A RARE DOCUMENT FROM THE FAMOUS 54^TH MASSACHUSETTS AND SIGNED BY ONE OF THE OFFICERS.  IT GIVES INSTRUCTIONS FOR GUARDING THE FORT: “NO PERSON EXCEPT COMMISSIONED OFFICERS, AND THOSE OFFICIALLY CONNECTED WITH THE GARRISON OF THIS FORT WILL BE ALLOWED TO ENTER UNLESS ON DUTY, OR HAVING PASSES SIGNED BY PROPER AUTHORITY”

(54^th REGIMENT MASSACHUSETTS VOLUNTEER INFANTRY).  The famous 54^th Massachusetts was an African-American infantry made famous by the movie Glory.  It was the second African-American regiment, organized in 1863, and commanded by white officers.  They shipped to South Carolina where they became well-known for their assault on Fort Wagner. 

CHARLES M. DUREN (1842-1869).  Duren was a Second Lieutenant in the 54^th Massachusetts.  He was wounded in action and died at a young age.

DS. 2pg. 8” x 12”. No date [circa 1864]. South Carolina.  A document signed “C.M. Duren 1^st Lieut Co F Fifty Fourth”.  It is headed “Instructions for the Non-Commissioned Officer of the Cruard Fort Purveyance Morris Isld S.C.” and gives the following instructions: “I. The attention of the officer of the Cruard is derected to Army Regulations Pages 61, 62, 64 & 65 relating to the duties of Sentinels.  He will see that the sentinels are properly instructed in their duties.  II. See that not more than one man is absent from the Cruard Houose at a time except at meals.  When one relief will be absent at a time.  See that a relief is absent not more than one half hour. III. See that the Cruard turns out promptly at the approach of any General, the Commanding Officer of the Post, the Commanding Officer of the 54^th Mass Vols, the Officer of the Day or Commanding Officer of the Fort.  IV. See that the Gate is closed at Tattoo and no person will be allowed to pass inside the fort except the Guard and those who may be on duty. V. At the sound of Taps, see that all lights are extinguished and that there is no loud talking, or noise after this time. VI. See that the Quarters of the Guard are kept in perfect neatness. VII. No person except Commissioned Officers, and those officially connected with the Garrison of this Fort will be allowed to enter unless on duty, or having passes signed by proper authority.  VIII. No person will be allowed to walk or stand on the parapet, magazine or other grass spots inside the Fort nor will any one be permitted to lounge inside the Fort. IX. Smoking inside the Fort is positively forbidden. X. See that no person approaches the Magazine who is not authorized to do so. XI. The Guard will not be allowed to sleep on the Parapet or Magazine. XII. The Officer of the Guard will be held responsible for the strict enforcement of these Orders.”  The document has small holes along the central fold but dark writing.  A fine Civil War document.