McCauley Lecture November 22

Please join us for our next McCauley Lecture presented by the John C. Frye Western Maryland Room.

In 1862, before the Emancipation Proclamation, the Union Army did not yet enlist black men as soldiers. But black men served in noncombatant roles throughout the military: as laborers, mule drivers, horse handlers, cooks, and servants. Many were free men from the North, but many were escaping from slavery in the South. This talk will tell the stories of some of these men who were present in units that fought at Antietam, including a few who came from Washington County. What can we know about black noncombatants? What was life like for them, and what dangers did they face? 

The lecture speaker is Emilie Amt. Emilie Amt is an award-winning writer on the African American history of western Maryland. A medieval historian by training, she has also published books and articles on medieval religious women and English government, war, and finance. Her books include college textbooks and scholarly editions of Latin texts. Since 2010, her historical research has focused on African Americans in western Maryland in the era of slavery. She gives frequent talks, leads workshops, and works with local historical, church, and community groups on public history projects. Emilie also works with groups and individuals to use history and genealogy restoratively. Her research focuses on Washington County, Maryland, where she lives. John Brown launched his raid on Harpers Ferry from Washington County, and the Battle of Antietam was fought there.

Registration is appreciated. Register using our online calendar here.