Who Was Prince Estabrook? Remembering Lexington’s Black Patriot

Visitors to Lexington are often drawn to iconic historic sites like the Battle Green, Buckman Tavern, and more, all while learning about the Battle of Lexington. Amid these familiar Revolutionary War landmarks stands a vital figure in our town’s history: Prince Estabrook, a Black soldier whose courage reflects the complexity and diversity of early American life.

Prince Estabrook was born around 1740 in Lexington, most likely into slavery as property of the Estabrook family, whose farm lay just east of the town center. Under Massachusetts law at the time, people of African descent were not permitted to train as militia, but in an emergency, they were expected to “turn out” to defend their community.

On the early morning of April 19, 1775, when the British regulars marched into Lexington on their way to Concord, Prince joined the local militia mustering under Captain John Parker on the Lexington Green. During the brief but fateful clash with British troops, Prince was struck in the left shoulder, making him one of the first Black soldiers wounded in the American Revolution.

Following his recovery, Prince continued to serve throughout the Revolutionary War. He saw additional service with various Massachusetts militia units, and fought in the Battle at Bunker Hill, and Ticonderoga. Prince returned to Lexington as a free man, through the third Quock Walker Case, which abolished slavery in July 1783. His exact path to freedom was a reflection of the shifting legal and social landscape of the time period.

Where to Learn More in Lexington

Visitors interested in Prince Estabrook’s story can explore several sites and resources in town:

• Buckman Tavern & Lexington Battle Green: Just steps from the Green, look for the Prince Estabrook Memorial, a plaque and monument dedicated in 2008 that honors his service and commemorates other Black patriots whose contributions have long been overlooked.

• Special Events: The Lexington History Museums, Lex250, and other organizations around town often plan lectures and exhibitions that highlight the diverse participants of April 19, 1775, including Prince Estabrook. Check out event calendar to find out what’s happening during your visit.

• Lexington Visitors Center Animated Video Series: The Visitors Center has a video highlighting the story of Prince Estabrook which is played on loop in the diorama room. Come by and talk with a Tourism Advisor to learn more!

Why His Story Matters

Prince Estabrook’s life brings depth to the Revolutionary era by illustrating how the struggle for American independence intersected with the harsh realities of slavery and racial hierarchy. His service reminds us that people of African descent fought, endured, and contributed to the founding of the United States long before the nation fully embraced ideals of freedom and equality.

For visitors to Lexington, taking a moment to learn about Prince at the memorial near Buckman Tavern or through local exhibitions or events adds an important and meaningful layer to the story of April 19, 1775. His legacy is woven into the fabric of this town’s history and continues to inspire deeper conversations about liberty, inclusion, and remembrance.