In a recent meeting focused on the historical contributions of U.S. Colored Troops from Wildwood during the Civil War, significant discussions highlighted the enlistment patterns and personal stories of these soldiers. The meeting revealed that a group of 14 men enlisted, with eight signing up on March 17, 1864. The enlistment process raised questions about whether these men left their homes with or without permission, particularly in the context of potential bounties received by their owners.

The historian leading the discussion, who is actively researching the life of a soldier named James Green, expressed frustration over the lack of clear records, indicating that multiple individuals with the same name complicate the search. The meeting also noted that three of the enlisted men died from disease rather than battlefield injuries, underscoring the harsh realities of military service during that era.

The interconnectedness of the soldiers' families was a recurring theme, with many of the enlisted men related to one another, reflecting the tight-knit community from which they came. The historian shared anecdotes about family ties, including marriages among the soldiers' families, which further illustrated the close relationships within the community.

Benton Barracks, where many of these soldiers were trained, was described as a significant military installation that housed several regiments, including the 68th U.S. Colored Troops. The meeting emphasized that Missouri ranked fourth among Union states in terms of the number of enlisted U.S. Colored Troops, with over 8,300 men serving from the state.

The discussion also covered the battles these troops participated in, including engagements in Nashville, Tennessee, and Spanish Fort, Alabama. Notably, the soldiers continued their service beyond the official end of the war, playing a crucial role in securing strategic locations like New Orleans and Port Hudson.

After mustering out on February 5, 1866, the soldiers returned to Wildwood, where they transitioned into roles as sharecroppers or laborers, reflecting the economic realities faced by many veterans of the Civil War. The meeting concluded with a commitment to further research and preserve the legacy of these soldiers and their contributions to American history.