Revolutionary War Prisoners: A History Festival Talk with Dr. Roger Smith

City to host presentation on Revolutionary War prisoners in St. Augustine

Dr. Roger Smith to speak during St. Augustine History Festival, May 9

On Saturday, May 9, from 10:00am to 11:00am at the Historic Waterworks Building, the City of St. Augustine will host Dr. Roger Smith for a presentation exploring a little-known chapter of the American Revolution, focusing on prisoners of war held in British St. Augustine from 1775 to 1781.

The first prisoners of war during the American Revolution were captured in Virginia and sent directly to St. Augustine. While history often highlights the three signers of the Declaration of Independence who were imprisoned here, Dr. Smith’s presentation will examine the broader story of the more than 2,000 soldiers and sailors who spent the war either incarcerated or on parole in the city, and why St. Augustine became a central location for these prisoners.

This event is part of the St. Augustine History Festival, created by UFHSA (University of Florida Historic St. Augustine, Inc.) to generate excitement about the history of America’s oldest city. Taking place May 6 through May 10, 2026, the festival will showcase every era of St. Augustine’s long and storied past through more than 30 special events and historic venues.

Reservations are not required but seating is limited. Anyone interested in attending is asked to reserve a seat in advance.

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Host or Publisher City of St. Augustine