Profile: Agrippa Hull

Overview:

Agrippa Hull was a free Black soldier who served in the Continental Army during the American Revolution. He was born on March 7, 1759, in Northampton, Massachusetts. At age eighteen, he joined the army and served for more than six years, earning respect for his long service. Hull worked closely with Tadeusz Kościuszko, a Polish engineer who supported the American cause. As his orderly, Hull traveled through major battles and harsh conditions, including the historic winter at Valley Forge. After the war, Hull returned to Massachusetts, where he became a farmer, landowner, and respected member of his community. Though often overlooked in history, his life shows the important role Black Americans played in the founding of the United States. 

Quick Facts:

• Born: March 7, 1759, in Northampton, Massachusetts

• Died: May 21, 1848, in Stockbridge, Massachusetts

• Served over six years in the Continental Army

• Worked as an orderly to Tadeusz Kościuszko

• Witnessed key events like Saratoga and Valley Forge

• Fought in battles such as Monmouth and Guilford Courthouse

• Returned home and became a farmer and landowner

• Lived in Stockbridge, a diverse community with Black and Indigenous residents

• Helped shelter a formerly enslaved child seeking freedom

• Known for his storytelling, humor, and wisdom later in life

Why This Story Matters:

Agrippa Hull matters because his story challenges the idea that the American Revolution was shaped only by white leaders. He served in key battles and worked closely with Tadeusz Kościuszko, helping influence his views on slavery and freedom. Hull’s experiences in the South exposed the harsh realities of slavery, which shaped how others thought about justice. Even after the war, Hull built a stable life as a landowner and community member, showing strength and independence. Yet, his story is often missing from textbooks. Learning about Hull helps us better understand who helped build the nation and why it is important to include voices that have been overlooked 

Legacy:

Agrippa Hull’s legacy is a reminder that many important people in history are often left out. He helped fight for American independence, yet his name is not widely known. After the war, he built a life based on hard work, faith, and community. He owned land at a time when many people, Black and white, struggled to do so. Hull also helped others gain freedom and supported those in need. His story shows that Black Americans were not just present during the nation’s founding—they were active and important contributors. Remembering Hull helps create a more complete and honest view of history.

Unlike some historical figures, Agrippa Hull is not widely featured in films. However, his story appears in historical writing, including work by historian Gary B. Nash, who highlights Hull’s role in shaping ideas about freedom during the Revolution. Hull’s life could be the focus of a powerful film because it connects major events—like battles, slavery, and the fight for independence—to one person’s experience. His close relationship with Tadeusz Kościuszko also shows how ideas about equality crossed cultures and influenced history in lasting ways. 

Discussion Questions:

1. How might future historians judge the stories our generation chooses to preserve—or ignore? 

2. If Agrippa Hull were alive today, what questions would you ask him about his life during the Revolutionary War period?

3. If you were examining a text book or electronic resource, what evidence would you look for to determine whether historical omissions were accidental or intentional? ?

Reflection Prompt:

1. Some people argue that history is not important. Assuming you believe history is important, what three points would you use to convince someone of its importance? 

Sources & Further Reading:

1. “Agrippa Hull.” Profile image courtesy of Stockbridge Library, Museum & Archives. 

2. “Agrippa Hull.” National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior. 

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