Existing comment:
Margaret Todd Whetten 1739–1809
Born New York City?
Margaret Whetten was a widow living in New York City when the British occupied it during the Revolution. Gifted with a "quickness of repartee and a rather pungent humor," Whetten won the confidence of the city's British and Hessian captors and used her influence to aid the American cause. She and her daughters provided food and clothing to American prisoners with such determination that the British jailors were reluctant to interfere with their acts of mercy. In addition, the Whetten home, dubbed "Rebel Headquarters," served as a refuge for American spies. After the war, George Washington sent a letter of gratitude to Whetten for her service.
Unidentified artist
Pigmented wax and oil paint on glass, c. 1800 |