Prince Estabrook was an enslaved Black man born around 1740-1741, likely in Lexington, Massachusetts. He was owned by Benjamin Estabrook, a local farmer and grist mill operator. Estabrook is historically significant as the first Black soldier to fight in the American Revolutionary War

. On April 19, 1775, Estabrook was among the Lexington militia (Captain John Parker’s Company) who confronted British troops at the Battle of Lexington, the opening conflict of the war. During this skirmish on Lexington Green, he was wounded-likely in the shoulder-making him the first Black soldier injured in the Revolution

. He recovered and continued to serve in the Massachusetts militia and the Continental Army through 1783, participating in various regiments and battles, including guarding Continental Army headquarters during the Battle of Bunker Hill

. Following the war, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruled slavery incompatible with the state constitution, effectively abolishing it. As a result, Estabrook was freed and lived as a free man, continuing to reside with or near the Estabrook family before eventually moving to Ashby, Massachusetts, where he died around 1830

. His contribution to American history lies in his role as a pioneering African American combatant who fought for liberty despite being enslaved, symbolizing the complex struggle for freedom by Black patriots during the Revolution. In 2008, Lexington honored him with a monument near Buckman Tavern recognizing him and other Black soldiers long denied recognition

. Summary:

• Enslaved Black man born circa 1740 in Lexington, Massachusetts
• First Black soldier to fight and be wounded in the American Revolution (Battle of Lexington, 1775)
• Served in militia and Continental Army through 1783
• Freed after Massachusetts abolished slavery post-war
• Honored with a monument in Lexington in 2008 for his pioneering role and service

Prince Estabrook’s story highlights the vital but often overlooked contributions of Black soldiers in the founding struggle of the United States