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New Hampshire Magazine
Honoring an unsung patriot
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Raised in an era known for the trade of sugar and slaves, Wentworth Cheswill became the first African American elected to public office. Like Paul Revere, he rode as a messenger for the patriotic cause. He was also an early archaeologist who donated books and funds to establish his community’s first library. I believe his story could inspire generations, if only people knew about it. 
When it occurred to me that Cheswill’s 275th birthday was on the horizon (this April), I dreamed of a community toast. Church bells would chime as families stepped from their homes to honor him in the street. Unfortunately, that was only a dream, because no one knew who he was. When I looked him up, he was marginalized as the Black Paul Revere if mentioned at all. Cheswill’s birthday would go unnoticed unless I did something about it. So, I started with my children. ....

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