"That looks like [Shaw] the last morning I saw him. He was killed that night. That morning I gave him his last breakfast."—Harriet Tubman
From the establishment of the regiment, the 54th Massachusetts had support from allies near and far. Local and national Black leaders assisted in recruitment efforts, while local groups gathered supplies for their success and comfort. Others wrote letters advocating for their equal pay, and communities provided support for veterans when they returned home from war.
This gallery features community members who rallied around the 54th regiment, as well as records of the efforts to establish and support the regiment during and after the Civil War.
Gallery 1: Boston Supporters
When President Lincoln called for the raising of Black Regiments, many community leaders, abolitionists, and politicians organized efforts to enlist volunteers from across the country. Learn about some of the notable supporters in Boston.