Massasoit Guards

Petition to the Massachusetts legislature to form a military company called the "Massasoit Guards." Signed by John P. Coburn, Robert Morris, John S. Rock, Lewis Hayden, and others.

The Massasoit Guards were an African-American militia company active in 1850s Boston. Clothing retailer John P. Coburn founded the group to police Beacon Hill and protect residents from slave catchers. Attorney Robert Morris repeatedly petitioned the Massachusetts legislature on their behalf, but the Massasoit Guards were never officially recognized or supported by the state. The group was a precursor to the 54th Massachusetts Regiment.[1]

  1. ^ "Boston African American NHS Park Brochure, Side 2" (PDF). National Park Service.