Manuscript Database

Creator/Title

Winn - Cook Family Papers. Papers, 1861-1875. 1 cu. ft.

Call No.

Mss. A W776 2-11, 16, 21

Content

Robert Winn writes many letter talking of the role of Black people in the war. He wants to see more of them drafted into the army and made to fight for their freedom. He often comments upon "contraband" units he encounters. On 24 Oct. 1863 he writes that the Negro Enlistment Act was a dead letter in Kentucky. On 11 Dec. 1863 he writes that Dr. Chase, the surgeon for the unit, when informed that "one of our Colonels cammanding a Negro Regiment had been burnt alive - Served him right - they all ought to be treated that way". On 25 Feb. 1864 he talks of emancipation and Black troops saying that many of the soldier feel that they should not be armed and are throwing rocks at Black troops in the camp. On 15 March 1864 he states that Col. Wolford believes there should be armed resistance to arming Black men in Kentucky. On 3 April 1864 he states that there several men in the unit applying for positions in Black units and 'there is now only 75% opposition to arming Black people as compared to 99%. On 1 June 1864 he talks of the two "contraband" units in Atlanta. On 13 July 1864 he talks of the pay for Black troops stating that only front line "contraband" units should get equal pay. The letters of William Brunt tell of his experiences training "contraband" units.

Subject Heading

United States - History - Civil War, 1861-1865 - Participation, African American