I came across an interesting account regarding a mixed race unit at Mansfield by Geoge Whythe Baylor, Col. of the 2nd Texas Cavalry, Arizona Brigade. He mentions a mixed race unit across from Major's/Lane's Brigade at the Battle of Mansfield, LA. He said he can only account for their flag, a US flag that was colored half black, because of it being in honor of the black contingent in the unit. The brigade accross from Major's/Lane's brigade during the battle was Lucas's Mounted Infantry Brigade. Col. Baylor also mentions seeing a black federal infantry man in uniform dead on the field. I see no US colored troops on the order of battle. I am guessing perhaps this might be the 2nd Lousiana Mounted Infantry US but that is only speculation. The entire report by baylor is in ORs Series I, 34. Does anyone have any information regarding a mixed race unit? This is poretty rare.

Rich Saathoff
hardeeflag@yahoo.com