Martha Bratton facts for kids

Martha Bratton (born around 1749 or 1750, died in 1816) was a brave American patriot during the Revolutionary War. She is remembered for her courage and quick thinking.

Martha's Brave Actions

Martha Bratton was married to Colonel William Bratton. He was fighting for the American forces. One day, he left a large amount of gunpowder at their home in South Carolina. The British soldiers found out about this gunpowder. They quickly moved to take it.

Protecting Supplies

Martha knew there wasn't enough time to move the gunpowder to safety. So, she made a daring decision. She blew up the gunpowder herself! She timed the explosion to happen just as the British troops arrived. This stopped the British from getting the supplies. When the British threatened her, Martha bravely told them: "I am proud I stopped the plans of my country's cruel enemies."

A Secret Message

On another occasion, British soldiers questioned Martha. They wanted to know where her husband was hiding. Martha refused to tell them. She wouldn't give away his location, even when she was threatened. That night, a trusted helper named Watt carried a secret message for her. The message told her husband where the British soldiers were staying. This led to a surprise attack by the American patriots.

Battle at Home

The battle even took place near her home. Martha protected her young son by placing him in the chimney. This kept him safe from stray bullets. After the patriots won, they kept some captured British soldiers at the Bratton home.

Martha's Legacy

Martha Bratton passed away in 1816. Her son later inherited their home. He turned it into a school for girls. This was a special way to remember her.

Honoring a Hero

In 1839, a celebration was held in Brattonsville, South Carolina. This town was named after Martha and her husband. During the event, a special toast was made to Martha Bratton. She was praised as "so faithful a wife, so firm a friend to liberty!" Her bravery continues to inspire people today.