Elizabeth Burgin facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Elizabeth Burgin
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|---|---|
| Born | before 1760 |
| Died | after 1787 |
| Known for | Helping more than 200 prisoners of war escape British prison ships |
Elizabeth Burgin (born before 1760 – died after 1790) was a brave American patriot during the American Revolutionary War. She is famous for helping over 200 prisoners of war escape from British prison ships.
Contents
Early Life and Patriot Work
We don't know much about Elizabeth Burgin's early life. We do know she was a mother with three children. She may have been a widow whose husband died in the war.
Elizabeth often brought food to American prisoners. These prisoners were held on British prison ships in New York. These ships were very crowded and had harsh conditions.
Helping Prisoners Escape
In 1779, a man named George Higday contacted Elizabeth. He was part of the Culper Spy Ring, a secret group of spies. Higday asked Elizabeth to help prisoners escape from the British ships. She agreed to help.
A Dangerous Discovery
Later that year, the British found a secret letter. This letter was from George Washington to Benjamin Tallmadge. It mentioned Higday's spy activities.
On July 13, 1779, British soldiers raided Higday's home. They arrested him. To help her husband, Higday's wife shared information about Elizabeth's secret work.
Elizabeth Becomes a Target
Because of this, the British tried to find Elizabeth. They even offered a reward of £200 to anyone who could help them capture her. This was a lot of money back then!
Elizabeth had to hide for two weeks. Then, she moved to Long Island to stay safe. After hiding there for five more weeks, she traveled to Connecticut. Finally, she reached Philadelphia, where she was safe.
A New Start in Philadelphia
In October 1779, Elizabeth received a special pass. This pass allowed her to bring her children from New York to Philadelphia. However, she could not take her clothes or furniture. She arrived in Philadelphia with almost nothing.
In November 1779, Elizabeth asked George Washington for help. On December 25, 1779, Washington approved her request. She began receiving food and supplies. Starting in 1781, Elizabeth also received money each year. She continued to receive these funds until at least 1787.
