Edward “Ned” Hector was a free Black man who served as a bombardier and teamster in the Continental Army. He fought in the Battle of Brandywine as part of Proctor’s 3rd Pennsylvania Artillery. When American forces were forced to retreat under heavy British attach, many soldiers abandoned their equipment to save themselves. Hector famously refused. “I will save my horses or perish myself!” he reportedly shouted, successfully driving a wagon loaded with guns, supplies and his team of horses to safety.

Noah Lewis has become one of the nation’s most compelling historical educator-reenactors, using his portrayal of Ned Hector to illuminate a forgotten legacy of Black patriotism and bravery during the American Revoluation.