Margaret Thomas (domestic worker) facts for kids

Margaret Thomas also known as Margaret Thomas Lee was a free Black woman who worked for George Washington. She was a domestic worker, meaning she helped with household tasks like cleaning and laundry.

Margaret Thomas's Role with George Washington

Margaret Thomas first joined George Washington in February 1776. This was at his headquarters in Cambridge, Massachusetts. She traveled with Washington during the American Revolutionary War. She was present at military camps, helping with important tasks.

Her Work During the Revolutionary War

During the war, Margaret Thomas was a laundress. She also mended clothes and linens for Washington's household. This was a vital job, helping to keep the soldiers and their leaders ready for battle. She worked for Washington at Valley Forge from 1777 to 1778. This was a very difficult time for the American army.

Margaret Thomas's Marriage and Life

While working with General Washington, Margaret Thomas met William Lee. William Lee was George Washington's personal valet, meaning he was Washington's main personal assistant. William Lee was an enslaved person.

Marriage in Philadelphia

Margaret and William married in Philadelphia. After the Revolutionary War ended, William Lee returned to Mount Vernon with George Washington. Margaret Thomas stayed in Philadelphia. She lived there with Hannah and Isaac Till, who were also former cooks for Washington.

Challenges for Their Marriage

At that time, the state of Virginia did not recognize marriages between enslaved people. This meant that William Lee's marriage to Margaret Thomas was not legally accepted in Virginia. William Lee asked George Washington if Margaret could join him at Mount Vernon. Washington agreed to this request. However, it is not known for sure if Margaret Thomas ever made it to Mount Vernon to live with William Lee.