of the 54th Massachusetts regiment during the Civil War. This regiment included twelve African American soldiers from Galesburg who fought for freedom.
The history of these twelve men extends beyond their portrayal in the film. Following President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, he called for Black troops to join the Union Army. The 54th Massachusetts was quickly formed, attracting volunteers nationwide eager to fight for freedom. In April 1863, twelve men from Galesburg enlisted in Company H of this regiment. A total of thirty-five men from Illinois joined them.
During combat in South Carolina, two Galesburg soldiers were wounded at the second battle of Fort Wagner and captured until their exchange in 1865. Four others were injured during the war, with Private Preston Williams dying in an accident. The survivors continued to serve until discharged at their enlistment’s end.
These soldiers inspired over 180,000 Black troops to join the Union fight and demonstrated that Black troops could fight as fiercely as any other soldiers. Their efforts contributed significantly to achieving victory and ending slavery across America.
A resolution honoring these twelve local heroes was presented last fall in the Illinois House by a state representative. “I was honored to present a resolution in the Illinois House last fall honoring these 12 local heroes for their service and sacrifice,” stated an official involved.
Dr. Hermann Muelder of Knox College compiled much of their history for his book “A Hero Home From The War.” During the resolution presentation adopted by vote, several notable figures attended: Galesburg City Councilman Dwight White, Mayor Peter Schwartzman, Jim Jacobs, and Pastor Tony Franklin.
The United Way of Knox County funded this film showing through a grant aimed at promoting an initiative to create a permanent monument honoring these local soldiers.
