Peter Salem

Peter Salem, a formerly enslaved man from Framingham, Massachusetts, played a crucial role in the American Revolutionary War and is best known for his heroism at the Battle of Bunker Hill. Born in 1750, Salem was enslaved by Jeremiah Belknap, a Framingham landowner. He was later sold to Major Lawson Buckminster, who ultimately freed him so he could enlist in the Continental Army.

As tensions between the American colonies and British forces escalated, Salem joined the local militia, participating in the Battles of Lexington and Concord on April 19, 1775. Shortly after, he fought at the Battle of Bunker Hill on June 17, 1775, one of the most significant early conflicts of the Revolution. According to historical accounts, Salem is credited with firing the shot that killed British Major John Pitcairn, a key enemy officer. Pitcairn’s death was a pivotal moment in the battle, boosting American morale even as they were eventually forced to retreat.

Salem continued his service throughout the war, fighting in several key battles, including the Battles of Saratoga and Stony Point. His dedication to the revolutionary cause, despite having been born into enslavement, highlights the often-overlooked contributions of Black soldiers in America’s fight for independence.

After the war, Salem returned to Massachusetts and lived in Leicester. He worked various jobs, including as a weaver and a cane maker. Despite his military service, he, like many Black veterans, struggled financially and was not granted the recognition or support he deserved. He spent his final years in poverty and passed away in 1816.

Today, Peter Salem’s legacy is honored in Framingham and beyond. A monument at the town’s Old Burying Ground commemorates his contributions, and his story is preserved as an example of the bravery and sacrifice of Black patriots in the American Revolution. His role in the fight for independence serves as a lasting reminder of the diverse individuals who helped shape the nation’s history.