HIS STORY SPEAKS TO US: HONORING BLACK REVOLUTIONARY WAR SOLDIER OLIVER CROMWELL

Revolutionary War Soldier Oliver Cromwell had 14 children and a multitude of great grandchildren. Wednesday he will be honored at his home; the event will be is teeming with his descendants, modern day neighbors, and history enthusiasts. The City of Burlington and the New Jersey State Society Daughters of the American Revolution [DAR] will co-host the unveiling of the Commemorative Bronze Marker for the "Original Home of Revolutionary War Soldier - Private Oliver Cromwell" at 10am, Wednesday, April 27, 2022, at the 100 block East Union St in Burlington, New Jersey.

DAR’s mission is to raise the visibility of our Patriots creating interest in who they were and enthusiasm for what they accomplished. New Jersey DAR State Historian Deb Hvizdos has spent years researching American Patriots and their contributions to the founding of this great nation. With Private Oliver Cromwell she knew she found a man and his story that needs to be told.

Oliver Cromwell was born in 1753 in Burlington County, New Jersey and lived to be 100 still residing in the county. He served as a private in the 2nd New Jersey Regiment between 1777 and 1783 fighting in many of the battles that eventually lead to American victory and independence. His discharge papers note he received the badge of merit were signed by George Washington. During his later years he sat outside his home on East Union Street engaging with passerby and neighbors alike. It is at this home where the NJDAR honor him. The placing of this marker is in line with the Society's mission of Historic Preservation, Education, and Patriotism.

The City of Burlington is rolling out the red carpet, Main Street is lined with Oliver Cromwell banners and a Fife and Drum corps who will be performing during the day. The Daughters of the American Revolution will be represented by President General Denise VanBuren, New Jersey State Regent Bonnie Matthews and the NJDAR Board of Management. Speakers for the day include Secretary of the U.S. America 250! Commission Lynn Forney Young, DAR Historian General Laura Kessler, family members Jane Fox Long and Pastor Timothy Hutton.  

Revolutionary Patriot Ned Hector has sent word he looks forward to attending the ceremony honoring a fellow Patriot. The color guard representatives from the Sons of the American Revolution, Sons of the Revolution and the Rhode Island 14^th Regiment bring us back in time on historic Union Street.

Reisha Raney, host of Daughter Dialogues is speaking on the “Untold Histories from American Revolution Patriots’ Descendants of Color”. As a DAR member, Reisha works to perpetuate the legacy of all the men and women who achieved independence. The Daughters of the American Revolution is taking a leading role in researching and promoting how diversified participants assisted in the creation of our nation, including those who were African American, Native American and female. DAR is committed to better telling the stories of these Patriots, who have all too often been left out of the pages of history.

Additional information about Private Oliver Cromwell’s military service and history as well as other Patriots can be found on the Daughters of the American Revolution  Patriots of Color online genealogical research database as well as the online DAR exhibit “Remembrance of Noble Actions: African Americans and Native Americans in the Revolutionary War.”

Come out to Burlington, New Jersey join the celebration and learn about our collective American history.