Oliver Cromwell (American soldier) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Oliver Cromwell
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|---|---|
| Born | May 24, 1752 Black Horse, Province of New Jersey (now Columbus, New Jersey) |
| Died | January 1853 (aged 100) Burlington, New Jersey |
| Buried |
Broad Street Methodist Church, Burlington, New Jersey
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| Allegiance |  United States |
| Service/ |
Continental Army |
| Years of service | 1777–1783 |
| Rank | Private |
| Unit | 2nd New Jersey Regiment |
| Battles | |
| Awards | Badge of Military Merit |
Oliver Cromwell (born May 24, 1752 – died January 1853) was an African-American soldier. He fought in the American Revolutionary War. He was born a free black man in Black Horse, New Jersey. This area is now called Columbus. He grew up on a farm and worked as a farmer.
Contents
Oliver Cromwell's War Service
Fighting for Freedom
Private Cromwell served in the Continental Army. This was the army that fought for America's independence. He was part of the 2nd New Jersey Regiment. He served from 1777 to 1783.
Key Battles and Victories
Cromwell fought in many important battles. These included the Battle of Trenton in 1776. He also fought at the Battle of Princeton in 1777. Other battles were Short Hills and Brandywine, both in 1777. He was also at the Battle of Monmouth in 1778. His last major action was the siege of Yorktown in 1781. This was the final big battle of the war.
Leaving the Army
After the war ended, Cromwell left the army. General George Washington himself signed Cromwell's discharge papers. Washington also gave him a special award. It was called the Badge of Merit. This was a very important honor.
Life After the War
Applying for a Pension
Years after the war, Cromwell applied for a veteran's pension. A pension is money paid regularly to someone who has retired. Even though he could not read or write, many people helped him. Local lawyers, judges, and politicians supported his request. He was granted a pension of $96 a year.
Building a New Life
With his pension, Cromwell bought a 100-acre farm. This farm was located outside Burlington, New Jersey. He had 15 children. He spent his later years at his home in Burlington.
His Final Years
A Long Life
Oliver Cromwell passed away in January 1853. He lived to be 100 years old. He outlived 14 of his children and one grandchild. He is buried in the cemetery of the Broad Street Methodist Church.
His Legacy Today
Cromwell left behind many children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His family still lives in Burlington today. In 2022, the Daughters of the American Revolution honored him. They placed a plaque on his home. This plaque celebrates his service to the country.
Some people believe Cromwell might be in a famous painting. This painting is called Washington Crossing the Delaware. However, it is not certain if he is truly in the picture.
