POSTPONED ~ A Black Soldier’s Revolutionary War Experience (In-Person)

POSTPONED – NEW DATE TO BE DETERMINED SOON

MTL’s History Close to Home Series

Watch history come to life as Historian Kevin Johnson presents: A Black Soldier’s Revolutionary War Experience. This moving and memorable reenactment depicts the real-life experiences of Jordan Freeman, an African American man who helped defend Fort Griswold and New London during the Revolutionary War.

Historians estimate the number of Black soldiers in the Revolutionary War to have been about 5,000 men. Black soldiers served in militias, seagoing services, and support activities, including nearly 500 soldiers from Connecticut. Some enlisted because they felt it was their duty; others because they were offered their freedom in return for satisfactory completion of a set period of service.

The presentation is based on extensive research in the collections of the Connecticut State Library and the Museum of Connecticut History at 231 Capitol Ave, opposite the State Capitol in Hartford.

About Our Presenter  

Kevin Johnson works in the History and Genealogy Unit of the Connecticut State Library. He has been presenting historical figures for more than 20 years, and has given more than 600 presentations. The Connecticut State Library provides high quality library and information services to state government and the citizens of Connecticut. It also preserves and makes accessible the records of Connecticut’s history and heritage. The focus of the Museum and its collections is Connecticut’s government, military and industrial history. Permanent and changing exhibits trace the growth of the State and its role in the development of the nation from the Colonial era to the present. Additional information about the State Library and the Museum of Connecticut History can be found at ctstatelibrary.org.