February 20, 1864: The battle of Olustee, fought on February 20, 1864, was the largest battle fought in the state of Florida. A Confederate defensive victory, it was also the first battle in which we can identify New Jersey African American soldiers in combat, fighting as members of the 8th United States Colored Infantry, a unit organized at Camp William Penn, outside Philadelphia.
The Jerseymen killed fighting in the ranks of the 8th at Olustee were Charles Anin, Jacob Hall, Henry Harris, Levi Scruby, Joseph Thompson, William H. Trimble, George Willett and Benjamin Wooley. Israel Cox of Trenton and John W. Adams of Salem County were badly wounded at the battle. Cox died in the hospital and Adams was finally discharged from the hospital in November, 1865.
The photo shows Jason Wickersty (right) trustee of the New Jersey Civil War Heritage Association, ready to go into action alongside First Sergeant Marvin-Alonzo Greer at the 150th anniversary of the battle of Olustee reenactment last weekend. They represent an officer and noncommissioned officer of the 8th United States Colored Infantry.
