Soldiers of African descent – enslaved and freed – fought against tyranny alongside colonial patriots who called themselves the Portsmouth Sons of Liberty. It was a fight that did not guarantee freedom for enslaved soldiers. Some who were sent to war by their enslavers received a bounty that, in turn, could be used to buy their freedom. Others were self-emancipated volunteers with the British.

This tour of 18th-century Portsmouth is offered from the perspective of Black men who served New Hampshire in the Revolutionary War, some of whom lived in Portsmouth and surrounding towns. Learn about Black soldiers and their families working with their neighbors and fellow veterans built a tight-knit community that survived well into the 20th century.

Sankofa Scholar & Tour Guide: Angela Matthews