Molly Pitcher

By Crusader1307

A name well known to some (even today), ''Molly Pitcher'' (a term associated with a water bearer) was the (by The Era) an unusual (and often over dramatized) Female Hero of The American Revolution (1776-1783). Her exact ''identity'' is still debated (with some citing that ''She'' did not exist and was ''used'' as American Propaganda). One Mary Hays is often linked to the possible ''real'' Pitcher. But Her tale starts at The American Revolutionary War Battle of Monmouth (New Jersey, 1778).

It was somewhat common for Colonial women to carry water to wounded Patriot Soldiers. Often working in The Rear (in relative safety), they were seldom allowed to perform this task ''on The Line'' (as it was too dangerous). Hay's husband happened to be a serving artilleryman in General George Washington's artillery at The Battle.

Wounded by British fire, Hay's husband fell (within Her sight). ''Molly'' ran to Her husband's Gun. Taking up His position, She began to help return fire against The British advance. This was done over and over until She too, was wounded. Her ''take'' spread rapidly throughout The Colonies. It was further claimed that ''Molly'' was rewarded after The War with a $50 USD Pension for the rest of Her life.

The Story became part of The National Mater – in particular during The American Bicentennial of 1976. Although ''many'' women were put forward as ''Molly Pitcher'' – and regardless if the tale was true or not – it served to inspire many when American Forces were losing ground against The British at that point of The War.