'Cause we men ain't we...part 2

Next, I was intrigued by Cary Elwes' character, Major Cabot Forbes. This man never existed! He is loosely based on a man by the name of Edward "Ned" Needles Hallowell. He was from a staunch abolitionist quaker family in Philadelphia, PA! He originally fought with the 20th Massachusetts and most likely gained his commission with the 54th because of his brother. Richard Price Hallowell was on the "Black Committee" with Gov. Andrew of Massachusetts to seek out officers interested in leading the all black regiment. This connection, and not likely a friendship with Shaw would explain his commission. Ned’s brother, Norwood Penrose Hallowell, was actually commissioned the Lt. Colonel. Ned actually recruited many men in the Philadelphia area, including two sons of Frederick Douglass.

By the time of the assault on Battery Wagner, and I’ll pause here. Yes, that's what it's called on original army topographical maps, of which I have copies. Not Fort Wagner. Also, the movie shot the sequence attacking from the wrong way. The ocean should be on their right! As I was saying, by the time of the assault on Battery Wagner, Ned was Lt. Colonel. He had been the acting second in command due to the formation of the second all black regiment, the 55th Massachusetts. This second regiment was formed, with his brother Norwood taking command.

Now at the end, we are not sure what happens to “Major Forbes,” but I can tell you what happened to Ned Hallowell on that day. He suffered three wounds and went home to recuperate. When he returned to the 54th, he was given command as a full colonel. Ned led the 54th for most of the remainder of the war, and was brevetted to Brigadier General after. He died at the age of 36 in 1871, most likely due to the effects of his wounds.

Did Cary do this man justice with his portrayal as a man of drink, afraid of responsibility, and lax with his discipline? Do you think Ned would have questioned whether or not the 54th would fight? You make the call.

Since this is becoming quite an ordeal, I’ll once again, continue tomorrow.
Part 3 in construction…