Sandy Point Farm: William Evans, Soldier and Sailor

History: William Evans, a 22-year-old slave of Capt. Thomas Mezick, the owner of Sandy Point Farm, enlisted in the 30th Regiment, United States Colored Troops, in March 1864, thereby gaining his freedom. He joined 122 other slaves who were inspired by a USCT company camped at St. John’s College in Annapolis.

Evans transferred to the U.S. Navy on April 11, 1864. In 1870, he was listed in the census as an Annapolis-area “sailor.”   
               

As a border state, Maryland continued to sanction slavery during the war until a new state constitution abolished it on November 1, 1864. Free blacks could enlist in the U.S. Army, and prior to emancipation, thousands of slaves fled to seek refuge with Union troops. 

Evans was among many Maryland blacks, enslaved and free, who fought in the Civil War (8,718 in the USCTs). By early 1864, slaveholders such as Mezick were promised reimbursement for any slave who enlisted.

More to Explore: Sandy Point State Park’s beaches and picnic areas are well known for their breathtaking scenic water views that overlook the Chesapeake Bay. One of the premier locations for accessing the bay near Annapolis, the park offers swimming beaches, picnicking, hiking, fishing, crabbing, boating, boat rentals and a marina.

While in the area, explore downtown Annapolis’ historic district and waterfront. Shops and restaurants line the streets, and guided tours are available from private tour companies or the Historic Annapolis Foundation. Stop by State House Circle to wonder at the colonial architecture and national significance of this historic landmark. A museum depicts Colonel George Washington’s tenure here when it served as the nation’s first capitol building.

Photo Credits:

1. African American and white sailors standing on the deck of a ship.
2, St. John's College Barracks