The first mention of black drummers in history is in 1759, when 8 or 10 boys taken at the surrender of Guadeloupe were presented by Admiral Boscawen to his brother who was commanding the 29th at that time.
However, it appears that even if these drummers arrived as slaves, they enjoyed a respectable standing within the regiment and retired as free men.
Further reading can be found at:
http://www.worcestershireregiment.com/black_drummers.php
Picture courtesy of Worcester City Museum
