Timeline

William Barton Captures British General Prescott

The Prescott capture demonstrated American raiding capability behind British lines and provided a prisoner valuable enough to exchange for General Charles Lee.

Rhode Island Recruits First Rhode Island Regiment

Rhode Island's manumission act for military service was the most sweeping legal emancipation of the Revolutionary era — hundreds of enslaved men became legally free in exchange for Continental Army service.

Battle of Rhode Island — First Rhode Island Regiment Holds

The First Rhode Island Regiment's defense at Butts Hill was the most celebrated action of the battle and became emblematic of the Black soldiers' contribution to American independence — men who fought for a freedom the Declaration promised but their society had not yet granted.