From NKAA, Notable Kentucky African Americans Database (PIONEERS & PATRIOTS: Anderson County Military Servicemen, Revolutionary War - WWI)
Bond, Joseph
(born: c. 1829) Bond was born a slave in Anderson County about 1829. He remained a slave into adulthood; President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation only freed slaves in states that were openly hostile toward the Union. Since Kentucky refrained from secession, the 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.One of those who chose to become a soldier was Joseph Bond, who made his way to Lebanon, KY to enlist. On September 1, 1864, he was enrolled as a sergeant in Company L of the 13th Regiment, U.S. Colored Heavy Artillery.
At the time of his enlistment, he testified he was 35 years old and born in Anderson County about 1829. He was recorded as 5'8" with a copper complexion, brown eyes, and dark hair.
The 13th Artillery saw no reported action during the war, serving primarily as garrison troops at Camp Nelson, Smithland, Lexington, and other points in Kentucky. Bond was discharged November 18, 1865.