First Kansas Colored Volunteers

Over one hundred and eighty thousand black men fought for the Union during America's Civil War. From infantrymen to artillerist and cavalry soldiers these soldiers combined to form one hundred and sixty-six Union regiments. On 29 October 1862 at Island Mound Missouri the First Kansas Colored Volunteers an infantry regiment comprised mainly of blacks from Kansas and Missouri became the first black regiment to experience combat during the Civil War. Their courage and outstanding performance in battle as recorded are unquestioned. What have been omitted from research thus far are their contributions to overall Union successes in the Trans-Mississippi West. Their accomplishments are remarkable for they came in the face of extreme obstacles of prejudice and hatred. 'No Quarter' was ever given and 'No Quarter' was asked of the regiment's black soldiers. The contributions of the First Kansas Colored Volunteers in conjunction with those of the many regiments they served along side of resulted in a resounding Union victory in the Trans-Mississippi West.