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

Samuel Coke was born a slave in Anderson County about 1824. He remained a slave into adulthood; President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation only freed slaves in states openly hostile toward the Union. Late in the war, however, the federal government called for the enlistment of colored regiments, and all who answered the call were granted immediate freedom.

Samuel Coke therefore went to Lexington to enlist, and on October 7, 1864 was enrolled as a private in Commpany K of the 5th U.S. Colored Cavalry Regiment. At this time he testified he was born in Anderson County about 1824.

He participated in Burbridge's Campaign into southwest Virginia and was active at the 1st Battle of Saltville on October 2, 1864. In December, an attempt was made to destroy the salt works, and the 5th were part of Stoneman's Raid. On December 17-18, 1864, the Battle of Marion was fought, and the Confederate lead mines were captured; and on the 20-21 the Federals captured and destroyed the salt works after the 2nd Battle of Saltville.

Samuel Coke died while in service on March 8, 1865, but the cause of death was not listed.