Message From President General John Dodd
Thousands of African Americans, both free persons of color and enslaved, supported the American Revolution. Estimates range from 5,000, to over 10,000, African Americans participated in the Revolution in various ways. African Americans fought in every major battle in the Revolution, beginning April 19, 1775, and continuing on through Yorktown. They served in the Continental Army, in militias and at sea. The SAR welcomes as members proven descendants of Black Patriots who, by force of arms or rendering material aid, contributed to the Patriot cause.
There are many resources available to assist you in researching your Black Patriot Ancestor. Some are linked here, as well some background information. We also present a few SAR members’ stories of their African American Patriot Ancestor. Please contact your local SAR chapter for help in documenting your SAR lineage. Other SAR members have expertise in this specialized genealogical research and are ready to assist local chapters. Please join us in celebrating the contributions of your African American ancestor to the Patriot cause by becoming a member of the SAR.
John L. Dodd President General 2023-2024
Forgotten Patriot: Pvt. Cuffee Clapp Grandison by Ric Murphy
Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society
Free African Americans in Colonial Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Maryland and Delaware
Forgotten Patriots Project of the Society of the First African Families of English America
