Stories of Black and Indigenous Patriots Come into Focus as US Remembers the American Revolution

April 20, 2026

The Lexington Minutemen reenactors commemorated the 251st anniversary of the Battle of Lexington, which sparked the American Revolution, with special attention paid to Prince Estabrook, an enslaved Black man who fought and was wounded in that battle. As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, museums, historical organizations, and programs across the nation are working to highlight the contributions of over 5,500 patriots of color—including Black and Indigenous fighters—who participated in the Revolutionary War but were largely excluded from traditional historical narratives. These efforts include museum exhibits, documentary films, and grants from MA250 that fund projects like Boston's "Patriots of Color" exhibition featuring 26 Black and Indigenous Revolutionary War participants.

Who is affected

Prince Estabrook and other Black and Indigenous patriots who fought in the American Revolution
Jason Roomes and other descendants of Revolutionary War patriots of color
Communities of color whose historical contributions are being overlooked or censored
Charlie Price (95-year-old Black Korean War veteran who portrayed Estabrook for 50 years)
The Lexington Minutemen reenactment group
Black Heritage Trail in Concord
American Ancestors nonprofit organization in Boston
Museum visitors and students learning about American history
Beneficiaries of MA250 grants across Massachusetts

What action is being taken

The Lexington Minutemen are marking the anniversary of the Battle of Lexington with reenactments on the Lexington Green
MA250 is handing out millions of dollars in grants to commemorate Revolutionary War battles across Massachusetts
American Ancestors is opening its "Patriots of Color" exhibit next week in Boston
Museum exhibitions celebrating Black patriots are being developed and displayed
Programs nationwide are telling more complete stories of patriots of color through exhibits, documentary films, and lectures
The Trump administration is ordering the removal or censorship of exhibits highlighting slavery, enslaved people, the Civil Rights Movement, and mistreatment of Indigenous people

Why it matters

These efforts are significant because they correct a longstanding incomplete narrative of American history that excluded the contributions of over 5,500 Black and Indigenous patriots who fought for independence. Recognizing these contributions is essential for communities of color today, as historian Roger Davidson Jr. explains that when groups are not seen as having contributed to society, they can be overlooked in present-day political, social, and economic contexts, reinforcing existing biases. The emerging "more accurate view of the past" showcases the diverse collection of men and women who played critical roles in the fight for freedom, countering the traditional idealized narrative that focused solely on white leaders. This historical recognition validates descendants like Jason Roomes and demonstrates that these communities have deep roots in American history and the founding of the nation.

What's next

Descendants of patriots of color will attend the opening of the "Patriots of Color" exhibition next week at American Ancestors in Boston. Charlie Price continues to attend the annual early morning reenactment each year to keep Prince Estabrook's story alive and ensure people know about his contributions to the country.

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint