Mark Codman facts for kids

Mark (died September 18, 1755) was an African-American man who was enslaved by Captain John Codman in Charlestown, Boston, Massachusetts. This was about 20 years before the American Revolutionary War. While some old writings call him "Mark Codman," it's unlikely he was known by that name during his lifetime. Enslaved people in New England usually didn't use their master's last name. Official documents from the time only refer to him as Mark.

Who Was Mark?

Mark was an enslaved person in Massachusetts during the 1700s. He lived in a time when many people of African descent were forced into slavery. His story is a sad reminder of the harsh realities of that period.

Life as a Slave

Mark was enslaved by Captain John Codman for several years. He was able to read, which was not common for enslaved people at that time. Mark's life was difficult, and like many enslaved people, he longed for freedom.

A Tragic Plan for Freedom

In 1755, Mark became involved in a plan that tragically led to the death of his enslaver, John Codman. Mark was seeking a way to escape his situation and gain freedom. This desperate act resulted in serious consequences.

The Outcome and Mark's Legacy

Mark was found guilty of being involved in his enslaver's death in 1755. As a result, he was executed in a place that is now part of Somerville, Massachusetts. Mark's sister, Phillis, was also found guilty and executed.

Years later, in 1775, the same spot where Mark was executed became important during Paul Revere's Midnight Ride. Paul Revere rode through this area to warn American colonists about the British Army's movements. In his own account, Revere mentioned seeing British officers near the spot where Mark had been executed, showing how this location was a known landmark. Mark's story, though tragic, is a part of the larger history of slavery and the fight for freedom in America.