Untold Stories Collection

The incident described on December 9, 1864, during Sherman's march to Savannah, reflects a tragic chapter in American history during the Civil War. As Sherman's Army advanced, many African American families who had recently escaped slavery sought refuge and safety with the Union forces. However, during a critical moment at a pontoon bridge, chaos ensued when orders were given to remove the bridge prematurely, leaving hundreds or possibly thousands of refugees stranded and vulnerable.

As dawn approached, the desperate cries of the refugees filled the air as their escape route was abruptly cut off. Adding to the turmoil, scouts under General Wheeler's command attacked from behind, further destabilizing the situation. Faced with imminent danger, many refugees rushed into the icy waters of the creek, attempting to swim to safety. Union soldiers stationed on the eastern bank tried to assist by pushing logs toward those struggling in the water.

The tragic events led to widespread public outcry and condemnation. Black ministers, outraged by the massacre, demanded justice from Secretary of War Edwin Stanton and General William T. Sherman. In response to these demands, Sherman issued Special Field Order No. 15, a directive that briefly allocated land to African American families in coastal areas of the South, known as the "40 acres and a mule" policy.

Colonel Charles Kerr of the 16th Illinois Cavalry, in a speech decades later, vividly recalled the heart-wrenching scenes he witnessed during and after the incident. He described the deliberate actions taken to prevent African Americans from crossing the bridge, highlighting the stark disregard for their lives and the profound human suffering that ensued.

This tragic event during Sherman's march underscores the profound challenges faced by African Americans seeking freedom and security during the Civil War era. It serves as a stark reminder of the systemic racism and injustices that persisted during Reconstruction and beyond, prompting calls for accountability and reform in the pursuit of civil rights and equality in American society.