Anna Warner Bailey facts for kids

Anna Warner Bailey (born October 11, 1758 – died January 10, 1851) was a brave American hero during the American Revolutionary War. People knew her as "Mother Bailey" because of her courage and kindness. She helped soldiers and became famous for her actions.

Anna's Early Life

Anna Warner was born in a town called Groton, Connecticut. This was on October 11, 1758. She became an orphan at a young age. Her uncle, Edward Mills, took care of her. He raised her in Groton.

A Hero at Fort Griswold

Anna showed great bravery during the Battle of Fort Griswold. This battle happened during the American Revolution. Her uncle, Edward Mills, was fighting there. Anna bravely walked to the battle scene to find him.

She found her uncle badly hurt. He was dying from his wounds. Anna quickly went back home. She got a horse ready for her aunt. Then, she carried her baby cousin back to the fort. This was so her aunt and cousin could see her uncle one last time. Anna also helped other soldiers who were hurt. She took care of them on the battlefield.

A Story of Courage

Anna's actions at Fort Griswold became a famous story. People admired her courage and quick thinking. Her future husband, Captain Elijah Bailey, was also in that battle. He was captured by the British. He spent some time as a prisoner of war.

After the war, Captain Bailey became the postmaster in their hometown. Anna and Elijah lived in Groton.

Helping in the War of 1812

Years later, another war began. This was the War of 1812 against the English. Anna Bailey again helped the soldiers. The English fleet was blocking New London, Connecticut. American soldiers were defending the town.

The soldiers were running low on supplies. They needed wadding for their gun cartridges. Anna heard about this problem. She quickly took off her petticoat. She told the soldiers to use it for wadding. This act of generosity made her even more famous. She became a true celebrity after this war.

Later Life and Legacy

Anna Warner Bailey lived a long life. She died in Groton in 1851. She is buried in the Starr Burying Ground Cemetery in Groton, Connecticut. Today, she is still remembered. A local chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution is named after her. This group honors women who helped during the American Revolution.