Slaves of the American Revolution
Austin Dabney (Slave)
1765-1830
Austin Dabney was a slave from Georgia. To redeem his freedom, Austin served in the patriot army. While in battle, Austin was shot by a British soldier's rifle. The ball went through his thigh and he was unable to walk for the rest of his life. Due to his injury he was unable to serve any longer. Because of his injury he was unable to redeem his freedom and worked loyally for a family for the rest of his life.
Phillis Wheatley
Phillis came to America as a slave girl in 1761, she would go on to become the first African-American to publish a book, a collection of poetry, titled 'Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral (1773)'. Phillis was encouraged to write by the family of John Wheatley for whom she worked. The Wheatley's set Phillis free in 1773. She published another volume of poetry, but she had many difficulties and was unable to support her three children. Phillis died at the age of 31, in 1784. Her work remains an inspiration for many
African-American writers today.
African-American writers today.
Salem Poor
Salem Poor was called a brave and gallant soldier by a petition of 14 officers after his actions in the Battle of Bunker Hill. Salem Poor was born in Andover, Massachusetts, as a slave. Salem bought his own freedom in 1769 for 27 pounds. He got married and had a son, but left his family to volunteer in the cause of the revolution, and fought at Saratoga and Monmouth and Bunker Hill. At this historic battle he shot and killed, a lieutenant colonel of the British army. Salem Poor was honored with a stamp celebrating the United States'
Bicentennial in 1975.
Bicentennial in 1975.
Colonel Louis Cook
Louis Cook fought against the British army. George Washington, The leader of the Army, Gave him the nickname "Colonel Louis". Louis Cook participated in many attacks on the British troops, sometimes leading from the front. In March, 1778 Cook was sent to destroy British ships at Niagara. He received his commission from Continental Congress, as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Continental Army, and was the first and maybe the only African-American to be awarded this high a rank, during the revolution.
Jack Sisson
Jack Sisson played an important role in the capture of British General Richard Prescott. In July 1777, Sisson was part of the forty armed Continental soldiers led by Colonel William Barton who cut across British controlled waters to sneak up on Prescott. Some accounts suggest he used his own head to break in Prescott's door and capture him. Sisson also served as the pilot for one of the boats in this mission.
Website dedicated to Mr. Viens