Cathay Williams: the First Black Woman to Enlist in the United States Army

Kathy Williams was the first black woman to enlist in the U.S. Army, serving as William Kathy during the American Indian War. Born in 1844, she was impressed into the Union Army in 1861 as a cook and washerwoman. In 1866, she enlisted as a man in the 38th Infantry, serving for two years before her gender was discovered. After discharge, she lived in Pueblo and applied for a pension, which was denied. Her death date remains unknown.

Who was the first black woman to enlist in the United States Army?

What role did Kathy Williams serve in the Union Army before enlisting as a soldier?

In what year did Kathy Williams enlist in the Army under the name William Kathy?

What challenges did Kathy Williams face while serving in the Army?

What was the outcome of Kathy Williams' pension application filed in June 1891?