City of Cape Girardeau The historic Common Pleas Courth…

The historic Common Pleas Courthouse (City Hall), is where more than 240 men of color from this region defied their enslaved status, volunteered themselves, and served in United States Colored Troop Regiments, 1863-1867. Historic Preservation Commissioner Phyllis Sides talks about James Ivers’ path from slavery to service, and how the renamed Ivers Square honors his family today. “Recruitment of black men into federal military service, which began in Missouri during the summer of 1863, delivered the death-blow to slavery.” – Ira Berlin Learn More