New memorial in Plymouth remembers Black Civil War soldiers

PLYMOUTH, N.C. (WITN) – A ceremony and ribbon cutting were held in Plymouth to remember the black soldiers who fought during the Civil War.

On display at the memorial is a photo that was taken in 1905 as the 35th United States Colored Troops came together in Plymouth to remember what they did for their country. Those who retell stories of their bravery say the 35th holds a special place in history.

“The 35th was raised as one of the first all-black units raised in the south, composed of mostly former slaves,” said reenactor Bernard George.

Saturday, before the ribbon cutting that unveiled the new memorial, family members, historians, and community members spoke passionately about what the 35th United States Colored Troops stood for and how important it is to preserve their history.

“The story, the history, is just absolutely spectacular. There was so much that happened right here in Plymouth, North Carolina,” said Plymouth Mayor Brian Roth.

The 35th saw battle action in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida.

Their memorial is set to bring people from all over to see it.

“You’re gonna get a lot of people who are gonna come to Plymouth, not only for this event, but in the future, people are gonna drive around to see those Civil War trail markers. It’s gonna be a big part of the ongoing tourism here,” historian Earl Ijames said.

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