Nov 6: Milan Revolutionary War Veteran Andrew Frazier

Sunday,  November  6  at  2:00  PM
Starr  Library,  68  West  Market  Street,  Rhinebeck  12572
The  story  of  Andrew  Frazier, African  American  Revolutionary  War  Veteran,, Milan  landowner  and  patriarch

Born around 1742 at Morrisania, the Manor of the great Morris family near New York City, Frazier would

be swept up in the powerful currents of land patents and speculation of the 18th century and the

Revolutionary War. See how he brieﬂy intersects with Rokeby’s Senator, Ambassador and Secretary of

War, John Armstrong, Jr. Frazier’s descendants would include a pioneering woman who would break

racial barriers in New York City at the turn on the 19th century and also be recognized for bringing

comfort and service to WWI veterans. We’ll look at the importance of what we memorialize, and why 19

headstones of the Frazier family in Rhinebeck Cemetery, curiously adjacent to Section E, the section

dedicated to the burial of persons of color, are an important touchstone into three centuries of personal

and community lessons.

Bill Jeffway is the former Milan town historian and Co-Chair of the Milan Bicentennial Committee.

Andrew Frazier was originally buried (as was common practice) on his farm in Milan, but was at some time removed to Rhinebeck Cemetery with other family members.

Susan “Susie” Frazier, a great-granddaughter lived in Milan through the 1940’s.

Susan Elizabeth Frazier, a great-granddaughter, was the first person of color allowed to teach white students in New York City in 1893.

John Armstrong, Jr., while living at Rokeby in the 1830’s, reference Andrew Frazier in testimony to the government given both were supporting the pension application of the widow of Wm Stewart. Armstrong was a US Senator, Ambassador to France and Secretary of War under President Madison.

Andrew Frazier could not read or write so marked and “x” that would be witnessed.

Photo of the vicinity of the Frazier farm in Milan

(Frazier house not visible) courtesy of Jack Campisi.

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