Billy Lee was one of George Washington’s slaves who, despite his condition of servitude, became a central and important figure for the Continental Army.
All tagged Black Patriot
Temporary Freedom - York and the Corps of Discovery
York was the one Black man who joined the Corps of Discovery in their journey to the Pacific Ocean.
The Father of Black Freemasonry - Prince Hall
Prince Hall was a Black Patriot who supported the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War but focused most of his life toward the abolition of slavery.
Preaching Abolition - Lemuel Haynes Breaks Barriers
Lemuel Haynes was the first Black man to be licensed as a preacher in the early United States..
Proving Intelligence Defies Race - Benjamin Banneker Confronts Jefferson
Benjamin Banneker was the first Black American to become famous as a scientist and used his platform to publicly discuss civil rights with the leaders of his day.
The Hero Blacksmith That Purchased His Freedom - Gilbert Hunt
Gilbert Hunt was a slave who saved a dozen lives at the Richmond Theatre Fire before going on to purchase his freedom and live a fascinating life.
The Highest Ranking Native American in the Continental Army - Colonel Louis Cook
Joseph Louis Cook was the only person of Black heritage to be named an officer in the Continental Army.
Absconded From the Household of the President - Ona Judge's Escape
Ona Judge was a slave of the Washington’s who escaped to freedom while George was President of the United States.
Pomp Springs - Portsmouth's 'Gentleman from Africa'
The life of Pomp Springs highlights the forward thinking nature of the residents of Portsmouth, NH during the American Revolution.
Salem Poor Rejoins A Desegregated Continental Army
Salem Poor was an African American soldiers in the Continental Army who distinguished himself for service in the Battle of Bunker Hill.