Mercy Harbison facts for kids

Mary Jane Harbison (born March 18, 1770 – died December 9, 1837) was a brave American woman who lived shortly after the American Revolutionary War. In May 1792, she was captured by Native Americans. Mary Jane, also known as Massy, managed to escape after six days. She later shared her amazing story in a written account called Capture and Escape of Mercy Harbison, 1792. This story is a famous example of a type of American writing known as a captivity narrative, where people tell about being captured and then escaping.

Early Life of Mary Jane Harbison

Mary Jane White was born on March 18, 1770, in Amwell, New Jersey. Her father, Edward White, was a soldier who fought in the American Revolutionary War. Her mother, Rebecca Pelton, was a descendant of Richard More, who was a passenger on the famous Mayflower ship.

Family and a Dangerous Time

Mary Jane married John Harbison in 1787 in Pennsylvania. John was from Belfast, Ireland. In November 1791, Mary Jane lived with her three young children in western Pennsylvania, near the Allegheny River and the city of Pittsburgh.

At this time, the area was quite dangerous. Her husband, John, was with General Arthur St. Clair during a big battle known as the Battle of the Wabash. Native American tribes won this battle, and after their victory, attacks on American settlements in the frontier areas became more common.

In late May 1792, while her husband was away scouting, the Harbison family home was attacked. Mary Jane and her three children were captured. Tragically, during this difficult time, her two older children did not survive.

Mary Jane's Brave Escape

Mary Jane, still carrying her infant child, managed to escape after several days. She bravely avoided being recaptured for six days, even though she had very little food. Barefoot, she found her way back to Pittsburgh.

Once she was safe, Mary Jane told her incredible story to officials in Pittsburgh. This detailed account of her capture and daring escape became known as her deposition.

Later in life, Mary Jane and John separated. John passed away in 1822 when he was lost at sea. Mary Jane Harbison lived until 1837, leaving behind a legacy of courage and survival.