John Charles Black and William Perkins Black represent important figures not only in the history of Vermilion County and the State Illinois, but also nationally because of their contributions during the latter half of the 1800s and early 1900s. Their significance transcends the recognition that both men received as Medal of Honor recipients from the Civil War.
Rather than characterize these men and their accomplishments using a 21st century retrospective view, the compilation of these Special Collection materials---many of which are contemporaneous with the brothers’ lives and never previously published---is designed to use the lens of documents from the late 1800s to facilitate an understanding of their accomplishments, from their youthful days in Danville, Illinois in the 1850s until their respective deaths in 1915 and 1916. These materials provide insights from their contemporaries and earlier historians. Their accomplishments in public service and their contributions as exceptional lawyers are evident throughout this Special Collection. Special attention has been placed on including various speeches and publications of the two brothers on a wide-range of topics.
This Special Collection is drawn in part from materials at the Abraham Lincoln Public Library and Museum, the Chicago History Museum, the National Archives, various university archives, private collections, and various contemporary newspaper accounts. Included is the most comprehensive group of photos of John and William and their families.
Without presuming the conclusions of those who will take the time to review the materials in this Special Collection, it is hard to imagine that readers will not have a great respect for these two remarkable brothers---not because both received the Medal of Honor but because of the principles, values and patriotism exhibited throughout their lives.
A special thanks for the support and contributions of Larry Weatherford and Tim Smith.
Where required, all permissions have been secured to print or re-print the material contained herein.
CLICK ON PHOTOS AND DOCUMENTS TO ENLARGE.
This website will be updated periodically. Anyone with relevant material may contact Michael Eberhardt at info@blackbrotherscollection.com.