Mary Ralphson facts for kids

Mary Ralphson, born Mary Cameron, was a very brave British soldier. She was known as "Trooper Mary." She was a dragoon, which means she was a soldier who rode horses and fought in battles. She passed away on June 27, 1808.

Who Was Mary Ralphson?

Mary Ralphson was a unique figure in history. She became famous for fighting in battles alongside men. This was very unusual for women in the 1700s. Her story shows how some women found ways to be part of big historical events.

Early Life and Joining the Army

Mary was born in a place called Inverlochy in Scotland. She married a man named Ralph Ralphson. He was a soldier in a group called the 3rd Dragoons of the Kings Own Dragoons.

In 1741, her husband went to Europe to fight in a big conflict. This war was known as the War of the Austrian Succession. Mary went with him, following the army.

Fighting in Battles

The story of how Mary became a soldier is quite amazing. During a battle, a dragoon soldier next to her was hurt. Mary quickly put on his uniform and took his horse. She then rode right back into the middle of the fight!

After that first battle, she continued to serve as a soldier. She fought in several important battles:

• The Battle of Dettingen in Germany in 1743.
• The Battle of Fontenoy in the Austrian Netherlands in 1745.
• Battles in Scotland, including Clifton, Falkirk, and the famous Battle of Culloden in 1746.
• The Battle of Lauffeld (also called Lawfeld or Val) in the Netherlands in 1747.

Life After the Army

After the Battle of Lauffeld, Mary Ralphson's husband died. She then decided to leave the army. She moved to a city called Liverpool in England. There, she lived with help from charity.

Mary Ralphson's story is remembered as an example of courage. She was a woman who defied expectations to serve her country.