Bluegrass Connections

The historic Camp Nelson National Monument in Jessamine County, KY, is gearing up for a significant milestone as it prepares to commemorate its 160th anniversary on Saturday, July 26, 2025. This special event, titled “A Portal into the Past: Camp Nelson, Photography, and the End of the Civil War,” promises to offer visitors a meaningful glimpse into a pivotal chapter of American history through a variety of engaging programs and exhibits.

In an exciting collaboration, the National Park Service has partnered with Military Images to present the traveling exhibit “Faces of Freedom.” This powerful collection features 37 high-quality prints reproduced from original photographs found in both private and public collections. Of particular significance are the images of U.S. Colored Troops (USCT), including soldiers who were trained and organized at Camp Nelson itself. This exhibit offers a rare opportunity to see the actual faces of those who fought for freedom during one of America’s most transformative periods.

The anniversary commemoration will feature a rich program of activities designed to immerse visitors in Camp Nelson’s historical significance. Attendees can look forward to fascinating presentations delivered by scholars, National Park Service staff, and descendants of those who lived and served at Camp Nelson. These personal and academic perspectives will provide insights into the camp’s role during the final days of the Civil War.

Beyond the presentations, visitors will have the opportunity to experience authentic period photography demonstrations and participate in guided tours of the historic grounds. These experiences are designed to connect attendees with the past. The event is open to everyone, with all programs being completely free, making this important historical commemoration accessible to all community members interested in connecting with local and national heritage.

Camp Nelson’s historical significance extends far beyond its military operations during the Civil War. Established in 1863, the camp served as a crucial Union Army supply depot and recruitment center in Kentucky. However, its most profound legacy lies in its role as one of the largest recruitment and training centers for African American soldiers who joined the Union Army’s U.S. Colored Troops regiments, with over 10,000 Black soldiers enlisting at Camp Nelson.

As the war approached its conclusion in 1865, Camp Nelson continued to function as both a military installation and a sanctuary. While the U.S. Army maintained its efforts to enlist and train USCT regiments, the camp simultaneously developed into a haven for the families of these soldiers at the Home for Colored Refugees. This dual purpose transformed Camp Nelson into a powerful symbol of emancipation and the transition from slavery to freedom for thousands of African Americans, making it one of the most significant sites in Kentucky for understanding the African American experience during this pivotal period in American history.