Barring military service by black men was a double insult, questioning courage and competence, while denying a claim to equal rights.
“On their return from victory they may march up State Street over the spot consecrated by the martyrdom of Crispus Attucks, amid the plaudits of admiring citizens.”
– William Cooper Nell on the prospect of recruiting black soldiers
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- Massachusetts Archives
The Militia Law
Massachusetts law allowed only “white male citizens” to serve in the militia. Nineteenth century militias were, in part, social organizations with comic opera uniforms, dinners, and balls. During the crisis years of the 1850’s their military purpose became more important. In 1853 Robert Morris appeared before a legislative committee to advocate authorization of black units. The legislature was unmoved. Black activist William Watkins called the hearing “a humbug, a legislative farce.”
- Massachusetts Archives
A History of Service In an 1850 lecture William Cooper Nell made the connection between the ideals of the American Revolution and the quest of African-Americans for equal rights. He went beyond a philosophical argument to document the service of black soldiers in American wars. Beginning with the Boston Massacre, he identifi ed Crispus Attucks, of black and Native American ancestry, as the fi rst to die in the American Revolution.
Massasoit Guards
A period ad for Nell’s history of African-American military service.
- Houghton Library, Harvard University
Documents recount service
Many documents recount the service of black veterans and some provide vivid detail. In June, 1776, Chester Parker of Dracut addressed the Provincial Government in Watertown. He fought “In the Battle called the Bunker Hill” and discharged his “firelock” seventeen times. “Wounded by a Ball from the Enemy in his Knee” he was carried away and requested funding to replace his lost musket.
- Massachusetts Archives