Editor's note: The following is an unedited release from the National Park Service.
The 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment was one of the first federally recognized African American regiments that fought in the Civil War with an enlistment station for Company C adjacent to the U.S. Custom House in downtown New Bedford, Massachusetts. More than 60 men from New Bedford enlisted in Company C or other Companies of the 54th Regiment. A brick walkway with the names of New Bedford men enlisted with the 54th Regiment will be unveiled and dedicated to this accomplished and determined group of men on Saturday at 2 p.m. at Custom House Square, downtown New Bedford, just steps away from where the recruiting station was once located.
Robert G. Stanton, former director of the National Park Service, will be the keynote speaker. His speech will be followed by refreshments in New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park’s garden. Soldiers from Boston’s 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, Company A and Colored Ladies Christian Relief Society will be in attendance as a ceremonial Honor Guard. This event, co-sponsored by the New Bedford Historical Society, the City of New Bedford, and New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park is the result of the partnership efforts of the three organizations to further the history of African Americans and their role in the Civil War. For more information on this event please contact the New Bedford Historical Society, 508-978-8828, Facebook.com/nbhistory.
Mr. Stanton, 15th director of the National Park Service, began his career at Grand Teton National Park as a seasonal ranger, working his way through the ranks until he served as Regional Director of the National Capital Region prior to his retirement. After retirement, President Clinton asked him to serve as the director of the National Park Service, a position he held from 1997-2001. Mr. Stanton is no stranger to New Bedford, having been present for the dedication of the Nathan and Polly Johnson House in 2000 and the dedication of the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment mural on 41 William Street.
Stories about:
Story Categories:
A copy of National Parks Traveler's financial statements may be obtained by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: National Parks Traveler, P.O. Box 980452, Park City, Utah 84098. National Parks Traveler was formed in the state of Utah for the purpose of informing and educating about national parks and protected areas.
Residents of the following states may obtain a copy of our financial and additional information as stated below:
- Florida: A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR NATIONAL PARKS TRAVELER, (REGISTRATION NO. CH 51659), MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING 800-435-7352 OR VISITING THEIR WEBSITE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.
- Georgia: A full and fair description of the programs and financial statement summary of National Parks Traveler is available upon request at the office and phone number indicated above.
- Maryland: Documents and information submitted under the Maryland Solicitations Act are also available, for the cost of postage and copies, from the Secretary of State, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401 (410-974-5534).
- North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 888-830-4989 or 919-807-2214. The license is not an endorsement by the State.
- Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of National Parks Traveler may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling 800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
- Virginia: Financial statements are available from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 102 Governor Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219.
- Washington: National Parks Traveler is registered with Washington State’s Charities Program as required by law and additional information is available by calling 800-332-4483 or visiting www.sos.wa.gov/charities, or on file at Charities Division, Office of the Secretary of State, State of Washington, Olympia, WA 98504.
National parks and their natural resources belong to you. The National Parks Traveler works to ensure you know how these essential places are being cared for.
Sign Up For Our Weekly Newsletter
Unsubscribe at any time.
INN Member
The easiest way to explore RV-friendly National Park campgrounds.
Here’s the definitive guide to National Park System campgrounds where RVers can park their rigs.
Our app is packed with RVing- specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 national parks.
You’ll also find stories about RVing in the parks, tips helpful if you’ve just recently become an RVer, and useful planning suggestions.
