That's a good approach to the Forrest statement. I've been a life-long admirer of Forrest and reflexively defend him from all detractors. Forrest is name of my oldest son. I've read and re-read Forrest biographies, got my first one in 1967, and never found a reference to armed Black Confederates in his command. Capt. Jackson's company has probably received as much attention as any one independent company during the war, and there seems to be a certain amount of legend and hyperbole associated with it. Black Confederates are now part of the company's legend.

If someone has a reference to a book or article about Forrest and/or his escort company which mentions armed black men, slaves or not, please post. Most of my books are still in storage, a problem I hope to remedy soon, but any reference could be checked soon.

Jim, here's the other side of the coin for Old Bedford. After the war NBF became an advocate of African immigration to the South. He publicly stated that they learned quicker than other people and would be desirable settlers for the vast extent of abandoned lands in the South. At some time before his death NBF may have made another similar remark about the support the Confederacy received from slaves and FMoC. I don't know, and again, would like to know the source of this purported Forrest statement.