The 102nd United States Colored Troops - Company B - is looking for a few good men…women and children. Applicants must be a team player, willing to travel, learn military protocols and teach history. The position pays no salary, but has a fun benefit package. The benefits include: Wearing a Union army uniform or 18th century period clothing, carry a rifle or iron skillet, camping out while performing in Civil War re-enactments.

The 102nd United States Colored Troops - Company B - Black History Group was founded in 1986 as part of a Civil War re-enactment group for the Michigan Sesquicentennial (150 year) celebration.

The 102nd takes its name from the original Michigan African American regiment that was formed in Detroit in 1863 and fought for the Union during the Civil War. The designation - Company B - distinguishes the Capital City based group from other 102nd re-enactment organizations.

According to Geoffrey L. Blair, president of the 102nd United States Colored Troops - Company B, the group is dedicated to keep alive the contributions African Americans made in the Unites States victory to end slavery and maintain the Union.

He said, The 102nd USCTCB fosters and preserves the history of the American Civil War (1861 - 1865) by enhancing the public's understanding of Michigan's African American contributions in the conflict through historically accurate reenactments, camp demonstrations, military drills, parades, memorial ceremonies, and civilian activities. This is a huge task because of a lack of education and information about the sacrifice and bravery of African Americans in the War Between the States.

Blair declared, "I did not become aware of the contribution Black troops made during the Civil War until I was in college. I want to make everyone aware that Black folks were more than just slaves. And Black folks were not just waiting around for someone to come rescue us."

Currently, the re-enactment group is 18 members strong, and hail from as far away as Detroit, Flint, Benton Harbor and Dayton, Ohio. Membership is open to women, who play the part of the auxiliary and as educators in school scenarios involving children of the group's members. For youth under age 18, the group requires a release from parents or guardians.

Re-enacting can be a family affair. Blair says Company B boasts of several husband and wife teams. Blair, 37, has been partnered with his son, Andrea, 12, who joined the outfit as a drummer boy when he was eight years old.

"We enjoy our time together", Blair said. "We always encourage our members to bring their families with them."

Annual membership dues are $50 per person/family that funds the group and helps to defray operating costs. New members receive a pack, which includes the history of the 102nd and re-enacting information. New members are given 1 year to purchase their equipment. Until that time uniform parts can be borrowed from the group.

Getting fully outfitted can cost more than $500. According to Blair, the cost for uniform pants and coat is about 200 bucks. The weapon, a replica Endfield rifle costs between $350 and $450. Additional gear such as canteens, hats, annunition belts, bed rolls, ect… cost extra.

The 102nd will be performing at the upcoming dates and sites: July 16 & 17 - Fort Wayne, Detroit MI Civil War Days; August 13 & 14 - Milford Memories, Milford MI; August 27 & 28 - Cascades Park, Jackson MI Jackson Civil War Muster and September 24 & 25 - U-M Flint MI, Flint Sesquicentennial Living History Encampment.

Ready to "join the fight for freedom" and help to portray this often overlooked piece of American History or have questions about 102nd? Come out and talk to Company B members in the field or contact the group via e-mail form at: www.Realezsites.com/bus/102usctb

State will celebrate Juneteenth and Sojourner Truth Day
Governor signs legislation honoring two African American holidays

LANSING – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm recently signed legislation honoring two important pieces of African American history.
Senate Bill 384 (PA 48) officially designates the third Saturday in June as Juneteenth National Freedom Day and November 26 as Sojourner Truth Day in Michigan.

“I am honored to officially declare Juneteenth National Freedom Day and Sojourner Truth Day in Michigan,” said Granholm. “These days will call us each year to celebrate freedom and to honor the heroic men and women who fought to ensure that the principles of liberty and equality apply to everyone.”

Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration commemorating the end of slavery in America. The first festivities, held 140 years ago on June 19, 1865 in Galveston, Texas, were a spontaneous celebration of the news that Abraham Lincoln had signed the Emancipation Proclamation, giving slaves their freedom. The news didn’t reach Texas until more than two years after Lincoln’s actions, but the delay didn’t dampen the festivities.

Michigan is the 18th state to officially recognize Juneteenth as a state holiday. Celebrations were held in communities across Michigan the weekend of June 19.
“Juneteenth is a celebration of African American history and culture,” said Senator Martha G. Scott who sponsored the legislation. “It is important that we promote understanding, freedom and a strong sense of community.”

Sojourner Truth was born a slave in the late 18th century. After escaping the bonds of slavery, Truth became a tireless advocate for freedom and equality, once meeting with President Lincoln in her quest for economic opportunities for newly-freed slaves.

Truth settled in Battle Creek in 1858 where she began a job placement program to match former slaves with job openings in the area. “Sojourner Truth is a hero in my community, and this recognition is long overdue,” said Senator Mark Schauer, who has long advocated for a day honoring the legendary woman. “Because of this new law, each November 26 will be set aside for us to remember Sojourner Truth’s courage and eloquence on behalf of the rights and dignity of all people.”