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How the Chasseurs-Volontaires Shaped America’s Revolution SAVANNAH’S HIDDEN HEROES
The sounds of battle echoed through Savannah in 1779 — a mix of musket fire, harried shouts, and the clash of steel. It would become known as one of the most disastrous fights of the American Revolutionary War (1775-1783). Among the soldiers fighting to free the city from British control were the Chasseurs-Volontaires de Saint-Domingue, a regiment of free Black men from what is now Haiti. They had traveled across the ocean to fight in a war that wasn’t their own, yet their courage left a lasting mark on history. And few people know they even existed. It wasn’t until I recently took a trip through Savannah’s historic areas that I discovered a statue in their honor in Franklin Square. As I read the plaque at the base of the sculpture, I was stunned to learn that a regiment of Black soldiers had fought in the American Revolution right here in
Georgia. The Chasseurs-Volontaires were the largest Black regiment to serve in the war, and with 545 soldiers, they were the largest military unit to serve in the Siege of Savannah. So, how has this incredible piece of history been overlooked? With the anniversary of the start of the American Revolution in April, I wanted to spotlight the seldom-commemorated contributions of African Americans on the battlefield, particularly during the Siege of Savannah, an important battle of the war. It’s a fascinating story right here in our backyard that highlights the bravery, sacrifice, and overlooked role of Black soldiers in America’s independence. The Chasseurs-Volontaires de Saint-Domingue came to Savannah in 1779 to aid the Franco- American force to retake Savannah, which had fallen under British control the previous year. It marked a significant turning point in the British army’s war strategy, shifting their focus to the South. The American side and their French allies were losing momentum, and the Chasseurs would go on to fight on the front lines, providing vital cover. Though many of the soldiers were inexperienced in large-scale warfare, they held their ground against the seasoned British troops. The siege failed and was one of the highest casualty battles fought in the revolution — some 800–1,000 allied soldiers were killed, wounded, or captured. The soldiers who made up the Chasseurs regiment came from many walks of life; some of them enlisted to express their patriotism and others for pay. Though these men were legally free, some were not when they first
enlisted. Military service was a way to escape a “liberty tax” in
Saint-Domingue that charged them a large amount of money upon being freed. After the war, members of the Chasseurs-Volontaires would become key figures in Haiti’s own fight for independence over the next 25 years. We will likely never know all the names and histories of the brave men who fought with the regiment in Savannah, as few records are left. But, on the Franklin Square memorial, a statue of a drummer boy represents Henri Christophe, who would later become the first leader of independent Haiti in 1804. He was likely a young teen when he joined the regiment and participated in the siege. Though African Americans contributed to the war efforts during the American Revolution, their stories are widely untold but have an important place in history. The first casualty of the revolution was Crispus Attucks, a Black man who was shot and killed during the Boston Massacre in 1770. His death ultimately became a powerful symbol of the growing revolution. Like the Chasseurs, his contributions and those of other Black soldiers are often minimized in the broader narrative of the country’s founding. Next time you walk through Savannah’s Franklin Square, I encourage you to pause and reflect on these unsung heroes.
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Remembering the TV Moms Who Helped Us Grow Up TV Moms We Know and Love
Moms are unsung heroes, providing us with love, support, discipline, and happy memories. They shape, nurture, and teach us some of life’s most valuable lessons. But for many of us, it wasn’t just our real-life moms who made a difference. Our beloved TV mothers have been there throughout the years, guiding us through trials and triumphs. This Mother’s Day, we’re rewinding to some of our favorite TV moms who helped shape our view of motherhood and changed the landscape of television forever. Julia From ‘Julia’ (1968) Julia Baker (Diahann Carroll) was a trailblazer, becoming the first African American female lead on a sitcom called “Julia.” As a professional registered nurse and widowed mother caring for her young son Corey, she broke barriers, showing the power of perseverance. Her husband, who died an honorable death in Vietnam serving our country, was a symbol of sacrifice and added depth to her journey. Julia’s groundbreaking role shattered the stereotypical portrayals of African Americans in the media at the time, paving the way for more diverse representation. Her significance was far-reaching, with Julia appearing on lunchboxes and even having a Barbie doll sponsored by Mattel, a rarity in that era. Carol Brady From ‘The Brady Bunch’ (1969–74) The wholesome, sweet, yet liberated Mrs. Brady (Florence Henderson) from “The Brady Bunch” remains one of television’s most beloved mothers. She always had words of wisdom and love for everyone in her large, blended family, letting them learn from their mistakes while always offering a warm hug through the tough stuff. Florida Evans From ‘Good Times’ (1970s) Florida Evans (Esther Rolle) was the superglue that kept the Evans family together in the 1970s sitcom “Good Times.”
