Portsmouth

RI · American Revolution

The Battle of Rhode Island (August 1778) was fought partly on Portsmouth ground and featured the First Rhode Island Regiment — the first Black military unit raised in North America.

Portsmouth, RI

Events

Stories

Connections

American Revolution

Portsmouth's role in the American Revolution.

Emerging

0/100

0People3Events1Stories

*[needs_review — scaffold only]*

KEY EVENTS

Full Timeline →

Battle of Rhode Island — First Rhode Island Regiment Holds

Aug 1778

→

Rhode Island Recruits First Rhode Island Regiment

Feb 1778

→

William Barton Captures British General Prescott

Jul 1777

→

STORIES

All Stories →

HISTORICAL VOICE

Freedom for Service

The men of the First Rhode Island Regiment were promised freedom in exchange for their lives. Rhode Island would compensate their owners; they would get their liberty — if they survived. Hundreds enli...

View changes for this town Inquire about partnering

History Happened Everywhere.

Explore every town where the American Revolution unfolded — sourced, documented, and connected.

Browse All Towns