Women's History Month

Not only is this month “Read Across America” Month but it is also “Women’s History Month”. All of this month, people are celebrating the tremendous impact that women have made throughout history. Women have been an integral part in all of our lives, communities, and histories. Like many other groups in society, women have a history of tremendous achievements that at some point were ignored, but now are commemorated.

This year’s theme for Women’s History Month is “Our History, Our Strength”. Throughout history, women have persevered and shown their ability to face and overcome adversity. Thus, this month, United Way wishes to celebrate the women here in Delaware County who have helped shape our community. Several times throughout this month we will feature unique women who have left their mark on women’s history as well as our community.

Today’s Woman from Delaware County’s History is Polly Frazer. Polly Frazer lived during the revolutionary war, and was married to an officer in George Washington’s Continental Army. Her husband was a spy for Washington and after the Battle of the Brandywine was captured and imprisoned by the British Army. Two days after the Battle of the Brandywine, Frazer’s house was surrounded by 250 members of the British Army. While the rest of her household left and hid, she waited and faced the British Army. When interrogated, she stood her ground and did not give up the whereabouts of any of Washington’s men. The British ransacked her home, threatened her, and one of the British men even attempted to strike her; but still she never wavered.

Although she plays a small role in Delaware County history, she is still a prime example of strength in women’s history. When faced by 250 men, threatening her and stealing her possessions, she remained brave and steadfast in her loyalty. In 1997, she was inducted into the Delaware County’s Women’s Hall of Fame where her legacy and story continue to impress Delaware County residents.

To read more about other inductees into the Delaware County Women's Hall of Fame, please go here: Women's History Month