The story is a work of fiction and nonfiction, part history, part journey of discovery, all grounded in historical fact. This former slave from the rebellious South, begins to look back over his life going into retirement as he recollects his early slave years, his daring escape, his Union Army service credibly posing as a free white man (blacks were barred from serving in the Cavalry), in the 15th New York Cavalry, the famous “Red Neckties”, commanded by General George Armstrong Custer, his falling in love, his marriage, his children, and his life after the war. Through his eyes and memories, we see the early years that shaped him, follow the adventure of his break for freedom, his dangerous travel by means of the Underground Railroad, and feel his suffering, defiance, and growing dedication. We are drawn into a spellbinding narrative of an extraordinary life, and a portion of our American past. Astonishingly, William Cooper, this former slave, is himself present at Appomattox Courthouse on the morning of April 9, 1865, to personally bear witness to the end of the Civil War and the abolition of slavery, including his own bondage.