Milford Soldiers Memorial
The Memorials to Black Soldiers in Milford, Connecticut, commemorate six African American patriots who served during the American Revolutionary War. These historic markers—located in Milford Cemetery and in front of First Baptist Church—stand as testaments to the contributions of Black soldiers who fought for liberty, even when denied full citizenship and recognition themselves.
Their presence on the Connecticut Freedom Trail emphasizes the importance of community remembrance, historical truth, and the honoring of overlooked heroes in American history.
Milford’s Role in the American Revolution and Black Military Service
Scattered across Connecticut are the unmarked or little-known graves of African Americans who fought for freedom during the Revolutionary War. In Milford, efforts to honor these soldiers resulted in two public memorials:
- Milford Cemetery Memorial
Located on Prospect Street, this site includes a white memorial stone at the base of a monument to Revolutionary War prisoners. Listed are the names of six Black soldiers from Milford:
- Job Caesar
- Pomp Cyrus
- Juba Freeman
- Peter Gibbs
- William Sower
- Congo Zado
These names reflect the legacy of African Americans who fought in a war for independence while still bound by systemic oppression.
- First Baptist Church Memorial
Dedicated in 1976, this secondary marker stands at 28 North Street, just blocks from the cemetery. It was installed by the local Black congregation of First Baptist Church as a visible statement of respect and recognition. This memorial highlights how African American communities have long taken responsibility for preserving their own history in the face of mainstream neglect.
This site is open to the public and can be visited
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Milford Cemetery
Prospect Street
Milford, CT 06460
