A groundbreaking tribute celebrating the courage and sacrifice of 70 Black Union soldiers will soon grace the heart of downtown Rocky Mount, Virginia. The monument, slated for unveiling in late 2025, will stand proudly at the historic First Baptist Church site, marking a pivotal moment in acknowledging these forgotten heroes.
A sacred ground for remembrance
As reported in Black Enterprise, The chosen location carries profound historical weight. First Baptist Church, established during the Jim Crow era, represents more than just a house of worship; it is a testament to resilience and determination. The monument’s placement near downtown Rocky Mount’s entrance ensures these soldiers’ stories will be visible to everyone passing by.
The journey to honor these heroes began in 2020 when dedicated research unveiled an unexpected discovery. The documentation of three Black veterans expanded into the remarkable finding that approximately 70 Black men from Franklin County had served in the U.S. Colored Troops, fundamentally reshaping local understanding of Civil War history.
The 7-foot bronze statue emerged from collaborative efforts between Rocky Mount’s Raising the Shade Monument Committee and the Franklin County NAACP. When initial plans faced obstacles, First Baptist Church stepped forward to provide the perfect home for this tribute, demonstrating the power of community determination.
The monument transcends mere commemoration of Franklin County’s Black Union soldiers. It stands as a broader recognition of the nearly 200,000 Black soldiers who served in the U.S. Colored Troops beginning in 1863. These men answered the call to service despite systemic barriers like the Federal Militia Act of 1792, which had previously blocked their participation.
Their decision to fight carried tremendous weight. At a time when freedom remained uncertain, these soldiers risked everything to secure a better future. They served knowing they faced additional dangers beyond the battlefield, yet their commitment never wavered.
The monument’s creation reflects a growing awareness of the need to preserve and honor Black military service throughout American history. From the Revolutionary War through today, Black service members have demonstrated unwavering patriotism despite facing discrimination and lack of recognition.
As 2025 approaches, anticipation builds for this landmark unveiling. The monument will serve as both a celebration of courage and a reminder of the ongoing journey toward fully acknowledging Black contributions to American military service. For generations to come, this tribute will ensure these soldiers’ sacrifices are remembered, respected and recognized as an integral part of the nation’s story.
This bronze sentinel will stand as more than a historical marker; it represents a community’s determination to illuminate previously shadowed history. Through this monument, visitors will encounter a powerful reminder that courage knows no color, and service to country deserves recognition regardless of race.
For the Rocky Mount community, this monument transforms remembrance into action. It creates a space for reflection, education and inspiration. Most importantly, it ensures that the stories of these 70 brave soldiers will forever remain part of the visible fabric of Franklin County’s history.
