New Jerseyans from all walks of life faced difficult choices during the American Revolution, and people of African descent were no different. Where they decided to place their loyalties, however, often depended on situations that were complex and nuanced.
 
The stories of Revolutionary Neighbors like Colonel Tye, Jacob Francis, Oliver Cromwell and Prime show just a few of the factors that affected their choices. Some enslaved African Americans served the Continental Army or local militias in hopes of earning their post-war freedom, often to find their personal battle far from over. Freed black men fought according to their conscience, either in support of the young United States or Great Britain. Others ran away to join the army of their choice.
 
Several Crossroads Heritage Partners are focusing on the African American experience this month with programs like these:
 
The Abraham Staats House hosts the annual Tory Jack Day on site and online this year on February 12, honoring the 18th century household’s enslaved man who reportedly spied on the British for American forces during the Revolution.  Historic interpreter Joe Becton returns to share the story of the U.S. Colored Troops and Juneteenth, Civil War to Reconstruction. More information. 
 
Historian and Crossroads’ Revolutionary Neighbors project leader Larry Kidder shares the Revolutionary World of a Free Black Man: Jacob Francis during a February 13 lecture at Washington Crossing Historical Park. Spanning years before, during and after the American Revolution, Francis’ life offers a fascinating look into the changes affecting both enslaved and free Blacks of the era. More information.

On Februarly 17, Liberty Hall Museum’s Virtual Third Thursday lecture, Uncovering the History of the Enslaved, invites you to discover the history of slavery at the home of William Livingston. Stories and narratives of the enslaved are revealed through the site’s historic resources and ongoing research at Kean University. More information and reservations.