William Williams (soldier) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William Williams
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William Williams wearing a U.S. Army uniform during the War of 1812
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| Born |
Frederick Hall
c. 1793 |
| Died | September 13, 1814 (aged 21) Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.
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| Occupation | slave, soldier |
| Military career | |
| Allegiance |  United States |
| Service/ |
 U.S. Army 38th U.S. Infantry Regiment |
| Years of service | 1814 |
| Rank | private |
| Battles/wars | War of 1812
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Frederick Hall was an African American man who used the name William Williams. He had been a slave but bravely ran away to join the U.S. Army. He fought as a private, which is a regular soldier, during the War of 1812. Sadly, he was badly hurt while defending Fort McHenry from British attacks in 1814 and later died.
A New Life: Joining the Army
Frederick Hall was a slave at Bellefields Plantation in Croom, Maryland. In early 1814, he made the brave choice to escape.
Even though the British offered freedom to slaves who joined their side, Frederick chose to join the United States Army. He enlisted in mid-1814 and was given the name William Williams. He joined the 38th U.S. Infantry in Baltimore. He received $50 for joining and earned $8 each month.
Fighting for Freedom
In September 1814, the British attacked Fort McHenry in Baltimore. This was a very important battle during the War of 1812. Private William Williams was fighting to defend the fort.
During the intense fighting, a cannonball hit William Williams. He was severely wounded when his leg was blown off. He was taken to a hospital in Baltimore but died two months later from his injuries. He was only about 21 years old.
William Williams, also known as Frederick Hall, showed great courage by escaping slavery and fighting for his country. He gave his life defending Fort McHenry during the War of 1812.
Images for kids
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Bellefields Plantation in Croom, Maryland, where Frederick Hall lived as a slave.
See also
