In the weeks leading up to Sherman’s arrival in Fayetteville, North Carolina, more than his soldiers were following his steps. Thousands of African Americans escaped from their masters and ventured with Sherman’s men north for a chance at freedom. Despite challenges along the way, more than 6,000 men, women, and children arrived in Wilmington, North Carolina, just days after the Confederate defeat at Fort Fisher. After escaping with their lives and only what they could reasonably carry, refugees ventured to North Carolina, looking for solace. Local leader, General Joseph R. Hawley, placed refugees at Fort Anderson/ Brunswick Town on acquired and/or abandoned lands, including Orton, Lilliput, and Kendall Plantations. There, they crafted communities and established roots as free men and women post-Civil War.
