On 31 January 1864, John Hadley enlisted in the United States Colored Troops in Washington, North Carolina. Born in what is now Wilson County about 1844, Hadley likely was enslaved by Thomas J. Hadley III (who held dozens in bondage) or IV.

Hadley was mustered into service at Norfolk, Virginia, by “Capt. Gould,” the officer who was responsible for processing and swearing in hundreds of newly freed individuals and volunteers enlisting in the United States Colored Troops. He was 18 years old. The same day, Gilbert Hadley, who may have been John’s brother, mustered into the same company.

Hadley did not return to Wilson County after he mustered out of service.

On 21 February 1867, John Hadley applied for a license to marry Flora Williams in New Hanover County, North Carolina. The same day, he was listed as a witness in support of James Harris’ application for arrears of pay and bounty for his brother Richard Taylor. Taylor had died in Wilmington in September 1865 while in military service. Hadley and Dock King attested to their close acquaintance with Taylor during his service in Company E, United States Colored Troops.

I have found no further record of him.