54th Regiment Memorial

This monument serves as a reminder of the brave men who, as one of the first official African-American military units in the US, fought for the Union during the American Civil War. The sacrifice and fighting spirit displayed by these men was instrumental in encouraging the enlistment and acceptance of African-American troops in the north. Still, unfair treatment was institutional, and the men of the 54th would receive only $7 per month, in contrast with the $13 paid to their white brothers in arms. Refusing this monthly paycheck became a point of pride among the soldiers, who would wait about 18 months to see their wages paid in full.

• free

Address

22 Beacon Street

Getting there

Beacon and Park streets

Hours

24 hours daily

Price

Free