[History Hounds] Glory: Col. Shaw and the 54th Massachusetts with Claire Herhold, Historical Society of Michigan

The 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment played a pivotal role in the American Civil War. The exemplary service of its members—including over 60 soldiers from Michigan—opened the door for 180,000 Black men to serve in the Union army. The leadership of its young and ill-fated colonel, Robert Gould Shaw, has been cited by historians for setting the trajectory of the unit’s reputation and impact. Learn how Shaw’s upbringing among an elite set of wealthy, East Coast activists influenced his decision to accept this controversial command and identify with the men he died alongside.

We'd like to thank the Historical Society of Michigan (HSM), which supports local history organizations, like us! They are continuing to make their History Hounds Lecture Series available online for free to members of HSM’s member organizations. Register for this remote presentation by 3:00pm the previous day. Click here to register. Select “A member of an Organizational Member of HSM” to enjoy this presentation at no charge.