African Americans were not allowed to fight in the Civil War until the formation of the first “colored” unit, the 54th Massachusetts, in March 1863. 24 men from Elmira and Horseheads joined, 20 of whom made up the core of Company F. Of the Chemung County men, 5 were wounded in battle and 7 died. The regiment was made famous at the battle for Fort Wagner, but their toughest fight was for equal pay with their fellow soldiers. Although promised $13 a month, they were only paid $7. After months of protests, the men were finally paid their promised wages with back pay in September 1864.