Jordan Bankston Noble

Jordan Bankston Noble also known as Jordan B. Noble (October 14, 1800 – June 20, 1890) was an African American soldier and public figure who is best known for his role as a military drummer in the Battle of New Orleans during the War of 1812. Noble's drum played a crucial role in relaying his commander's orders during the surprise assault against the British forces on December 23, 1814, and the main British advance on January 8, 1815. Jordan Noble also served in the Seminole Wars, Mexican-American War under Zachary Taylor, and the American Civil War for the Union.

Early life Jordan Noble was born in Augusta, Georgia on October 14, 1800, to African and European parents. Military drummers in early American warfare were used to convey orders, and in the fog of war, it was their drumbeats that informed soldiers what to do next.

The Battle of New Orleans The first firefight of the Battle of New Orleans took place on the evening of December 23, 1814. The British forces, led by Admiral Alexander Cochrane and General John Keane landed just outside of New Orleans, Louisiana, where they decided to make camp for the night. As the British troops set up camp and waited for the remainder of their forces to join them, Major General Andrew Jackson used this opportunity to launch a surprise attack by water and land. His role in the Civil War was due to his extreme patriotism. At the outbreak of the Civil War, Jordan Noble raised a company of freed African Americans but, like all other black companies in the South, were never mustered into Confederate service. After the fall of the city to Admiral Farragut on 25 April 1862, the Native Guard served for a short time as provosts maintaining order in the city until General Butler landed on 1 May and disbanded the unit. Later, Jordan Noble raised a company and served as a Lieutenant for a short time in the 2nd Regiment of the Louisiana Native Guard in the U.S. Army.

Later life and death After his military career ended, Jordan B. Noble continued to be a prominent fixture in New Orleans culture. He would participate in parades, be seen around town playing the same drum he used in the Battle of New Orleans and would even recreate the famous drumbeat that was heard during battle. After the Battle of New Orleans, Jordan earned the nickname "The Drummer Boy of Chalmette", and in his later years was referred to as "Old Jordan". Jordan B. Noble died on June 20, 1890. A local newspaper, The Daily Picayune featured "Old Jordan" in an article on June 21, 1890, the day after his death.