In What Year Was Camp Nelson Declared a National Historic Landmark?

In 2020, Camp Nelson was declared a National Historic Landmark, marking the 150th anniversary of its establishment as a Union Army recruitment and training center for African American soldiers during the Civil War. Founded in 1864 by Union General Stephen G. Burbridge, Camp Nelson served as the largest recruitment and training camp for African American soldiers in Kentucky and served as an important Union base of operations in the western theater of the war.

At the height of its operations, Camp Nelson was home to some 10,000 African American soldiers, including more than 6,000 refugees from slavery who had fled behind Union lines. It was also one of the few military installations in the nation to offer enslaved people freedom if they joined the Union Army.

This led to many families being reunited at Camp Nelson after a long separation due to slavery.

Camp Nelson quickly became an important center for civil rights and education for African Americans in Kentucky. During their stay at Camp Nelson, many former slaves received their first formal education and even attended classes offered by Oberlin College faculty members who were sent by President Lincoln. In addition to providing education opportunities, Camp Nelson also saw significant advancements in civil rights for African Americans with the passage of laws allowing them to serve on juries and vote in local elections.

Camp Nelson’s legacy lives on today as a symbol of civil rights progress made during Reconstruction. The site has been preserved since 1998 and is now managed by Jessamine County Parks & Recreation Department which offers educational programs and guided tours throughout its grounds.

Conclusion:
In 2020, Camp Nelson was declared a National Historic Landmark after being established as a Union Army recruitment and training center 156 years prior. This declaration has ensured that this important part of our nation’s history is preserved for future generations to learn from and appreciate its legacy of civil rights progress made during Reconstruction.

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Samantha Mckinney