EXETER NH: On Juneteenth 2023, Pvt. Jude Hall finally had his name engraved in stone. Fife and drum music rang out, muskets saluted, and huzzahs were cheered all the way around.
The engraving reads: Jude Hall, 3rd NH, 1775-83
On this first Federal commemoration of Juneteenth, US Senator Maggie Haasan spoke on the granite staircase of the American Independence Museum, on which Jude Hall’s name is now engraved. She delivered a heartfelt and powerful speech about honoring Pvt. Jude Hall for his long service in Revolutionary War, his two grandsons’ service in the Civil War, and also the tragedy of his three sons who were kidnapped and sold into slavery.
To have this engraved stone presented in a high-profile public location indicates to all that his contributions and tribulations are acknowledged and honored.
After many days of rain, the sun shone down on the crowd of men, women, and children who came to witness. Members of the Exeter Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution were in attendance, as well as reps from the Racial Unity Team, and various US Service Veterans. Local cable channel, Exeter TV, filmed the event. (See their YouTube channel.)
Exeter, NH was the capital of NH during the Revolutionary War period, and the nation will be marking the 250th anniversary of the struggle in 2026. Of course, Exeter will have many events during that year-long commemoration. Jude’s story now takes its rightful place in the history of our nation.
Make a plan to spend some time in 2026 in Exeter, NH. Check out the website of the American Independence Museum and see what other great events they are planning!
And yes! This step was purchased using the profits from my series of four local mysteries, which features some historical Black citizens of Exeter’s yesteryear. So THANK YOU for making the granite step possible!!! Huzzah!!
If you want to buy more books and gift them to your friends – they are in stock at the Water Street Bookstore, or online at Amazon.
Thanks for reading ~ RM Allen
RM-Allen.com 