From NKAA, Notable Kentucky African Americans Database (PIONEERS & PATRIOTS: Anderson County Military Servicemen, Revolutionary War - WWI)

Bryant was born a slave in Anderson County about 1836, remaining 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 her 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.

Anthony Bryant chose to become a soldier and made his way to Camp Nelson to enlist, where he was enrolled on September 17, 1864 as a private in Company I of the 12th U.S. Colored Heavy Artillery Regiment.

The 12th Artillery saw no reported action, mainly serving garrison duty at various locations throughout Kentucky until the unit  was discharged from service on April 24, 1866.