American nuclear family. It even launched Janet Jackson’s career. Shirley Partridge From ‘The Partridge Family’ (1970–74)
Shirley Partridge (Shirley Jones) was the lead singer and matriarch of “The Partridge Family,” showing the world that a single mom can have a career, family, and fun. A widow raising five
children, she was the mom, bandleader, role model, and symbol of independence that kept her family together. With warmth and wisdom, she redefined what it meant to be a working mom on television. Elyse Keaton From ‘Family Ties’ (1982–89) Elyse Keaton (Meredith Baxter) was the ultimate career mom. A successful architect, she and her husband raised their three children in the Reagan-era ’80s. In “Family Ties,” she taught her kids to think for themselves, and even though she didn’t always agree with them, she supported them. Strong and loving, she was an independent thinker who prioritized her family. Clair Huxtable From ‘The Cosby Show’ (1984–92) Clair Huxtable (Phylicia Rashad) was the embodiment of “America’s mom” — a successful lawyer, wife, and mother of five who balanced her demanding career and family obligations with grace and strength. As the leading figure of America’s family in the 1980s, she proved moms could be both powerful professionals and loving, nurturing figures. She was a positive symbol of ambition and perseverance, always available with insightful advice. Clair represented the ideal mother many aspired to emulate and the wife many desired, making her a strong role model for generations. Vivian Banks From ‘Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ (1990–96) Vivian Banks (Janet Hubert/Daphne Maxwell Reid) from the “Fresh Prince” was nurturing, beautiful, wise, career-minded, and caring. She had the soul of an artist, worked hard as a professor, and often played mediator between Phil and Will. Aunt Viv was strong and tender, giving advice that helped us all grow into well-adjusted adults. She always brought a spark of humor, stuck to her personal goals, and inspired her family.
Through their family’s challenges, she remained upbeat and generous. Even after the death of her husband, Florida’s strength and kindness prevailed and ultimately lifted the family. “Good Times” was an important and influential moment in Black popular culture that tapped into the realities and real issues of the time for African Americans, giving an intimate look into the dynamics of the African
As you reflect on their contributions, consider how your mom has impacted you and which fictional mother figures left a lasting mark on you.
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Getting Outside Can Help You Feel Better WOOD YOU BE-LEAF IT?! Positive Brain Stimulation When you spend time outdoors, taking in the
Many of us neglect our mental health because we’ve desensitized ourselves to stress, instead teaching ourselves to “white knuckle” through the day. However, if you knew a better way to manage your stress, you could loosen the reigns more, right? Well, when was the last time you spent some time outside? Whether it’s going on a hike, tending to your garden, or riding a bike, research reveals the positive effects on your mental health Everyone occasionally falls into a “funk.” And while it’s normal to experience that mood at times, it shouldn’t be a constant feeling. A 2010 study revealed that exercising in nature for just five minutes improved self-esteem and overall mood. Experiencing nature often makes people feel grounded and more connected to the Earth, leading to feelings of happiness and a sense of purpose. A separate study revealed that participants who went on nature walks had increased positive emotions after the walk. of spending time outdoors. Improved Overall Mood
sunlight and fresh air, your body releases the feel-good hormone serotonin in return. Many antidepressant medications work by
inhibiting reabsorption of this key neurotransmitter. Additionally, sunlight activates melatonin release, which helps regulate our internal clock. The more sunlight we get each day, the more our bodies know when it’s time to go to bed.
