Historical Background
First Michigan Sharpshooters
The First Michigan Sharpshooters was one of the most unique regiments of the American Civil War. Organized in 1863, it included Company K, composed primarily of Anishinaabe (Odawa, Ojibwe, and Potawatomi) soldiers from Michigan. Corbin LaCroix’s story begins with these men. Their service, sacrifices, and experiences form the foundation of the novel.
Corbin LaCroix, our fictional protagonist, was 22 years old when he joined Co. K in the spring of 1863.
William “Chid” Duvernay was 13 years old when he enlisted with John Kedgnal (Duvernay), his older nephew (18) in Company B of the First Michigan Sharpshooters in December 1862. They were the only Anishinaabek who were not in Company K.
Edwin V. Andress was 25 years old when he became the captain of Company K. He could speak Anishinaabemowin (the Odawa/Ojibwe language) fluently. He was wounded in battle and was one of the few soldiers in Company K who were photographed during the war. He was pictured sitting against a tree with other Company K soldiers who were wounded.
The photograph of wounded Company K soldiers is a colorized original. The photograph of Chid is an AI rendering of what he might have looked like as a drummer; it was based upon a photo of him playing a violin. The other photos are AI representations.