Record of the Service of the Fifty-fifth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry

# Record of the Service of the Fifty-Fifth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry

This is a historical regimental record, not a penny dreadful, printed in 1868 by the regimental officers' association. It comprises a diary kept by Colonel Charles B. Fox documenting the formation and early service of the Fifty-Fifth Massachusetts, an African American regiment organized in May 1863. The narrative details the regiment's recruitment at Readville, training under Colonel N. P. Hallowell and Lieutenant-Colonel A. S. Hartwell, and development of drill, discipline, and military exercises. Specific accounts include the establishment of evening prayer and hymn-singing practices, formation of musical ensembles including a band and drum corps, receipt of arms (Enfield rifles and Springfield muskets), target-practice results, presentation of regimental colors by Governor Andrew and Ohio citizens, and various incidents including the shooting of Private Benjamin Hayes by an officer of the guard. The record emphasizes the regiment's readiness upon departure for active service.