African American Civil War Memorial and Museum, Washington D.C.

The African American Civil War Memorial stands as a tribute to the 209,145 African-American soldiers and sailors who valiantly served the Union during the American Civil War. This memorial features a remarkable 9-foot bronze sculpture titled "The Spirit of Freedom," crafted by Ed Hamilton from Louisville, Kentucky. It was commissioned by the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities in 1993 and completed in 1997. Adjacent to the sculpture, there is a walking area with gently curved walls bearing inscriptions of the names of these brave men who participated in the war. You can find this complex at the entrance to the U Street Metro station's eastern side.

In July 2011, the African American Civil War Museum celebrated its grand opening at its current permanent location. The museum has planned a series of activities spanning four years to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Civil War and the significant contributions made by African Americans. This museum serves as an invaluable resource for visitors, researchers, and descendants of the United States Colored Troops, offering a deeper understanding of their stories. Inside, you'll find an array of exhibits, including photographs, newspaper articles, and replicas of period clothing, as well as Civil War-era uniforms and weaponry.

Moreover, the African American Civil War Memorial Registry, housed within the museum, meticulously documents the family trees of over 2,000 descendants of the individuals who served in the US Colored Troops. Additionally, other descendants have the opportunity to register in this registry. Visitors can easily navigate the database to locate ancestors and relatives registered in the Descendants Registry.