1875 - 1886 - Served in the 44^th, 45^th, 47^th, 48^th, and 49^th U.S. Congresses

During consideration of a bill to reduce and restructure the Army Smalls introduced an amendment to integrate regiments which stated,

“Hereafter in the enlistment of men in the Army . . . no distinction whatsoever shall be made on account of race or color.”

The amendment was not considered.

Introduced petitions in favor of women’s suffrage.

Steadfastly labored to maintain Port Royal as a Federal naval base and to improve its condition..

Parris Island at Port Royal is now site of the U.S. Marine Corps Recruit Depot.

After several petitions to Congress failed, Smalls was awarded an additional $5000 in prize money

for Planter as the ship was found to have been previously undervalued.