The Historical Society of Washington County, Virginia is honored to welcome Arthur (Scrapper) Broady as the featured presenter for the 2026 Annual Meeting and Dinner. In a powerful and educational living-history presentation, Mr. Broady will portray his sixth great-grandfather, John Brodder (also spelled Broady), an African American patriot and enslaved man who served during the Revolutionary War. A retired educator, Air Force veteran, and respected community leader in Southwest Virginia, Broady is also recognized as the first African American male athlete at Emory & Henry College (now known as Emory & Henry University). Through his portrayal, he brings to light an often overlooked chapter of American history, sharing the story of his ancestor’s service and sacrifice while honoring a legacy formally recognized by his 2017 induction into the Sons of the American Revolution.

John Broddy played a documented role in several key moments of the American Revolution. He served as the personal aide to Colonel (later General) William Campbell throughout the war. In that position, he accompanied Campbell into the heart of the fighting at the Battle of Kings Mountain on October 7, 1780. After the death of Campbell in 1781, Broddy returned to the family farm in Virginia where he was formally emancipated in 1793 by Campbell’s daughter and son-in-law. Local historical records suggest John Broddy lived to be 109 years old, eventually passing away in Saltville, Virginia.