Cato Mead: A Revolutionary Echo West of the Mississippi
Unearthing the story of the sole known African American Patriot veteran laid to rest west of the great river.
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Who Was Cato Mead?
A Unique Historical Figure
Cato Mead (also spelled Meed) stands as a singular figure in American history. He is recognized as the only known African American Patriot veteran of the American Revolutionary War to be buried west of the Mississippi River. His final resting place is in or near Montrose Cemetery in Montrose, Iowa.
Uncertain Origins
The precise details of Cato Mead's birth remain somewhat obscured by historical records. Available information suggests he was born around 1762 or 1764, likely in Norwich, Connecticut. His early life was marked by enslavement, a stark reality for many African Americans during that era.
Migration and Final Resting Place
The reasons for Mead's migration westward to Iowa are not definitively documented. However, he passed away on April 25, 1846, at an estimated age of 80 to 82 years. He was interred in or near Montrose Cemetery, a quiet testament to a life lived through pivotal moments in American history.
Revolutionary War Service
Enlistment and Service
Cato Mead enlisted in the Continental Army, serving in Captain John McGregor's Company of the 4th Connecticut Regiment. Historical accounts indicate his service began in 1776 or 1777, with some records specifying an enlistment as a private on March 1, 1778, for a one-year term. His allegiance was to the nascent United States of America.
Valley Forge and Hardship
Mead's service included enduring the brutal winter encampment at Valley Forge from December 1777 through June 1778. It was during this period of immense hardship that he contracted smallpox, necessitating a two-month stay in a Pennsylvania hospital. This experience underscores the severe conditions faced by soldiers of the Continental Army.
Post-War Recognition
Following his military service, records indicate that Mead received soldier's pay amounting to $10.04 for his contributions to the Continental Army in July 1783. This payment serves as a tangible acknowledgment of his service during the formative years of the nation.
Life's Trajectory
Birth and Early Life
Born into enslavement, Cato Mead's early life was shaped by the prevailing social structures of late 18th-century America. While his exact birth year is debated (1762 or 1764), his origins are traced to Norwich, Connecticut. His enlistment in the Continental Army marked a significant transition from bondage to service in the fight for independence.
Later Years and Passing
After the Revolutionary War, Mead's path led him westward, eventually settling in the vicinity of Montrose, Iowa. He died on April 25, 1846, leaving behind a legacy that would later be recognized for its unique historical significance. His occupation is noted as soldier, farmer, and formerly enslaved.
Final Resting Place
Though the precise location of his grave within Montrose Cemetery is unknown, a marker stands in his honor. This memorial serves as a focal point for remembering Cato Mead, the only known African American Revolutionary War veteran buried west of the Mississippi River, connecting the past to the present.
Enduring Legacy
A Singular Distinction
Cato Mead's primary historical significance lies in his unique status. He is the only documented African American veteran of the American Revolutionary War whose final resting place is west of the Mississippi River. This distinction highlights the often-overlooked contributions of Black soldiers and their post-war journeys.
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References
References
- 'Abigail Adams Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution. Revolutionary War soldiers and patriots buried in Iowa. 1978, p. 81
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Important Notice
This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data, primarily the Wikipedia article on Cato Mead, and may not encompass all nuances or the most current historical interpretations.
This is not professional historical advice. The information provided herein is not a substitute for scholarly research or consultation with professional historians. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy based on the source material, historical records can be incomplete or subject to revision. Always consult primary sources and peer-reviewed historical analyses for comprehensive understanding.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.