Enhanced Focus and Attention Whether at home or in the office, our brains can go a mile a minute, focusing on everything except the task at hand. While you’re supposed to be working on a PowerPoint presentation,
your brain thinks about the new tire you need and the pile of dirty dishes in the sink. A 2020 study found
that spending time in nature can calm the mind, allowing for enhanced focus. Further studies on outdoor play settings stated that children with ADHD were calmer after playing in green spaces than in other settings.
‘Cheesy’ Cashew Queso
INGREDIENTS
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2 large poblano peppers, halved and seeded
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1/2 tsp ground coriander 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
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1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
2 cloves garlic, pressed
1/2 tsp pepper
1 cup cashews
2 cups water, divided 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
2 tsp chili powder 1 tsp ground cumin
DIRECTIONS
1. Heat broiler. Add poblanos face down to a rimmed baking sheet and broil for 4 minutes or until charred. Transfer to a bowl, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes. Then, remove skin and cut into 1/4-inch pieces. 2. In a saucepan, heat oil and garlic on medium heat for 1 minute. Remove from heat and stir in cashews and spices. 3. Return saucepan to heat. Add 1 1/2 cups water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes or until cashews are tender. 4. Put contents of saucepan in a blender and add yeast and 1/2 cup of water. Purée until smooth. 5. Pour mixture back into saucepan and simmer 7 minutes or until thickened, stirring occasionally. 6. Fold in poblanos and serve with chips.
SPOTLIGHT
Inspired by GoodHousekeeping.com
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE The Brave Black Soldiers Who Fought for Freedom page 1 Why These Famous Moms Are Superheros page 2 The Effects of Getting Outdoors on Our Mental Health page 3 ‘Cheesy’ Cashew Queso page 3 Pit Stops Along the Alaska Railroad You Can’t Miss page 4 All Aboard the Alaska Railroad! Why Traveling Alaska by Train Beats the Cruise Ship
While Alaskan cruises get all the buzz, traveling the Last Frontier by train offers an equally breathtaking — and perhaps more intimate — experience. With panoramic views, unforgettable pit stops, and access to remote regions, the Alaska Railroad delivers a journey unlike any other. Imagine gliding through the rugged wilderness in a GoldStar Dome car, where glass ceilings offer a 360-degree view of snow-capped peaks and glistening glaciers. For the adventurous, the outdoor viewing platform lets you immerse yourself in the stunning scenery while breathing in the clean, crisp Alaskan air. Whether you choose the premium GoldStar class or the more budget-friendly Adventure Class, you’ll be awed by Alaska’s natural beauty. The Alaska Railroad operates year-round with five seasonal routes, each brimming with wonder. The Coastal Classic is any traveler’s
dream, winding from Anchorage to Seward along the Turnagain Arm waterway. Highlights include spotting bald eagles and hopping on a boat at Resurrection Bay to explore Kenai Fjords National Park, famous for its orca whale sightings. For those drawn to Denali’s majesty, the Denali Star is your ticket. This flagship route connects Anchorage to Denali National Park, offering stops like Talkeetna, a charming artsy town and basecamp for climbers scaling Denali. It’s a 12-hour journey of awe-inspiring landscapes and rich history. The Glacier Discovery route takes you south from Anchorage to Girdwood, Whittier, and the Spencer Glacier. Whittier is a standout destination with its sleepy charm and world- class Alaskan fish. This train provides remote access to places you can’t reach by car, making the trip a unique experience.
And if you’re looking for an offbeat adventure, the Hurricane Turn and Aurora Winter trains cater to locals and intrepid travelers alike, offering stops by request and transporting you into the heart of Alaska’s untamed backcountry. With the Alaska Railroad, the journey is as memorable as the destination. Whether you’re marveling at wildlife, enjoying a sit- down meal, or booking excursions to explore iconic landmarks, every mile of track is packed with adventure.
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