Samuel Fraunces, Holland Lodge 8 of New York City, owned the Fraunces Tavern in New York and served as George Washington's household steward from 1789-94. Born in the West Indies, Brother Fraunces was called "Black Sam," indicating he was an African American. Portraiture, however shows a light-skinned individual and confuses speculation about his heritage. Researchers have suggested he might have been the son of black and white parents but the fact is, his race remains unknown.
