Abigail Bailey, born on February 2, 1746, in the United States, was a remarkable 18th-century woman who stood up against domestic violence and incest. Her courage and resilience in documenting her family's struggles have left a lasting impact on American society.
Abigail was the daughter of Deacon James Abbott, and she grew up in a modest household with strong religious values. In 1767, she married Major Asa Bailey, and together they purchased a farm in Landaff, New Hampshire. Little did she know that her marriage would be marred by abuse and betrayal.
Abigail's most significant contribution to history is her memoir, which she titled "Memoirs of Mrs. Abigail Bailey." In this poignant account, she bravely exposed the abuse she endured at the hands of her husband, including the heartbreaking revelation of his abuse towards one of their daughters.
Initially, Abigail never intended for her memoir to be published. However, after her death, her writings were made public, becoming the first autobiographical narrative of family violence to be published in the United States. Her words shed light on the dark reality faced by many women during that era.
Despite the hardships she faced, Abigail's faith in God remained unwavering. Her memoir is a testament to her strength and belief in a higher power. After enduring 25 years of marriage, she was granted a divorce in 1792, signaling a new chapter in her life.
In 1804, Abigail relocated to Bath, New Hampshire, where she found solace living with her son Asa's family. Her memoirs, initially written for her church community, recounted not only her personal suffering but also instances of her husband's infidelity.
Abigail Bailey's story continues to inspire women around the world to speak out against abuse and injustice. By sharing her truth, she paved the way for future generations to confront difficult realities and seek justice for themselves and their loved ones.
She had 17 children with Major Asa Bailey, including Samuel, Abigail, Caleb, Anna, Chloe, Amos, Olive, Phinehas, Judith, and Patience. Despite the challenges she faced, Abigail's legacy lives on through her descendants and the countless individuals who have been moved by her courage.
Abigail Bailey's name is forever etched in history as a woman who defied the norms of her time and stood up against injustice. Her memoirs serve as a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.