samuel j. patterson poses proudly in his. the exact number of black soldiers who served in the civil war is not known but it keeps increasing of present-day researchers find additional names, such as i am doing. 185,000 is the comment estimated number, but it does not include those who are listed in white regiments as underdogs, as my ancestor had. my seventh category, therefore, includes those who are listed under general order 323. on their military record, many are identified as colored. and others as afghan descent or negro or contraband, even servant, depending on their particular state classification. note that black was not used. i found many names in the volumes of the rosters of the civil war soldiers 1851-1855 compiled by broad worth publishers. general orders 323 stated quote, the president of the united states is hereby authorized to cause to be listed for each cook duell allowed by section nine to undercut of african descent -- descent to show received for the full compensation $10 per month and one ration per da