Welcome
This project explores the lives and service of Black Loyalists—men who sought freedom by joining British forces during the American Revolutionary War. Centered on the story of Nelson Hackett, this digital archive presents a searchable database of soldiers recorded in British pay lists, offering insight into their roles, movements, and continued struggle for freedom.
About This Project
Through the organization of historical pay records and archival sources, this site reconstructs the presence of Black Redcoat defenders within the British military. Each individual in this collection is presented as a unique record, allowing users to explore patterns of service while also recognizing the humanity and agency of each soldier.
Visit the About the Project page to learn more.
Explore the Database
Browse and search the collection of soldiers:
- Search by name
- Filter by rank, regiment, or service
- View individual records with compiled service entries
Featured Focus: Nelson Hackett
Nelson Hackett’s story reflects both the promise and limits of Black Loyalist freedom. After escaping enslavement in Virginia and joining British forces, Hackett became part of a larger movement of Black refugees seeking liberty through imperial protection. His later recapture underscores the fragile and contested nature of that freedom.
Why This Matters
The experiences of Black Loyalists challenge traditional narratives of the American Revolution. Their decisions, service, and migrations reveal a history shaped not only by empire and war, but by the pursuit of autonomy and survival.
This project highlights:
- The role of Black soldiers in the British war effort
- The use of pay lists as historical evidence
- The importance of digital archives in recovering marginalized histories
Begin Your Search
Start exploring the lives behind the records and uncover the stories of Black Redcoat defenders.
Browse Items | Search the Collection
