Join us for local resident Steve Connolly 's presentation about Deborah Samson (or Sampson), who disguised herself as a man and served for more than a year in the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. After her discharge, Deborah married Benjamin Gannett of Sharon, and lived here until her death. She was proclaimed the Massachusetts State Heroine in 1983.  Her statue, created by sculptor Lu Stubbs, stands in front of the Sharon Public Library.

This presentation covers Deborah's life primarily before and after the American Revolution. Deborah's military service set many precedents for women in the military, allowing future generations of women - and men - certain rights which today we take for granted. We will also review Deborah's lineage as a Mayflower Descendant, to further our understanding of the understand the genetic make up that possibly influenced her strengths and self- driven nature.

This program is funded by the Friends of the Sharon Public Library.