The Kept Private -

An Untold Tale of the Revolution 

Join us for a dramatic reading that reveals the struggle of a 93 year old African American man to claim his rightful pension for 3 years of service in the Revolutionary War, through the Battles of Harlem and White Plains. Based on real events, this compelling narrative, produced by Storyhorse Documentary Theater, is free for students and educators.

Born about 1742, Frazier, definitively served in the military from 1775 – 1778. As a wagon team leader he first transported enemy munitions to be melted down for patriot re-use before becoming a body servant for Colonel Morris Graham. He was among the troops that marched from Pine Plains to Tarrytown, from West Point to Sing Sing as part of the Battle of Harlem where he also marched to New York City at the time that the British took possession. He was also was part of the retreat of colonial troops through New Rochelle and Rye, and in the Battle of  White Plains. But his quest to receive remuneration for his service was challenging as this play demonstrates, particularly because he was black and likely enslaved at the time of his service.

Delve into a rarely discussed chapter of New York State’s Revolutionary War history. Excerpts of the Kept Private were presented on December 8 as part of the launch for Revolutionary Westchester 250 and received tremendous praise.

Seating is limited to 150 guests per performance and pre-registration is requested. The play is appropriate for High School students as well. Talkback with the actors and directors after the play.

Performances:

Saturday, February 9, Matinee at 3pm and Evening at 6:30pm

February 10 at 3pm

Free for JHC members, students and educators

$10 per person General Admission

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STORYHORSE DOCUMENTARY THEATER was created by Jeremy Davidson and Mary Stuart Masterson. Based in New York’s Hudson Valley, our stories are inspired by transcribed conversations with the people of our communities, historical documents, and other primary sources, focusing on the social, political, environmental and medical issues we face. Our stories are brought to life by actors in concert-style readings. storyhorsetheater.org.

 

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