The State of Missouri and the Bates County Museum will be dedicating a new state park this year to commemorate the Battle Of islan Mound in October, 1862. The battle was the first engagement of an organized Federal unit of black soldiers in the Civil War. The dedication committee is searching for black Federal re-enacting units to participate in the weekend events. Units that are active west of the Mississippi would be most likely to come to SW Missouri. But any unit would be invited. If anyone knows of a unit, your assistance would be greatly appreciated. Thank you, John