Waterbury evening Democrat., 1908-06-17
Miss Claxton's D. A. R. Essay.

The gold medal offered by Meli cent Porter chapter of the D. A. R to the high school pupil that would write the best essay on revolu tionary subject was won this year b, Miss Grace Claxton. There were some excellent papers written ana many of them were given favorable mention. The essay follows:
 When one thinks of the great work accomplished by the revolution, the tribute is often given to the brave men who fought so brilliantly in de- fense of freedom. In reality, much of the work could not have been so suc- cessfully accomplished had 1t no. been for the fortitude, self-sacrifice and heroism displayed by their wives and daughters.
 Before the war broke out, the mothers advised their sons, and pray ed that they might be successful when the time came for them to as- sert their rights for indeperdenco. They filled them with animation and courage and cheered those who haz- arded their all In their country's cause. Without complaint or unwil- lingness, they shared their husband s dangers and perils. and sent their loved ones to battle from which many never returned The mems worK in the war was of tho mind and hani but the women's work was of the heart.
 "The bravery of the women of both Wyoming and Kentucky was especial ly worthy of praise. During the rev- olution, the Indians often attacked the small towns, and the women we're forced to flee without any warning
 other than that of the terrified cries of those being pursued. After they had eyaded the attacking Indians. they crept along stealthily, repress- ing groans and cries of pain for fear of arousing the Indians in ambush. In times when they were undisturb- ed by Indians. the work of their hus- bands fell upon them. They titled the ground. planted the crops, made hay, gathered in and husked the corn, and in many instances helped in mak- ing ammunition for the soldiers. In Kentucky, many brilliant exploits we're carried out by the courage and heroism of the women.
 All over the country, women gave their own property. such as their pewter and silyerware, and went from house to house soliciting contribu- tions for the army. The ladies of Philadelphia are often spoken of for their unfalterlng energy in the work for those at the front. Colors were embroidered and given. with the charge never to desert them, to the men departing for war. It was the ladies of Philadelphia who, by their liberal zeal. supplied arms and am intuition for many parts Of the army. Many organizations of patriotic wom- en were formed in which they re- nouneed the use of tea and imported Injuries. engaging to card and spin and weave their own clothing. In some countries the young ladies re- fused to accept any attention how ever small. from any young man who had not obeyed his country's call for troops. Amusements were frovned upon while their country was in such great danger. The custom of wearing black in mourning the dead was an English custom. 90 the people dIscon- tinued its use until the var was over. Lamb and mutton were no longer used for food. but the sheep were kept until 1t came time for shearinx that they might weave the wool into clothing for their families at hone and for the soldiers In the army. The hospitals were visited daily by sym pathetic uomsH. the dungeons Of the provost. and the crowded prison ships were sought with provisions from their stores for the unfortanats cap- tirss, whoss cnly waT of flowing their spprscistlon vss by bestgwinE