Letter F: Sixth of twenty-six posts in the April 2016 Blogging From A to Z Challenge. Wish me luck and please join me on the journey!
During the U.S. Civil War, Fort Monroe near Hampton, Virginia, became known as the “Freedom Fort” for providing refuge to African Americans liberating themselves from enslavement.
The fort is also part of my family history because — 151 years ago this month — my Union Army ancestor Arthur Bull recuperated there from war related illness.
The following major historical events occurred while my great, great grandfather Arthur was laid up in hospital at Fort Monroe — far from his family and the federal comrades-in-arms he had fought with:
- The fall of Petersburg, Virginia
- The end of the U.S. Civil War
- The assassination of President Abraham Lincoln
Place provides a rich framework for people in the history of a family, and Fort Monroe is one such place for me. Huge and imposing, yes — yet during the U.S Civil War it was also a safe haven for those breaking free from the brutal slavery system and a welcome resting place where my Union Army ancestor Arthur Bull could heal from the rigors of war.
Are there places of importance in your family history? Read more about them to learn about your ancestors’ lives.
Another important place in my family is Gloversville, Fulton County, N.Y., as you will read in the next post.
© 2016 Molly Charboneau. All rights reserved.