James Harris and William Barnes, both members of the United States Colored Troops (USCT) and native St. Mary’s Countians, were awarded the Medal of Honor for their heroism during the Battle of New Market Heights/Chaffin Farm, Virginia. A total of 14 medals were awarded to members of the USCT after that battle. These men also received the Butler Medal, also known as the “Colored Troops Medal”.
Timeline
Planning Your Visit
County: St. Mary's County
Themes: African American People and Culture, Civic Ideas and Action
Timeframes: 1860 – 1877 The Civil War and Reconstruction
Audience: College, General Public, High School, Middle School, Teacher