YOUNGSTOWN Civil War recruitment drive: Group seeks black re-enactors

The troop needs as many recruits as possible.
By JOHN W. GOODWIN JR.
VINDICATOR STAFF WRITER
YOUNGSTOWN -- Area blacks with a liking for Civil War-era history and a desire to re-enact it might want to make their way to the Associated Neighborhood Centers, McGuffey Center, on Jacobs Road this Saturday.
The 5th U.S. Colored Troops of Ohio, Company I, a group of Civil War re-enactors, is holding a recruitment drive. Representatives with displays will be on hand from noon to 3 p.m. at the center.
Steffon Jones, troop member, said prospective recruits need not bring anything to sign up. He said those interested must be at least 10 years old, and able and willing to learn how to drill and march. Minors must have parental permission.
The troop is particularly interested in recruiting women. Jones said many women fought during the Civil War -- most disguised as men -- and including that aspect in re-enactments is important to troop members.
The cost
Though no equipment is needed to sign up for the troop, Jones said, members will have to buy a uniform, accessories and a rifle, which will range between $700 and $800. The rifle accounts for most of the cost at between $300 and $500. Jones said the ensemble can be purchased piece by piece over a period of time.
According to Jones the current 5th Colored Troops is the second formation of the troop. Jones said the first formation was established several years ago, but disbanded. The second formation was started in Youngstown with Company I and has since branched out across the state with additional companies in Cleveland, Columbus, Jefferson and Toledo.
The troop participated in 12 events during 2003. There are 18 events such as re-enactments, company battles, Juneteenth activities and Veteran's Day programs planned during 2004. Juneteenth is the celebration of the day many slaves in Texas were told of their freedom and is now a symbol of freedom for blacks.
Fun and educational
Jones said the activities are family-friendly fun and educational.
"The re-enactments are fun. You learn how to fire your weapon. You learn safety and you learn how these colored troops lived," He said. "You can read it, but to actually put the uniform on and live it makes you complete."
Jones said the troop is looking for as many new recruits as possible. There are currently seven members in Youngstown's Company I.
jgoodwin@vindy.com