Mary Lindley Murray facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Mary Lindley Murray
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Murray entertaining General Howe
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Mary Lindley
1720 Pennsylvania, United States
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| Died | December 25, 1782 (O.S.) January 5, 1783 (N.S.) |
| Spouse(s) | Robert Murray |
| Children | Lindley Murray |
Mary Lindley Murray was a brave Quaker woman during the American Revolution. In 1776, she famously delayed British General William Howe. This clever act helped American soldiers escape after a battle at Kips Bay.
Contents
Mary Murray's Life and Legacy
Early Life and Family
Mary Lindley was born in Pennsylvania. Her father, Thomas Lindley, was a Quaker who came from Ireland. Her mother, Hannah Duborow, was also a Quaker from Philadelphia.
In 1744, Mary married Robert Murray. Their first child, Lindley Murray, was born the next year. Lindley was one of their 11 children. He later became a famous author, writing 11 books. He was the best-selling author in the United States for many years.
A Clever Plan to Help the Americans
Mary Lindley Murray is best known for her quick thinking during the American Revolution. In 1776, British forces had just won a battle at Kips Bay in New York. American soldiers, led by Major General Israel Putnam, were trying to escape. They needed to join the main American army.
A large group of British and Hessian soldiers were moving on a road that would have blocked Putnam's escape. Luckily, the British generals decided to stop. They went to the home of Robert Murray, Mary's husband.
Mary Murray invited General Howe and his officers inside. She offered them cake and wine. She kept them busy for two hours or more. While they enjoyed her hospitality, General Putnam and his 3,500 American troops safely got away.
A surgeon named James Thatcher, who was with the American army, wrote about this event. He said that Mary Murray's actions saved a big part of the American army. If she hadn't delayed the British, Putnam's soldiers might have been captured.
Mary Murray's Character
Mary Murray was known for her calm and dignified manner. Her son, Lindley Murray, described her as a kind and loving person. He remembered her as a "faithful and affectionate wife, a tender mother, and a kind mistress." She cared deeply for her family's health and happiness.
The place where Mary Murray delayed the British officers is now a neighborhood in Manhattan. It is called Murray Hill, named after her family.
Mary Murray in Popular Culture
Stories and Shows
Mary Murray's brave story has been told in different ways.
- The musical Dearest Enemy by Rodgers and Hart is based on her tale.
- A play from 1957, called Small War on Murray Hill, also tells her story.
The Mary Murray Ferry
A Staten Island Ferry was named the Mary Murray in her honor. It was launched in 1937 and served until 1975.
