Said to have been born in Africa, Dick Freedom was a Revolutionary War soldier who was enslaved by a member of the Royce family in Wallingford. Unlike many other Black soldiers, he did not gain his freedom when he returned home after the war. Rather it is believed he was sold to a minister in Waterbury. Eventually he did find freedom, and he lived to an advanced age in Waterbury, where he owned his own property and was said to be a favorite among local children. The powder horn he used during the war and likely decorated himself is on display at the Nehemiah Royce House.