William Munroe (American soldier) facts for kids
William Munroe (born October 28, 1742 – died October 30, 1827) was a brave soldier during the American Revolutionary War. He was an important leader in the local army, called the militia. He served as an orderly sergeant at the famous Battle of Lexington and Concord and later as a lieutenant at the Battle of Saratoga. William Munroe was also a respected leader in his hometown of Lexington.
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Who Was William Munroe?
William Munroe was born in 1742. He lived a long life and passed away in 1827 at 85 years old. He was known for being a good leader and a kind person.
His Family Life
William Munroe first married Anna Smith. They had six children together. After Anna passed away in 1781, he later married Polly Rodgers.
His Businesses and Jobs
Before the Revolutionary War began in April 1775, William Munroe owned two businesses. One was his popular Munroe Tavern, which was a place where people could eat, drink, and stay. He also owned a retail shop, which sold goods. Besides his businesses, he was an orderly sergeant in the Lexington militia. This meant he helped keep the soldiers organized and ready.
William Munroe in the Revolutionary War
William Munroe played a key role in some of the most important battles of the American Revolution.
The Battle of Lexington
On April 19, 1775, William Munroe fought in the Battle of Lexington. He was an orderly sergeant in Captain John Parker's company of militia. This battle was the very first fight of the Revolutionary War.
Later that same day, his home, Munroe Tavern, was taken over by British soldiers. Colonel Percy, a British officer, used the tavern as a place for injured soldiers and as a safe spot for his troops.
Fifty years after the battle, in March 1825, William Munroe gave a sworn statement about what he did on that historic day.
The Battle of Saratoga
William Munroe also served as a lieutenant at the Battle of Saratoga. This was a very important victory for the American forces. It helped convince France to join the war and support the Americans.
Life After the War
After the Revolutionary War, William Munroe continued to be an active and respected member of his community.
Shays' Rebellion
In 1786, William Munroe was a Captain in the militia. He led a group of men towards Springfield during a time of unrest called the Shays Rebellion. This was a protest by farmers who were struggling after the war.
Meeting George Washington
In November 1789, the first President of the United States, George Washington, visited the Munroe family. This shows how respected William Munroe was.
Community Leader
William Munroe was a selectman for nine years. A selectman is an elected official who helps manage the local government of a town. He also represented his town in the state legislature for two years. This means he helped make laws for Massachusetts.
