The Opportunity Is At Hand
by Donald M. WisnoskiThe subject of this narrative (colored soldiers in the Civil War) was brought to light by the chance discovery of Private Cornelius Hardingís grave. A casual stroll through New Forest Hill Cemetery, in Utica, New York, revealed not one, but three black soldiersí burial sites. An old saying ìCuriousity Killed the Catî went into full mode. Years of research revealed over sixty black soldiers from Oneida County that fought in the Civil War. This number included some black veterans who had moved to the county for various reasons after the war.
When the war broke upon the nation in 1861, Oneida County had a black population of approximately 600 people. The male populace tendered their services when the appropriate time arrived. These sons of Africa proved their worth in the restoration of the Union and helped in securing their own rights as fellow American citizens.
This study hopes to educate future generations that the black men of Oneida County played an important role in the Civil War. Brief biographies will enlighten the reader that these men were real people. They walked in the same areas as we do now and saw the same sky and sun as we of the 21st Century. Nothing would probably ever have been recorded about these men if not their military service.
After the war, many of the black Oneidians returned home. Some moved on to work elsewhere while others remained to become valued citizens of the region. Burial locations have been noted when possible.
Hopefully the reader will learn some small facts about these extraordinary United States Colored Troops and appreciate their service. A Sunday trip to the various cemeteries mentioned may bring the reader to truly understand that these men were once real flesh and blood. They sacrificed as much as their white counterparts to save the Union. Perhaps we would be living a different lifestyle if not for these unknown soldiers.
Donald M. Wisnoski
Chadwicks, New York