From NKAA, Notable Kentucky African Americans Database (PIONEERS & PATRIOTS: Anderson County Military Servicemen, Revolutionary War - WWI)
Anderson, John
(born: c. 1844) Born a slave in Anderson County about 1844, John remained a slave throughout his life. President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation freed only slaves in states openly hostile toward the Union. Since Kentucky refrained from secession, slaves within its borders remained in bondage.Late in the war, however, the government called for the enlistment of Colored regiments, and all who answered the call were granted immediate freedom. In great numbers, slaves threw down the tools of forced labor and walked away from the fields to a nearby enlistment point. John Anderson was among them, making his way to Camp Nelson to enlist; he was enrolled as a private in Company I of the 12th U.S. Colored Heavy Artillery Regiment. (See also History, 12th U.S. Colored Heavy Artillery.)
At the time of his enlistment, he testified he was 20 years old, born in Anderson County about 1844. His last residence was the James Cole farm. John was recorded as 5'8" with black hair and eyes and a dark complexion.
The 12th Artillery saw no reported action, mainly serving garrison duty at various locations throughout Kentucky until it was discharged from service on April 24, 1866.