The Legend of Molly Pitcher

Nickname: Molly Pitcher
Real Name: Mary Ludwig Hays McCauley
Origins: Philadelphia, PAD
Birth: October 3, 1744 This date has been disputed over the years.
Death:  January 22, 1822
Enlistment: Valley Forge and Battle of Monmouth

Molly Pitcher was the nickname for Ms. McCauley.  Her date of birth has been listed as October 3rd, 1744 but has been disputed by historians over the years.  Ms. McCauley was born to a family that resided in Philadelphia.  As she grew she never learned to read or write.

When Ms. McCauley grew into an adult she married William Hays who enlisted with the Continental Army as an artilleryman.  She followed her husband and enlisted.  Ms. McCauley went to Valley Forge during the winter of 1777 and was under the command of Mary Washington.  She and few other women helped wash clothing and blankets for the men.

During the spring of 1778 she helps bring water to the men while they were drilling.  It is believed during this time period Ms. McCauley got her nickname when the soldiers yelled "Molly! Pitcher".  This would indicate the soldiers or troops needed fresh water.

That same year, Ms. McCauley and her husband were sent to the Battle of Monmouth.  She continued to deliver water to the soldiers.  Its believed that its was over 100 degrees when the battle was being fought.  While she was delivering water to the soldiers, the British were delivering heavy artillery to the Continental Army.  During the battle her husband was hit while manning the cannons.  Ms. McCauley bravely took his place after he was carried off the battlefield.  She continued to load and fire the cannon until it was dark when the fighting stopped.

George Washington then warrant her as a non commission officer*.  She from then on called herself Sergeant Molly.

*https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Non-commissioned_officer