(ca. 1750-1816) African-American Soldier: Salem was born a slave in Framingham, Massachusetts, but was given his freedom when he enlisted in the Continental Army. He fought at Concord, Massachusetts on April 19, 1775, the opening day of the Revolutionary War. Salem is best known for having fought in the Battle of Bunker Hill, and is believed to have killed the first Englishman in the battle, Major John Pitcairn. The gun which he is thought to have used is preserved at Bunker Hill in memory of this deed. Salem served with credit in the colonial forces, but died in the poorhouse.
portrait — Peter Salem
Peter Salem
1750–1816
(ca. 1750-1816) African-American Soldier: Salem was born a slave in Framingham, Massachusetts, but was given his freedom when he enlisted in the Continental Army. He fought at Concord, Massachusetts on April 19, 1775, the opening day of the Revolutionary War.