The Oxford Historical Society will present Kevin Johnson as Jordan Freeman at 2 p.m. Saturday, November 7 at the Great Hill United Methodist Church Hall, 225 Great Hill Road in Seymour.
Jordan Freeman was an African American servant of John Ledyard and the body servant of Col. William Ledyard in the Revolutionary War. Freeman was a native of Old Lyme. Although he did not enlist himself, he witnessed key events of the War for Independence while with Col. Ledyard.
Historians estimate there were about 5,000 black soldiers in this war, serving in militias, seagoing services and support activities, including about 500 from Connecticut. Some enlisted because they felt it was their duty; others because they were offered their freedom in return for satisfactory completion of a set period of service.
The presentation is based on extensive research in the collections of the Connecticut State Library and the museum of Connecticut History in Hartford.
Kevin Johnson is an employee of the State Library's History and Genealogy Unit. He has been portraying Jordan Freeman for about 17 tears. Previously he reenacted the life of Pvt. William Webb, a black soldier in the Civil War, and Professor Jim Williams, a beloved Trinity College figure.
Admission to the program is a $5 donation. Students of all ages will be admitted free of charge. A question-and-answer period will follow Johnson's performance and refreshments will be served. Those seeking more information may call 203-888-0230.
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