Who was Lydia Darragh and what did she do?
Lydia Barrington Darragh was a Philadelphia Quaker who became a Patriot spy during the American Revolution. Her courageous efforts helped prepare General George Washington for an attack by the British in December of 1777. Born in 1729 in Dublin, Ireland, Lydia Barrington married family friend William Darragh in 1753.
Where did Lydia Barrington and William Darragh live?
Born in 1729 in Dublin, Ireland, Lydia Barrington married family friend William Darragh in 1753. A few years later, the couple moved to America, settling in Philadelphia with its large Quaker community. William Darragh worked as a tutor; Lydia as a midwife.
Where was Lydia Darragh when the British occupied Philadelphia?
When the British occupied Philadelphia on September 26, 1777, Darragh was a housewife living on Second Street. The home of her neighbor John Cadwalader was occupied by General Howe for use as his headquarters during the occupation.
Who was William Darragh’s son in the Continental Army?
Though William and Lydia were both Quakers and pacifists, their eldest son, Charles, joined the Continental Army, serving in the 2 nd Pennsylvania Regiment. When the British occupied Philadelphia in September of 1777, General William Howe moved into a home located across the street from the Darragh’s family residence.
Where was Lydia Barrington Darragh born and raised?
Her courageous efforts helped prepare General George Washington for an attack by the British in December of 1777. Born in 1729 in Dublin, Ireland, Lydia Barrington married family friend William Darragh in 1753. A few years later, the couple moved to America, settling in Philadelphia with its large Quaker community.
How did Lydia Howe help the British Army?
With the aid of a second cousin that was serving in the British army, Lydia was able to convince Howe to permit the couple to remain in their home in exchange for allowing the British to use their parlor as a meeting place.