Oldest Gravestone of a Free Black Man Found | Boston News

They just unearthed the oldest known gravestone for a free Black man in the U.S.—Sebastian, aka Boston—buried in Boston’s Granary Burying Ground since 1728 or 1729. Once buried and broken, it was rediscovered during a city conservation project, restored, and returned upright. Once enslaved, he fought for freedom and campaigned to legally marry his enslaved wife, fathering six children—and his battle helped inspire anti-slavery laws. A 1729 newspaper praised him as a beloved, trustworthy neighbor, highlighting how deeply respected he was. This discovery illuminates the overlooked lives of free Black Americans who paved the way for future generations. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/60b99b7ca53c73fa