Famous Women in History: Sybil Ludington (Messenger for Independence)

The harrowing tale of a revolutionary era 16-year girl who rode horseback through the dark of night warning of an impending British attack on the town of Danbury, Connecticut and summoning the 7th Regiment of the Dutchess County Militia to assemble near her family home. Sybil Ludington was the daughter of Colonel Henry Ludington, a revered military officer. The story chronicles various historical accounts of her upbringing and later years. One such is her clever plan in having her seven siblings march back and forth in front of a window in the family's home to dissuade a group of men who had arrived in hopes of claiming a bounty for the capture of her father. It tells of how she was a pioneer, having been one of only a few women to own and run a tavern after the passing of her husband. Contextual side stories offer further perspective on key details, locations, and people referenced in Sybil's story. Archival photographs, drawings, and paintings are chronologically arranged, adding visual context to her compelling story, as well as the inclusion of further reading and website recommendations, maps, glossary, and index. Content developed for young readers, interest level grades 4-6 (reading level, grade 5).