Nellie Graves facts for kids

Nellie Graves was a brave woman who secretly served as a soldier in the Union Army during the American Civil War. She fought alongside her close friend, Fanny Wilson. Both women took part in important battles like Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville.

Their secret was discovered when they became ill and were being treated in a hospital. After their gender was found out, both were sent home from the army. They went their separate ways for the rest of the war. Fanny Wilson decided to join the army again, still in disguise. It's not known for sure if Nellie Graves did the same, but if she did, her secret was never discovered again.

Before the War

In 1860, Nellie Graves traveled with her friend, Fanny Wilson, to Lafayette, Indiana. They were visiting some of Fanny's relatives. While there, both women met two young men and became very close friends with them. They kept in touch by sending letters for a year after returning to New York.

In 1861, the Civil War began. Graves and Wilson learned that their friends planned to join the Union Army. They would be part of the 24th New Jersey Infantry. Wanting to stay close to them, Nellie and Fanny made a secret plan. They decided to join the same army group but in different companies. This way, they hoped their secret would not be found out.

Serving in the Civil War

Nellie Graves and Fanny Wilson were happy with army life and training, especially since they were near their friends. Their first job was to help defend Washington D.C., the capital city.

Their army group was then called to fight in the Battle of Fredericksburg. This battle took place from December 11 to 13, 1862. Fighting in this battle made the women feel even more dedicated. They wanted to do their best to help the Union win the war.

From May 1 to 4, 1863, their group fought in the Battle of Chancellorsville. During this battle, Fanny Wilson's close friend was badly hurt and sadly passed away while she was caring for him.

Soon after, both Nellie and Fanny became very sick with an unknown illness. They were sent to a military hospital in Cairo, Illinois, to get better. It was at this hospital that their secret was discovered. They were both discharged, meaning they had to leave the army.

The two friends then went their separate ways. Fanny Wilson chose to join the army again, still in disguise. However, it is not known if Nellie Graves also reenlisted.

See also

In Spanish: Nellie Graves para niños