First Kansas Volunteer Infantry Regiment presentation by Omar Reed, Honey Springs Battlefield Historic Site

Honey Springs Battlefield Historic Site is honored to announce a special presentation about the contributions of the First Kansas Volunteer Infantry Regiment during the Civil War. The program will be held at the new Visitor Center on Saturday, March 10, 2018, at 1 pm. Omar Reed, a historical interpreter from Fort Gibson Historic Site, will speak about the historical importance of the famed First Kansas Volunteer Infantry Regiment who fought bravely at the Battle of Honey Springs on July 17, 1863. This event is free to the public but donations are welcome.

According to Reed, “As it was officially designated at the time of the battle, the 1st Kansas Volunteer Infantry Regiment (Colored) was one of the first African-American units organized in the Union Army. Members were recruited in August of 1862 under the authority of Kansas Senator (later General) James Lane, but without the permission of President Lincoln.”

“These soldiers were well-trained and equipped. In October 1862, they were attacked by Confederate forces near Butler, Missouri, in the Battle of Island Mound, making them the first African American Union regiment to shed blood in action against the enemy during the Civil War. The unit also saw action at Cabin Creek, Indian Territory, before arriving at Honey Springs.”

After the presentation, visitors will have the opportunity to tour the battlefield and learn about key aspects of the engagement and those who fought at Honey Springs. Visitors can also tour the new Visitor Center, purchase items from the gift shop, and learn about exhibits opening in the near future. The new Visitor Center is located approximately 1.5 miles east of US Highway 69 off of Gertrude Avenue. The GPS coordinates are 35.523556, -95.485119.