Jack McElroy

Forgotten Angels Jack McElroy

Unheralded heroes.


Thousands of African American women nursed soldiers and refugees during the Civil War. Yet they seldom were given the respected title of "nurse," and because many could not read or write, their stories went unrecorded.


Forgotten Angels recounts the histories of seven of these remarkable women, who endured racism and sexism while struggling to build a brighter future for their country, their families, and themselves. Based on extensive research yet told in an easily readable style, this book brings to life heroic role models who have too long been overlooked in the study of the Civil War.


Learn how:


Susie King Taylor joined the fight when she was just 13 years old.
Charlotte Forten gave up a life of luxury to help the freed people.
Rebecca Lee Crumpler became the first African American woman doctor.
Harriet Tubman led a raid on Rebel plantations and freed 750 people.
Sallie Daffin brought the races together after terrorists burned her schoolhouse.
Sojourner Truth desegregated the Washington streetcars while working as a nurse.
Ann Stokes helped start what became the Navy Nursing Corps.


These women stand as models of the courage, commitment, and faith it took to build a new America during and after the Civil War.


Forgotten Angels also includes:


More than 60 photos illustrating this tumultuous era.
Lists of key figures and important concepts.
Recommendations of places to visit to learn more.
Books by the nurses or their friends, and a comprehensive bibliography.


Easy to read for middle-grade students and up, Forgotten Angels is an ideal complement to classroom lessons. Based on extensive research, it also is a great way for anyone to discover a seldom-taught chapter of American history.


These stories are more important than ever. Don't wait.


Read these inspiring tales now to better understand the world we live in today.