“The Fight for Freedom:” Black experiences of the American Revolution in The Bronx

For British colonists, Liberty and Freedom were motivating principals that sparked the Revolution.  While people of African descent were highly motivated by these ideals, their road to realizing them was uniquely challenging.  As a people who were mostly enslaved, attaining basic human rights was a more urgent concern than taxes on tea and the jurisdiction of the British Parliament.  But the chaos and violence that gripped this area created opportunities for brave and desperate Black men and women to claim their freedom–as soldiers, as deserters, and as spies.

Join local historian Nick Dembowski for a presentation that delves into historical documents revealing how Black people experienced the Revolution in today’s Bronx.  This includes new research about local figures and landmarks such as the little-known “Negro Fort.”

This free presentation will take place in person at the Van Cortlandt House Museum and live-streamed over Zoom on Thursday February 26th at 7:00 PM.  This is a joint presentation of Van Cortlandt House Museum and the Kingsbridge Historical Society.  To get the Zoom link register for the event on Eventbrite here: [link will be provided closer to the event date].

This program is supported, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council.

The Kingsbridge Historical Society and VCHM’s programs are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.