Emilio, Luis F., History of the Fifty-Fourth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry , 1863-1865

[320] their colors and brought them home again,--there was little left of them, but enough to show how bravely they had been defended. They had proved good soldiers in the field; now he hoped they would become good citizens. When they left Massachusetts, it was the only State which recognized them as citizens. Now the whole country acknowledged their soldierly qualities. He hoped that by good behavior they would show their title to all the privileges of citizenship.

Continuing, he reminded them that their blood had enriched the soil of South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida; might the sweat of their brows now enrich the soil of Massachusetts. Might they show themselves to be men, without respect to color or former condition. He bade them good-by. He was glad to disband them, but he was sorry to part from them. Still, he knew they looked upon him as their friend, and felt sure that wherever he might go he would find friends among colored soldiers and colored men. In conclusion, he reminded them that having received large sums of money just paid to them, it should be kept. He hoped that all who had homes out of the city would return to them when disbanded.

Upon the conclusion of this address repeated cheers were given for General Hallowell. Then the square was reduced, and some manoeuvres were executed by the regiment. It then marched to the Charles-street Mall, and there partook of a collation spread upon tables, which had been prepared by William Tufts at the order of friends of the Fifty-fourth. Then the regiment was disbanded.

Company C, recruited largely in New Bedford, was escorted to the cars by the Shaw Guards. At New Bedford, when the company arrived, a large number of citizens,