Caesar Tarrant facts for kids
Caesar Tarrant (1740–1797) was a skilled American boat pilot. He fought for the Patriots during the American Revolutionary War. Even though he was born into slavery, his amazing piloting skills helped him gain his freedom after the war.
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Growing Up in Hampton
Caesar Tarrant grew up in Hampton, Virginia. This town was known for its many river boat pilots. Even though he was enslaved, Caesar learned how to steer boats through the local rivers. His skill became so good that when he was sold, his price went up because he was such a talented pilot. Caesar married Lucy, who was enslaved by a different owner. They had three children together.
Fighting in the Revolutionary War
In 1775, Lord Dunmore, the governor of Virginia, tried to get people to fight against the American revolutionaries. He offered freedom to enslaved people who would fight for the British. Hundreds joined him, but Caesar Tarrant chose to fight for the American Patriots instead.
The Virginia Navy hired Caesar as a pilot. He served on several ships during the war. In 1778, while on a ship called the Patriot, Caesar took part in a battle near the Virginia Capes. This area was very important for the navy. Caesar skillfully out-maneuvered and rammed a British ship called the Lord Howe. Both sides were hurt, and the British ship got away. However, Caesar's captain praised him, saying he "behaved gallantly." This means he acted very bravely.
Freedom After the War
Caesar Tarrant served in the state navy for three years. After the war, he returned home to Hampton. The new American government had not promised freedom to enslaved people who fought for the Patriots. So, Caesar remained enslaved. After his owner died in 1784, Caesar was passed on to the owner's daughter.
In 1789, the Virginia General Assembly decided to buy Caesar Tarrant and set him free. This process is called manumission. The purchase was completed that same year. Once he was free, Caesar began working to free the rest of his family.
Caesar Tarrant's Legacy
In his will, written in 1796, Caesar Tarrant left his property in Hampton to his wife, Lucy. Half of it was to go to their daughter Nancy after Lucy's death. His son Sampson also inherited some property. Lucy later sold part of the estate to buy their daughter Lidy's freedom from slavery.
Two schools in Hampton were named after Caesar Tarrant. Cesar Tarrant Elementary School closed in 2015. Cesar Tarrant Middle School was renamed in 2018. It used to be called Jefferson Davis Middle School. The change happened partly because of strong feelings against the 2017 Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Virginia.
