Forgotten Hero: Sybil Ludington — The Teenage Patriot Who Outrode Paul Revere

Forgotten Hero: Sybil Ludington



History remembers Paul Revere, but few know the name of Sybil Ludington — a young woman whose bravery helped shape the course of the American Revolution.

Born in 1761 in what is now Putnam County, New York, Sybil was the daughter of Colonel Henry Ludington, commander of a local militia.

On the stormy night of April 26, 1777, news reached the Ludington home: British troops had landed in Connecticut and were burning the town of Danbury. The militia needed to be called to arms immediately. But time was short, and the danger was immense.

While her father prepared for battle, Sybil volunteered for the task. Mounted on her horse, Star, she rode nearly 40 miles — twice the distance of Paul Revere’s celebrated ride — through rain, mud, and darkness. Along the way, she warned families, knocked on doors, and urged men to take up their muskets.

She faced hazards at every turn: British patrols, Loyalist raiders, wild animals, and the risk of injury from the treacherous roads. Yet she never faltered. By the time she returned home near dawn, hundreds of militia members were mobilized and ready to fight.

Though the British succeeded in burning Danbury, the swift response of the militia — thanks to Sybil’s ride — helped drive them back at the Battle of Ridgefield.

Sybil Ludington lived a long life, but her heroism remained largely overlooked in history books. Today, statues and markers honor her ride, reminding us that courage knows no age or gender. She was, and remains, a true Forgotten Hero.

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