Kodjo (slave)
Kodjo also Cojo and Codjo was a Surinamese slave. On 26 January 1833, he was burnt alive for starting the 1832 fire in Paramaribo which caused the destruction of 46 houses. Kodjo used to be known as a criminal. Nowadays, he is remembered as a resistance fighter.
Biography
Kodjo was born on a Monday, and therefore named Kodjo. He was a slave of D.M. Sanches, but seconded to Mrs. Smith who ran an inn in Paramaribo. Smith called him Andries, and was known for her cruelty. In July 1832, Kodjo had sold bread in the street. Upon his return, Smith counted the money, and discovered that 2½ cents were missing.Kodjo ran away, and found refuge in Picornobosch in Kwatta near Paramaribo. In the forest, he banded together with Mentor, Present, and other slaves who had also escaped. The group occasionally went to the city to steal and rob supplies.
Fire
On the night of 3 on 4 September 1832, Kodjo and his group, went to the house of Mozes Nunes Monsanto whom Kodjo knew well. After sneaking in, they proceeded to steal food from the kitchen. Kodjo went up to the bedroom where he observed a child and female slave asleep. He then set fire to the laundry and curtains, and proceeded to the shop where he stole some goods. The fire quickly spread out of control, and caused the destruction of 46 houses.Present and Mentor were first arrested in connection with the arson. Kodjo and the others were arrested on 3 October. They were detained in Fort Zeelandia. Kodjo attempted to escape on 11 December 1832, but was apprehended by citizens and returned to the fort.