The Extraordinary Story of Sybil Ludington

American Revolutionary War Heroine Sybil Ludington, was born April 5, 1761 in Fredericksburg, New York. Similar to Paul Revere, Sybil became famous for her ride to warn the patriot militia of a British attack near Danbury, Connecticut when she was only 16 years old.

On the night of April 26, 1777 a wounded messenger barely reached Sybil’s home. Sybil’s father, Colonel Henry Ludington, was a veteran of the French-Indian War and commander of the militia in Duchess County, New York, near Danbury, Connecticut. Ludington’s 400 men were on temporary leave of duty at the time. As the British entered Danbury they found American military stores unguarded and began looting and burning the town.

It is unknown if Colonel Ludington asked his oldest daughter to undertake the dangerous mission to alert the militia or if the young woman bravely volunteered. Regardless, Sybil rode off late in the evening to warn the men.

The story is told that Sybil raced on her horse, Star, through the night until the early morning. She rode 40 miles, more than twice the distance Paul Revere travelled. Rallying the 400 men, Sybil endured driving rain and the attack of a highwayman whom she fought off with her father’s musket. The troops weren’t able to save Danbury, but did stop the British advance and pushed them back to their boats on Long Island Sound. This became part of the Battle of Ridgefield on April 27, 1777. The supposed route for the ride can be seen today by historical markers created to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the American Revolution.

Sybil’s ride became a beacon for ordinary people to perform extraordinary feats during times of adversity, and earned her a place in our country’s history. To nominate someone for the Sybil Ludington Award please click the button below. All nominations must be made through written recommendation and be received by Nov. 1 of the current year.