Alex Beaumont, CO E 116 USC
An inspiring reminder of the struggle for freedom and the role of African-American U.S. soldiers
Experience Details
Address
106 N. Second Ave. La Grange, KY 40031
GPS Coordinates
38.40893809629814, -85.380930144128
Notes
Located at the Oldham County History Center. The sign is on the History Center campus.
Location Map
About Alex Beaumont, CO E 116 USC
Alexander Beaumont’s life story is an inspiring reminder of the struggle for freedom and the pivotal role African-American soldiers played in shaping the United States. Born into slavery in Kentucky in 1839, Beaumont’s remarkable courage and determination led him to join the Union Army in 1864 at Camp Nelson. Serving as a cook and private rank in Company E of the 116th Infantry, US Colored Troops, he fought for liberation and justice until his discharge in 1867. Beaumont’s legacy lives on at the Historic African American Cemetery in LaGrange, Kentucky, where he is buried under a gravestone proudly bearing the Union Shield.
His story serves as an enduring symbol of the valiant fight against slavery and for the dignity of all people. The Civil War era was a chaotic time in Kentucky, a state with deep-seated slavery roots. The Conscription Act of 1864 marked a pivotal moment, granting freedom to enslaved men like Beaumont who joined the Union cause, swelling the ranks of African-American soldiers fighting for liberation and justice. After the war, Beaumont settled in Oldham County, Kentucky, where he married and had seven children.
His legacy inspires visitors, highlighting the role of African-American soldiers in the fight for freedom and the enduring impact of their contributions to American history. Alexander Beaumont’s story is an important part of Kentucky’s history, reminding us of the ongoing fight for freedom and equality.
All Oldham County, Kentucky Experiences
Learn More About Oldham County, Kentucky
Known as the Farm Tour Capital of Kentucky, Oldham County is conveniently located 20 minutes away from downtown Louisville on I-71. It is known for its craft bourbons, 13 different farm tours, its “Trains on Main” historic shopping and dining district on the tracks, and for providing an opportunity to experience the life of a racehorse from colt to retirement. Visitors can enjoy farm-to-table dining at the Barn8 Restaurant on Hermitage Farm, explore Yew Dell Botanical Gardens, and visit the state’s largest beer garden, Oldham Gardens.
Additionally, Oldham County History holds two designations for the Underground Railroad history by the National Park Service Network to Freedom: one for a Site Designation and the other for its Archives, making it the only Archives designation in Kentucky.
Bourbon, Horses, Trains & Underground Railroad history. Only in Oldham.