In 1814, when New Orleans was in danger, and the proud and criminal
distinctions of caste were again demolished by one of those emergencies
in which nature puts to silence for the moment the base partialities of
art, the free Colored people were called into the field in common with
the whites; and the importance of their services was thus acknowledged
by Gen. Jackson:--
"Headquarters Seventh Military District, Mobile,
September 21, 1874.
"To the Free Colored Inhabitants of Louisiana:
Through a mistaken policy, you have heretofore been deprived of a
participation in the glorious struggle for national rights, in which
our country is engaged. This no longer shall exist.
"As Sons of Freedom, you are now called upon to defend our most
inestimable blessings. As Americans, your country looks with
confidence to her adopted children for a valorous support, as a
faithful return for the advantages enjoyed under her mild and
equitable government. As fathers, husbands, and brothers, you are
summoned to rally around the standard of the Eagle, to defend all
which is dear in existence.
"Your country, although calling for your existence, does not wish
you to engage in her cause without remunerating you for the services
rendered. Your intelligent minds are not to be led away by false
representations--your love of honor would cause you to despise the man
who should attempt to deceive you. With the sincerity of a soldier and
in the language of truth I address you.
"To every noble-hearted free man of color, volunteering to serve
during the present contest with Great Britain, and no longer, there
will be paid the same bounty in money and lands, now received by
the white soldiers of the United States, namely, one hundred and
twenty-four dollars in money, and one hundred and sixty acres of land.
The non-commissioned officers and privates will also be entitled to
the same monthly pay, daily rations and clothes furnished to any
American soldier.
"On enrolling yourselves in companies, the Major General commanding
will select officers, for your government, from your white fellow
citizens. Your non-commissioned officers will be appointed from among
yourselves.
"Due regard will be paid to the feelings of freemen and soldiers.
You will not, by being associated with white men in the same corps,
be exposed to improper comparisons or unjust sarcasm. As a distinct,
independent battalion or regiment, pursuing the path of glory, you
will, undivided, receive the applause and gratitude of your countrymen.
"To assure you of the sincerity of my intentions, and my anxiety to
engage your invaluable services to our country, I have communicated my
wishes to the Governor of Louisiana, who is fully informed as to the
manner of enrollments, and will give you every necessary information
on the subject of this address.