Sarah Bradlee Fulton facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Sarah Bradlee Fulton |
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| Born | December 24, 1740 Dorchester, Boston, British America |
| Died | November 9, 1835 (aged 94) Medford, Massachusetts, U.S. |
| Spouse | John Fulton |
Sarah Bradlee Fulton was a brave and active woman during the American Revolutionary War. Born on December 24, 1740, in Dorchester, Massachusetts, she played many important roles in helping the American side. She passed away on November 9, 1835, in Medford, Massachusetts. Today, a special stone honors her memory at the Salem Street Burying Ground in Medford.
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Sarah Bradlee Fulton: A Revolutionary War Hero
Sarah Bradlee was born in Boston, Massachusetts. In 1762, she married John Fulton and they moved to Medford. Sarah was a dedicated member of the Daughters of Liberty, a group of women who supported American independence. She is even known as the "Mother of the Boston Tea Party" for her clever actions.
Early Life and the Boston Tea Party
Sarah's brother, Nathaniel Bradlee, was a carpenter in Boston. His home was a popular meeting spot for patriots, who were people who strongly believed in American freedom. They often gathered for codfish suppers on Saturday nights. It was in Nathaniel's workshop that a group of patriots planned a famous event.
The "Mohawks" and a Clever Disguise
On the night of the Boston Tea Party, these patriots dressed up as "Mohawks" to protest British taxes. Sarah Fulton and her sister-in-law, Mrs. Bradlee, helped them. They skillfully disguised the men and later helped them change back into their regular clothes. A British spy looked into the window, saw the women busy, and didn't suspect a thing. This clever trick helped the patriots succeed without being caught.
A Nurse on the Battlefield
Sarah Fulton's bravery wasn't limited to secret operations. In June 1775, after the Battle of Bunker Hill, many wounded soldiers needed help. A large area near Wade's Tavern in Medford became a field hospital. There weren't many doctors, so women stepped up to be nurses.
Sarah became a leader among these nurses. She cared for many soldiers. One time, she bravely removed a bullet from a soldier's cheek. Years later, that same soldier came to thank her for saving him. Her steady hands and calm spirit made a big difference.
Delivering Secret Messages
In March 1776, an important task arose. Major John Brooks needed someone to deliver secret messages from George Washington behind enemy lines. Sarah's husband, John Fulton, was asked because he knew Boston well. However, when he couldn't go, Sarah bravely volunteered.
She took the important message from John Brooks, who was then a major, to General Washington at the Charlestown war front. Sarah managed to cross through areas controlled by the enemy and safely returned home. This was a very dangerous mission, showing her courage and dedication.
Providing Supplies for Soldiers
Later, during the Siege of Boston, Sarah and her husband continued to support the American troops. They used their own ship to bring essential supplies like wood and fuel to the soldiers stationed in Medford. This helped keep the troops warm and ready to fight for independence.
Remembering Sarah Fulton
Sarah Bradlee Fulton's contributions to the American Revolution were significant. Her courage, cleverness, and dedication helped the American cause in many ways. In 1919, a play called Sarah Bradlee Fulton, Patriot: A Colonial Drama in Three Acts was written about her by Grace Jewett Austin, celebrating her heroic life.
See also
- Intelligence operations in the American Revolutionary War
