Betsy Hager facts for kids

Elizabeth Hager (born around 1750 or 1755 – died July 12, 1843), often called Betsy or Betsey, was an amazing American woman. She was a farmer and a blacksmith, meaning she worked with metal. Betsy played an important part in the early days of the American Revolution. She helped get weapons ready for the American forces.

A Blacksmith for Freedom

Betsy Hager worked for a blacksmith and farmer named Samuel Leverett in Massachusetts. This was during a very important time in American history. The American Revolution was just beginning.

Helping the Revolution

After a big battle called the Battle of Concord, Betsy saw something important. The British soldiers had left behind some cannons. These cannons were brought to Leverett's workshop, called a smithy.

Betsy helped fix these cannons. After they were repaired, the American soldiers used them in the fight for independence.

More Than Just Cannons

Betsy Hager did even more at the smithy. She fixed firearms, like muskets, that soldiers used. She also helped prepare ammunition, which is the bullets and gunpowder needed for the weapons.

Besides her work with metal, Betsy also cared for sick and wounded people. She was known for being very good at using plants and natural remedies to help them heal.

Honoring Her Legacy

Today, there is a special group that remembers Betsy Hager. It's called the Betsey Hager Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution. This group is located in Grand Island, Nebraska. They help keep the memory of American Revolution heroes alive.

Her Life and Family

Betsy Hager married John Pratt on July 22, 1787. Their wedding took place in Newton, Massachusetts. Both Betsy and John were originally from Framingham, Massachusetts.

In the early 1800s, Betsy and John moved to Pennsylvania. Betsy Hager passed away on July 12, 1843. She is buried in the Vroman Hill Cemetery in West Burlington, Bradford County, Pennsylvania.