Honoring History and Heroes: A Tribute to Prince Rodgers, the U.S. Colored Troops, and 9/11 Remembrance in Bridgewater
Prince Rodgers was born into slavery right here in Bridgewater in 1815, and was freed in 1839. His story didn’t end there—he answered the call of duty and served in the United States Colored Troops, a brotherhood of men who fought not only for the Union, but for the very principles of equality and justice.
During the event, I learned that the United States Colored Troops played an invaluable role in shaping the course of the Civil War. Over 130 regiments of infantry, 6 regiments of cavalry, and dozens of artillery units were formed, with Black men from many states stepping forward to serve. It is believed that around 1,500 Black men from New Jersey alone fought in that war, with 680 of them in the 22nd United States Colored Troops.
To delve deeper into the powerful history of the U.S. Colored Troops, I encourage you to watch the video I took and posted of one of the reenactors sharing their story. You can find it on my Facebook page, Filipe Pedroso - Bridgewater.
I also want to thank Lorayn Allen and The Prince Rodgers Foundation for cleaning up and preserving the Prince Rodgers cemetery and for hosting this event.
Now, shifting to another solemn moment in our nation’s history—I’d like to take a moment to express my gratitude to Mayor Moench for once again leading a poignant September 11th remembrance ceremony here at Town Hall. On that fateful day, nearly 3,000 souls were lost, and countless more lives were forever changed by the terror attacks. This year, the Girl Scouts Troop 60029, in collaboration with our dedicated Town staff, placed 2,977 flags along Woodlawn Avenue adjacent to the Administration Building. These flags stand as a powerful and heartbreaking reminder of those we lost on September 11th. But let’s not forget—if we were to place a flag for every son, daughter, mother, father, brother, sister, and friend who had a loved one ripped away from them that day, the flags would stretch far beyond this Town Hall, and still, it wouldn’t capture the enormity of the loss.
Bridgewater itself lost six of its own that day—Noel Foster, Ronald Tartaro, Lance Tumulty, Thomas Polehemus, Evan Baron, and Allison Wildman. We honor their memory as part of a community that stands united in the face of tragedy, and forever committed to remembering.
