Margaret Corbin was a remarkable woman who made history as the first woman to receive a pension from Congress for her military service during the American Revolutionary War. Her bravery, resilience, and dedication to her country have earned her a lasting place in the annals of American history.
In 1772, Margaret married a farmer named John Corbin. When the American Revolutionary War broke out, John enlisted in the Continental Army, and Margaret accompanied him as a camp follower. She took on the role of caring for the soldiers, cooking meals, and tending to the wounded.
On November 16, 1776, Margaret's life would change forever. During the Battle of Fort Washington in New York City, John was manning a cannon when he was killed in action. Without hesitation, Margaret stepped in to take his place and continued firing the cannon until she was seriously wounded herself. Despite her injuries, she never wavered in her commitment to the cause of American independence.
Margaret's bravery and service to the fledgling United States did not go unnoticed. In 1779, she became the first woman to receive a military pension from the United States government for her wartime service. Her heroism was also commemorated with a tablet at Fort Tryon Park in New York City in 1909, a lasting tribute to her courage and sacrifice.
Decades after her death, Margaret's legacy was further solidified when her story was included in the papers of Henry Knox in 1926. Her contributions to the American Revolutionary War serve as a poignant reminder of the vital role that women played in the fight for independence.
Despite facing adversity and tragedy at a young age, Margaret Corbin rose above her circumstances to become a symbol of courage and patriotism. Her indomitable spirit and selfless dedication to her country continue to inspire generations of Americans to this day.