sons of the american revolution

Men of what age were likely to have served as soldiers during the American Revolution?

It’s a good rule of thumb that if your ancestor was “of age” during the American Revolution, they likely participated in the Revolution in some way. Yet, many of us look for soldiers. How do we determine which ancestors were likely to have fought? Local law can actually be a hint. Connecticut, for example, requiredContinue reading “Men of what age were likely to have served as soldiers during the American Revolution?”

How can Revolutionary War claims help me document my ancestor’s service?

The American Army had limited resources going into the Revolutionary War. They borrowed goods, supplies, and even food. People had their homes and business damaged by the American Army – or the British. Many of those who lost money or property as a result later filed claims against state governments. These Revolutionary War claims filesContinue reading “How can Revolutionary War claims help me document my ancestor’s service?”

Revolutionary War taxes, Boston

The Boston Public Library has digitized tax lists for 1780, 1782, and 1783. Although these tax lists are from the Revolutionary War period, they can’t automatically be used as “proof” of service for the Sons or Daughters of the American Revolution. Why? Because we don’t know when and how the tax money was employed. ToContinue reading “Revolutionary War taxes, Boston”

Research and resources on Connecticut’s patriots of color

This list will be updated. Please check back for updates! “Jack Congo,” E Pluribus Unum (https://honoringourpatriots.dar.org/patriot-profiles/jack-congo/: accessed 10 March 2023). Jamie H. Eves, ““Faithfully to Serve”: Jesse & Job Leason, African American Soldiers in the Revolutionary War,” Windham Textile and History Museum (https://millmuseum.org/job-jesse-leason/: accessed 10 March 2023). Mary Harrell-Sesniak, “Hammet Achmet: Washington’s Waiter & RevolutionaryContinue reading “Research and resources on Connecticut’s patriots of color”

Why does my ancestor’s residence matter?

Most Revolutionary War companies were recruited locally. Although a regiment may have contained companies from multiple towns or counties, a company was generally organized from residents of one locale. This makes knowing your ancestor’s residence key… Why? If your ancestor didn’t reside in the county or town from which the company was recruited, it’s unlikelyContinue reading “Why does my ancestor’s residence matter?”