Haitian Memorial Monument, Savannah

During the American Revolution, France joined the American colonies in their fight against Britain. In 1779, after British forces occupied Savannah, a combined Franco-American army launched an unsuccessful attempt to retake the city.

Among the allied troops were hundreds of free men of African descent from the French colony of Saint-Domingue, now called Haiti. Known as the Volunteer Hunters of Saint-Domingue, they formed one of the largest units of Black soldiers to take part in the American Revolution. Serving under the command of French admiral Charles Henri d’Estaing, they volunteered to fight against the British during the Siege of Savannah.

After the failed attack, many of these soldiers were sent to fight elsewhere. Some did not return home for years, while others never returned at all. Those who eventually did make it back to Saint-Domingue later played an important role in the struggle that led to Haitian independence.

Their contribution to the American Revolution is rarely given much attention in traditional history books, but this monument ensures that their service is not forgotten.

Created by sculptor James Mastin, the Haitian Memorial Monument depicts several members of the unit. Look closely at the young drummer, who represents Henri Christophe. Christophe later became a commander during the Haitian Revolution and, following independence, rose to become king of the newly independent nation.