Historic marker honors Revolutionary War patriot Zachariah Jacobs in Wilmington

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY)– The name Zachariah Jacobs might not ring a bell, but his legacy of courage and patriotism is about to live on forever in the Cape Fear region.

The sounds of celebration were two years in the making, as dozens of people attended the historic marker unveiling for Zachariah Jacobs on Third and Grace streets in downtown Wilmington on Monday morning.

Jacobs was a local patriot and one of more than 460 men of color from North Carolina who served during the American Revolution.

Kamicha Graham is a descendant of Jacobs and says it’s an honor to be related to someone who made an impact on the country and Wilmington.

“Over the 400 recognized people of color who fought in North Carolina, Zachariah is becoming only the second in the state — and the first in New Hanover County and Wilmington — to be recognized with such an honor,” said Graham. “It means a lot to us. We are really proud.”

It wasn’t just family. City leaders, educators, speakers and other family members attended the unveiling to honor Jacobs’ wartime accomplishments.

“Zachariah was drafted into the Brunswick County militia. He served in notable battles,” said Graham. “He was captured as a prisoner of war, but that didn’t stop him. He endured and later joined the Continental Army.”

It was a celebration for Jacobs’ descendants, but also for people of all backgrounds.

“His significance in history goes beyond what we typically learn in history books,” said Graham. “He represents the story of American history through the lenses of African Americans and Native Americans. He proudly served his country in its fight for independence.”

Zachariah Jacobs fought in the Battle of Guilford Courthouse in March 1781, one of the most significant engagements of the Southern Campaign.