About this Collection
Bennie McRae, Jr.
Noted author, historian and veteran Bennie McRae, Jr. has donated more than 20 years of research on the African American military experience, primarily focused on the U.S. Colored Troops and Contrabands in the Civil War.
McRae's research is compiled from numerous libraries, archives and historic sites, much of which he features on three popular historical websites: www.lwfaah.net, www.lwfaam.net and www.bjmjr.net. He formerly managed several research forums for Afrigeneas.com, and in 2007, he co-authored the book " Nineteenth Century Freedom Fighters".
"It is a blessing to partner with an institution such as Hampton University that can further spread the information," said McRae. "I know that it'll be in good hands and be here forever for people to access."
"Mr. Bennie McRae has been recognized over the past two decades as the definitive source for information about African-American contributions to the nation's military services," said Vernon Courtney, director of the HU Museum. "His willingness to help students and researchers and the accuracy of archival records in his collection are well known by those working to document those contributions."
A native of Louisville, Ala., McRae served 36 years of service in various management and training positions with the U.S. Air Force and Federal Aviation Administration. McRae holds a master's degree in business management from Central Michigan University and a bachelor's degree from Antioch College.
"There are a lot of heroes from the Civil War whose accomplishments we need to highlight," said McRae.
