William Messley of Howard County, Missouri, served as first sergeant of Company in the 67th U. S. Colored Infantry, which was organized on March 11, 1864, from the 3rd Missouri Colored Infantry at Benton Barracks (St. Louis), Missouri. The 67th U. S. Colored Infantry was consolidated with the 65th U. S. Colored Infantry on July 12, 1865, and assumed their designation.

The regiment was mustered out of service on January 8, 1867.

Carte-de-Visite by Unknown Photographer

Image Courtesy Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield; WICR 11510