A Journey to 1863: Civil War Experience at Conner Prairie

On our field trip to Conner Prairie, we participated in the 1863 Civil War experience. Our young "recruits" are too young to enlist today, but in 1863, they could have served with the Indiana 28th US Colored Troops. 

At the Temporary Quartermaster Station, Conner Prairie

As many as 20% of Civil War soldiers were younger than 18. That was the minimum recruiting age for Union soldiers, but many people willingly overlooked the law. Many young soldiers enlisted as musicians -- drummers, fifers, or buglers. In theory, musicians didn't fight. But once a battle began, these kids often armed themselves -- to save their own lives or the lives of their friends.

 Virginia Avenue & McCarty Street

Indiana 28th USCT: Organized from December 24, 1863 - March 31, 1864: the 28th Regiment, U.S. Colored Troops was the only African American regiment organized in Indiana. Its initial training took place at Camp Fremont located near Indianapolis' south side neighborhood, Fountain Square.