Mary McCoy facts for kids
Mary McCoy (born in the 1820s – died 7 October 1899) was a brave Irish nurse. She is remembered for her important work during the American Civil War.
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Early Life and Moving to America
Mary McCoy was born in County Limerick, Ireland, sometime in the 1820s. When she was younger, she moved to New York City with some of her family members.
A Nurse in the Civil War
When the American Civil War started in 1861, Mary's husband, James McCoy, and her three brothers all joined the army. They became part of the 71st New York Infantry. Mary decided to join them. She was officially made an army nurse by Edwin M. Stanton, who was the Secretary of War at the time.
Amazing Work on the Battlefield
Everyone who saw Mary McCoy work said she was an excellent nurse. Her care for wounded soldiers was especially amazing during the Battle of Fair Oaks. She worked right on the front lines, helping injured soldiers while fighting was still happening. General George B. McClellan, a very important army leader, even praised her for her courage.
Meeting President Lincoln
Soon after the Battle of Fair Oaks, President Lincoln visited the army camp at Harrison's Landing. He asked Nurse McCoy for a drink. Mary wanted to give him a proper glass, not just a simple tin cup. But President Lincoln told her, "If a tin dipper is good enough for the soldiers, it is good enough for me." This shows how much he respected the soldiers and their simple lives.
After the War
Both Mary McCoy and her husband survived the war. After her husband passed away, Mary continued her nursing career. She joined the staff at St. Mary's Hospital in Brooklyn. She worked there until she died on 7 October 1899. News articles were written about her death, remembering her important life and service. She was survived by her niece.
