Messenger

 

Talking to someone miles away is no problem with the invention of the telephone. However, this form of communication was not available to the colonist during the Revolutionary War. People had to travel by foot or by horse to send messages. This was a difficult and dangerous task for anyone to undertake, for the British were a threat to all travelers. Only a few brave people took on this challenge. Of this number, even fewer cases have been document. For the most part, messengers simply traveled long distances, shared their news, and returned home. In order to protect their families, they often preferred to remain anonymous. 

Lydia Darragh

While housing British officers, Lydia Darragh overheard plans to attack the Continental forces at Whitemarsh, Pennsylvania. She convinced General Howe of the Redcoats to grant her passage through British lines to get to the flourmill. It was a perfect plan, for she was able to warn General Washington’s troops, pick up her flour, and return home undetected.

Sibyl Ludington

Sibyl Ludington was only a young girl when she rode on horseback through the night, warning the local militia of British plans to burn Danbury, Connecticut. She endured the hardships of a long and rough ride to save her town.

Anna Strong

Anna Strong was the vital link in the transfer of messages in the New York area. When new information arrived, Anna would secretly let the Patriots know where to pick up the message. After receiving notification by a lantern signal, Anna would hang a black petticoat on her clothesline, followed by a particular number of handkerchiefs. Only a few important people knew this secret code, and the British did not suspect any suspicious activity.

 

Others

There were other women who helped the Patriots relay messages.

• Kate Moore Barry
• Grace and Rachel Martin
• Jane Thomas
• Emily Geiger
• Sally Townsend
• Betty Zane

 

 

  Sybil's Script  

Imagine that you are Sybil Ludington, the young girl who rode all night warning the local militia of an upcoming attack. Create some diaologue in the form of a script that would express what Sybil said to the minutemen as she knocked on their doors. Here are some questions that may help you begin.

What was Sybil's tone of voice?

What type of information did she give the men?

What did the men say in return?

How did their wives and children react to the news?

 

 

Anonymous – A person who’s name it not known and cannot be identified.

Redcoats – The British soldiers during the American Revolution.

Militia – A group of able-bodied male citizens called to fight only in emergencies.

Petticoat – A slip that is worn by women under long skirts. It is often full and trimmed with lace.

Suspicious – Suspect wrong doing; Distrustful.