Enlisting early in March of 1863, Alexander Hill would join Co A, 54th Regiment. In addition to his duties at camp, he was also a member of the band. Unfortunately, we do not know what instrument Hill played. On the day of July 18, his musical career would come to an end. 
During the Battle of Fort Wagner, Hill would be shot twice: once between his second and third fingers on the left hand and also on his right side. He would soon recover enough to be sent back to fight against the Swamp Angel battery. #FindThe54th
It was there on August 9, 1864 where he was accidentally bayoneted through his Achilles tendon by a fellow 54th soldier jumping down from a parapet. Even with these injuries, Hill would not be medically discharged until July 12, 1865. #FindThe54th
In his discharge records, it indicates that he expressed an interest in joining the US Army Reserve Corps. Whomever was writing the narrative noted that “because soldiers of his color are not allowed in it” that avenue was closed to soldiers like Hill. #FindThe54th
Returning to his home in Hudson, NY, Hill would go through the process of petitioning for an increase in his pension many times. While $8/month was over 1/2 of what he got paid in the Army, his injuries to his left hand rendered it “almost useless for purposes of manual labor.”
The doctor in this report, however, concluded that it was “not equal to the loss of a limb” and therefore no increase was approved. Hill also had an issue in obtaining acceptable witnesses to his injuries which might have helped improve his chances for an increase.
While Charles H. Whitford and Thomas E. Platner were both privates in Co. A of the 54th Regiment, an officer’s statement was needed for verification. Unfortunately for Hill, though, no officers from the 54th Regiment could be found by his lawyer to testify on his behalf.
All these issues aside, though, Hill was still very proud of his service. The unofficial badge shown in the photo commemorated the battles that he served in. These items would be sold commercially to veterans who would wear them on anniversaries and at other events.
The badge today is part of the Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift from the Liljenquist Family Collection and on display in the Museum.
Do you know where Alexander Hill or another member of the 54th Regiment is buried? We are trying to #FindThe54th! Leave a photo in the comments or send an email with information to BOST_Rangers@nps.gov! Help us find the 54th! #FindThe54th
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