Molly Pitcher

Molly Pitcher

  • Molly Pitcher is a legendary figure of the American Revolutionary War.
  • Historians believe "Molly Pitcher" is a composite image inspired by the actions of a number of real women, so she’s often times considered folklore rather than history.
  • The name Molly Pitcher came to be because troops would shout, "Molly! Pitcher!" whenever they needed water to soak the sponge that they would use to clean sparks and gunpowder out of the barrel each time they shot their gun.
  • Molly Pitcher is thought to be Mary Ludwig Hays McCauley, who was born in 1744 in Trenton, New Jersey.
  • Mary Ludwig Hays worked as a camp follower, caring for the sick and wounded soldiers and followed orders from Martha Washington.
  • Mary Ludwig Hays gained her reputation during the Battle of Monmouth, when her husband collapsed and she took over his responsibility to load the cannon.
  • Her bravery and dedication earned her the respect and admiration of her fellow soldiers, and she became a symbol of the strength and determination of women in the face of adversity.
  • The legacy of Molly Pitcher has continued to inspire generations of women and men to fight for their country and to honor the sacrifices of those who have served.