Jordan Bankston Noble facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Jordan Bankston Noble
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Jordan Bankston Noble in 1886
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| Born | October 14, 1800 |
| Died | June 20, 1890 (aged 89) New Orleans, Louisiana
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| Other names | The Drummer Boy of Chalmette, Old Jordan |
| Occupation | Soldier, public figure |
Jordan Bankston Noble (born October 14, 1800 – died June 20, 1890) was an important African American soldier. He was famous for being a military drummer in the Battle of New Orleans during the War of 1812. Jordan Noble's drum helped send important messages to soldiers during battles. He also served in other wars, like the Seminole Wars, the Mexican–American War, and the American Civil War.
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Early Life of Jordan Noble
Jordan Noble was born in Augusta, Georgia on October 14, 1800. His parents were of African and European backgrounds. He was born into slavery, and his mother was also enslaved. In 1811, when Jordan was about 11 years old, he and his mother moved to New Orleans. They lived in the old Spanish Barracks. Soon after, young Jordan Noble joined the United States Army.
Military Service and Drumming
Jordan Noble in the War of 1812
At just 14 years old, Jordan Noble joined the 7th U.S. Army Regiment in 1812. He served as a drummer. Military drummers were very important in early American wars. They used drumbeats to send orders to soldiers. In the confusion of battle, their drums told soldiers what to do next.
The Battle of New Orleans
The first fight of the Battle of New Orleans happened on December 23, 1814. British forces landed near New Orleans, Louisiana. They set up camp for the night. Major General Andrew Jackson used this chance to launch a surprise attack. Jordan Noble was part of the 7th Army Regiment during this time.
On January 8, 1815, the British launched their main attack on New Orleans. During this big battle, young Noble stayed in his position. He kept playing his drum. His drumming helped the American troops know what to do. It also showed them that the American forces were still defending the city. This was the last major battle of the War of 1812. The Treaty of Ghent had already been signed, ending the war.
Noble's Later Military Career
After the War of 1812, Jordan B. Noble continued his military service. He fought in the Seminole Wars and the Mexican–American War. During the Mexican-American War, he served under Zachary Taylor, who later became president.
Jordan Noble also fought in the American Civil War. He served for both the Confederacy and the Union. He was very patriotic. When the Civil War began, Jordan Noble gathered a group of freed African Americans to fight for the Confederacy. Later, when Union General Benjamin Butler took control of New Orleans, Jordan Noble then formed a group to fight for the U.S.A.
Later Life and Legacy
After his long military career, Jordan B. Noble remained a well-known person in New Orleans. He often took part in parades. People would see him around town playing the same drum he used in the Battle of New Orleans. He would even play the famous drumbeat heard during that battle. After the Battle of New Orleans, Jordan earned the nickname "The Drummer Boy of Chalmette." In his older years, people called him "Old Jordan."
Jordan B. Noble passed away on June 20, 1890. The day after his death, a local newspaper, The Daily Picayune, featured an article about "Old Jordan."
