February 19 @ 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Join us on Wednesday, February 19th, at 6:30 PM for a compelling lecture as part of the Battle of Rhode Island Association lecture series, made possible by a grant from RI State Legislator Senator Linda Ujifusa.
In partnership with the Portsmouth Historical Society, the Middle Passage Port Marker Project, and the NAACP Newport, we are honored to present historian John Dower for a special Black History Month event titled The 1st Rhode Island Regiment of 1778: What Was the So-Called Black Regiment, and What Did They Do at the Battle of Rhode Island?
Who were the men of the 1st Rhode Island Regiment, and how was this unit formed? What role did they play in the Battle of Rhode Island What is their lasting historical significance?
Join us to explore these questions and more in this engaging presentation. We will also be joined by a special guest, Jason Roomes, a 1st Rhode Island Regiment reenactor and descendant of a soldier from the unit. He will be present in full uniform to provide additional insights and answer questions.
Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding of an important chapter in Rhode Island’s history!
This event is free and open to the public!
About the Speaker: John Dower
John Dower is a public historian and Past President of the Cocumscussoc Association/Smith’s Castle in North Kingstown, Rhode Island. He holds an M.A. in American History from Stony Brook University and is an active member of both the National Council on Public History and the Organization of American Historians.
With a deep passion for historical research, Dower’s work focuses extensively on the First Rhode Island Regiment, also known as the “Black Regiment”, which played a pivotal role in the American Revolutionary War. His expertise brings valuable insight into this important chapter of history.