Mary Hays was a patriot whose tale is part fact and part legend. To some, she represents the heroine of the Battle of Monmouth, New Jersey, in June 1778.
To others, her actions that day cement her as a symbol of American patriotism.
While it is a fact that Mary Hays was present at the Battle of Monmouth where she joined her husband William Hays (an artilleryman in the 7th Pennsylvania Regiment), there were many women who helped their husbands and sons at camp.
Mary was one of those who carried water to soldiers during battle, which is likely where she received the nickname “Molly Pitcher.”
The legendary (or unconfirmed) part of her deep history with the Battle of Monmouth is rooted in her nickname. In the heat of battle, her husband was manning a cannon when he fell wounded.
Mary at once picked up the ramrod and continued to fire the cannon for the remainder of the fight.
Her descendants were responsible for memorializing her honor at her gravesite in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, where her story and grave are one of largest in the cemetery.
Regardless of the true events at Monmouth, Mary was dedicated to the cause and helping in any way she could. She did not sit by when British tyranny was at hand. She did her part and for that she is a true patriot.
Will you do your part to stand up to government overreach? Do you feel like our federal government is out of control? Sign the petition calling for an Article V Convention of States, and pledge to ask three of your friends to sign as well.
