Cato Mead facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Cato Mead
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Cato Mead cemetery marker to an unknown grave in Montrose Cemetery
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| Born | 1762 or 1764 |
| Died | April 25, 1846 (aged 80-82) |
| Resting place | In or near Montrose Cemetery, Montrose, Iowa |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | soldier, farmer, slave? |
| Known for | Being the only known African American, Patriot American Revolutionary War veteran buried west of the Mississippi River |
| Military career | |
| Allegiance |  United States |
| Service/ |
 United States Army Continental Army |
| Years of service | 1776 or 1777 - ? |
| Rank | Private |
| Unit | Captain John McGregor's Company, 4th Connecticut Regiment |
| Battles/wars | American Revolutionary War |
Cato Mead (born around 1761, died 1846) was a brave soldier. He is known as the only African American veteran of the American Revolutionary War buried west of the Mississippi River. His grave is in or near Montrose Cemetery in Montrose, Iowa.
Contents
Who Was Cato Mead?
Cato Mead's exact birth year is not fully known. He was born around 1761 or 1762. Some records suggest he might have been born in Norwich, Connecticut. It is not entirely clear if he was a former slave before joining the army.
Joining the Fight for Freedom
Mead joined the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. This was the army that fought for America's independence. He became a private in the 4th Connecticut Regiment. This unit was led by Colonel John Durkee. Other records show he joined Captain John McGregor's Company. He enlisted in 1778 for one year.
Hardships at Valley Forge
Cato Mead served at Valley Forge. This was a very difficult winter camp for the Continental Army. It was from December 1777 to June 1778. While there, he got smallpox, a serious disease. He spent two months recovering in a hospital in Pennsylvania.
Life After the War
After the war, Mead received payment for his service. This happened in July 1783. It is not known why he moved to Iowa later in his life. He passed away on April 25, 1846, when he was about 80 to 82 years old.
His Legacy Today
Cato Mead's exact burial spot is unknown. However, a special marker stands in Montrose Cemetery. This marker honors his service and sacrifice. It reminds us of his important role in American history. He represents the many brave Black Patriots who fought for freedom.
