Jack Sisson — The Black Patriot Who Helped Capture a British General 

Militia Volunteer • Revolutionary Soldier • First Rhode Island Regiment

These two images capture the extraordinary moment that brought Jack Sisson into the historical record. The first is an artistic interpretation of Sisson among the men who carried out the daring raid, while the second depicts the capture of British Brigadier General Richard Prescott—the mission in which Sisson played a central role. Together, the images represent courage, determination, and a willingness to take extraordinary risks for the revolutionary cause. They also remind us that the men who carried out some of the Revolution’s most consequential actions did not always leave behind portraits or extensive personal records. Sisson’s story emerges instead through the remarkable action that made his name part of the Revolution’s history.

Overview:

Jack Sisson (ca. 1743 - 1821) was an enslaved African American who became a militia volunteer during the American Revolution. He was enslaved by a man in Rhode Island. Very little is known about his early life, and even his name appears in records as Jack Sisson, Tack, Prince, and Guy Watson. This shows how Black identities were often recorded in unclear or changing ways. Sisson became known for his role in a daring 1777 mission to capture British General Richard Prescott. During the raid, he helped lead the attack and forced open a door to reach the general. He later joined the First Rhode Island Regiment and fought in major battles. After the war, he gained his freedom and lived the rest of his life in Massachusetts.

The story of Jack Sisson appears in many books and lessons about the American Revolution, especially those that focus on the capture of General Prescott. While he is not the main focus in most films, his role is sometimes included in documentaries and educational materials about Black soldiers. These works often highlight the bravery of the raiding party but do not always fully explore Sisson’s identity or background. This shows how even when Black figures are included, their full stories are not always told. Bringing more attention to Sisson can help correct that gap and give students a fuller picture of history. 

Quick Facts:

• Born around 1743

• Born enslaved in Tiverton, Rhode Island

• Also known as Guy Watson, Tack, and Prince

• Described as tall, strong, and physically powerful

• Helped capture British General Richard Prescott in 1777

• Volunteered for a dangerous nighttime raid

• Joined the First Rhode Island Regiment

• Fought at the Battle of Rhode Island and Yorktown

• Gained freedom after the war

• Died in 1821, Plymouth, Massachusetts, around age 78

Why This Story Matters:

Jack Sisson matters because his story shows both courage and the challenges of being Black in early America. He played a key role in an important military mission, yet his name and identity were not clearly recorded. This makes it harder for people today to fully know his life. His story reminds us that Black soldiers helped shape the nation, even when they were not fully recognized. It also shows how history often centers white figures, while others are left in the background. Learning about Sisson helps students question what stories are told and whose contributions are remembered.  

Legacy:

Jack Sisson’s legacy is one of bravery and overlooked contribution. He risked his life in a mission that helped the American cause, yet his story is not widely known. The fact that he had multiple names shows how Black identities were often fragmented in historical records. This makes it harder to trace their lives and honor their impact. Still, Sisson’s actions speak clearly. He was a soldier who helped shape the outcome of the war. His legacy encourages us to look deeper into history and recover the stories that have been lost or ignored.  

Discussion Questions:

1. Why do you think Jack Sisson’s name appears in different ways in historical records?

2. How does missing or unclear information affect how we understand someone’s life and importance?

3. Who should decide which people are included in history classes and textbooks? 

Reflection Prompt:

1. Would there be a different understanding of world history if stories like Jack Sisson’s were included? If so, what does this teach us about the power of education and how those who tell history shape how people see themselves and others? 

Sources & Further Reading:

1. "Jack Sisson (1743?–1821)." Biography Article. BlackPast. 

2. "Pay Roll of Captain Thomas Arnolds Company in 1st Battalion of Rhode Island Forces Commanded by Colonel Greene for the Month of February 1779." Pay Roll. February 1779. MSS 673, Sub-group 2, Series 1, Sub-series A, Box 1, Folder 28. Rhode Island Historical Society. 

3. Legends & Lies: The Patriots. “Forgotten Heroes.” Fox News Channel, 2016. Recommended as supplemental viewing for its dramatized interpretation of African American participation in the Revolutionary War, including Jack Sisson’s involvement in the capture of General Richard Prescott. Historical claims made in the film should be cross-referenced with primary and scholarly sources. The series is narrated by the multi-award winning actor Kelsey Grammer.

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