Revolutionary War Warrior: Margaret Corbin Unveiled
In the heart of the American Revolutionary War, a remarkable woman named Margaret Cochran Corbin made history by becoming one of the first women to fight in battle alongside male soldiers. Born in Franklin County, Pennsylvania, in 1751, Margaret's life was marked by adversity and courage.
When Margaret was just five years old, her father passed away, leaving her orphaned. A few years later, her mother was captured in an Indian raid. Margaret found refuge with an uncle but was left to fend for herself when he moved west.
Margaret's life took a dramatic turn during the Battle of Fort Washington in 1776. Her husband, John Corbin, joined the First Company of Pennsylvania Artillery and was manning a cannon when he was killed. In an act of bravery, Margaret took over her husband's position and continued to fire the cannon with remarkable courage and determination, despite being seriously wounded.
Margaret's acts of bravery and self-sacrifice paved the way for subsequent generations of women to contribute to the military. Her story highlights the often-overlooked contributions of women in the Revolutionary War.
After the battle, Margaret faced physical limitations due to her injuries, but she remained dedicated to the cause of American independence. Her unwavering courage and resilience in confronting adversity remain a source of inspiration.
In 1779, Margaret received a pension in acknowledgment of her substantial contributions to the war effort. This made her the first woman to receive a military pension for her actions during the Revolutionary War. In 1926, she was officially recognized for her military service by the U.S. government, marking a historic milestone.
Margaret's impact extends beyond her personal achievements. Her direct involvement in battle challenged contemporary gender roles and established her as a symbol of female courage and patriotism in American history. The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) honoured her by exhuming her grave and giving her a military funeral at West Point, emphasizing her historic military service.
The American Revolutionary War, also known as the American War of Independence, was a pivotal chapter in history. Margaret's narrative serves as a compelling testament to the substantial impact women had during this period. Her story sheds light on the often-overlooked contributions of women in the Revolutionary War, representing early examples of women actively engaging in combat roles and receiving military recognition for their sacrifices.
[1] "Margaret Corbin: The First Woman to Fight in the American Revolution." National Park Service. Accessed March 15, 2023. https://www.nps.gov/sama/learn/historyculture/margaret-corbin.htm
[2] "Margaret Corbin." National Women's History Museum. Accessed March 15, 2023. https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/margaret-corbin
[3] "Margaret Corbin." Biography. Accessed March 15, 2023. https://www.biography.com/military-figure/margaret-corbin
Despite her humble beginnings, marked by the loss of her parents and financial struggle, Margaret Corbin demonstrated exceptional resilience, defining her lifestyle with courage and determination. Her home-and-garden, if one could personify her battles and personal perseverance, would be the battlefield of Fort Washington, where she fought bravely amidst adversity, leaving an indelible mark on American history.
