Hannah Archer Till facts for kids

Hannah Archer Till was an amazing cook and servant who was enslaved by others. She worked for George Washington, a very important leader. Hannah was even at Valley Forge, a famous place where soldiers stayed during the American Revolution. Later, she also worked for the Marquis de Lafayette, a French hero who helped America.

Hannah Till has been honored as a Patriot by the Daughters of the American Revolution, a group that celebrates people who helped America gain its freedom.

Early Life and Family

Hannah Archer was born in Kent County, Delaware in 1721. Her father was an Oneida Indian, and he gave her the special name "Long Point." Her mother was African American, but we don't know much more about her.

Marriage and Enslavement

Before the American Revolutionary War began, Hannah married a man named Isaac Till.

Hannah was enslaved by Reverend John Mason in New York. Isaac was enslaved by Captain John Johnson in Bergen County, New Jersey. Being enslaved meant they were forced to work without pay and were not free to make their own choices.

Working During the American Revolution

Around 1777, Hannah was leased, or temporarily hired, to George Washington to be his cook. Isaac was also leased by his enslaver to work as a military cook. This meant Hannah and Isaac were able to reunite at Valley Forge. By this time, they had three children together.

While at Valley Forge, the family lived and worked in the Isaac Potts house. This house was Washington's headquarters, a very important place. Hannah gave birth to their fourth child there in January 1778.

On October 30, 1778, Hannah and Isaac were able to buy their freedom from the people who enslaved them. This was a huge step! After becoming free, Hannah continued to work for Washington, but this time she was paid for her cooking. She also worked for the Marquis de Lafayette for six months.

Life After the Revolution

After gaining their freedom, the Till family moved to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. They became members of the First African Presbyterian Church there. Hannah kept working as a cook.

Hannah and Isaac Till eventually had seven children together.

Years later, the Marquis de Lafayette visited Hannah in Philadelphia. He called her 'Aunt Hannah,' showing how much he respected her. When he learned she was having trouble paying her mortgage, he helped her by paying it off.

Later Years and Legacy

Hannah Till lived a long life, passing away in 1826 at the age of 104. She was first buried in a church graveyard in Philadelphia. Over time, her remains were moved two more times as graveyards were sold. Today, she rests at Eden Cemetery in Collingdale, Pennsylvania.

On October 3, 2015, the Daughters of the American Revolution placed a special marker near her gravesite. This marker recognizes her important contributions during the American Revolution. There is even a chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution named in her honor!