Share Your Stories: Esther de Berdt Reed, Empowering Women in the American Revolution

Esther de Berdt Reed (1746–1780) was a Philadelphian dedicated to the idea of independence and became a critical voice in rallying women’s support for the American Revolution. Though born in England, she became a passionate patriot for her adopted home along with her husband, John Reed, who served in the Continental Congress and later became Governor of Pennsylvania. In 1780, Esther wrote a proclamation titled “Sentiments of an American Woman”, addressed to the women of British-occupied Philadelphia and urging them to support the fight for independence and to distance themselves from British sympathizers. She also stressed that women were equal to men when it came to acts of patriotism. Her call to action resulted in the formation of the Ladies’ Association of Philadelphia, which included many prominent Philadelphia women, including Sarah Franklin Bache, Ben Franklin’s daughter.

Reed used her political and social connections effectively and inspired women to support the American army by reminding them of previous contributions to the American cause. She highlighted how women across the colonies had participated in tea boycotts and engaged in spinning bees, both acts of female political activism carried out in support of the Revolution.

Working independently without relying on men, nearly 50 women went door to door around Philadelphia to hand out Reed’s publication — in defiance of expectations for women’s behavior at the time — and successfully garnered support from women of all economic and social classes. As a result, the Ladies’ Association of Philadelphia raised around $300,000 for the Continental Army and, at the request of George Washington, used the money to buy linen and sew shirts for his soldiers. The efforts of this group of Philadelphia women — who inspired other women’s movements in New Jersey, Maryland, and Virginia — played a significant role in the success of the American Revolution.

Reed, a woman of independent spirit, served as an inspiration to countless others who were dedicated to the cause of American independence. Sadly, she died young due to poor health and was broadly mourned by all of Philadelphia. Her obituary implied that she died young because she had “imposed upon herself too great a part of the task” of the Ladies Association. Esther is buried in the Arch Street Presbyterian Church cemetery.

Esther’s legacy of women’s activism — especially as a wife and young mother with several small children — is noteworthy for her time: “Her involvement in public affairs and her often-criticized efforts to include women in patriotic activities broadened the role of women in the new country and established a political agency that would impact future generations of women.”

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The Encyclopedia of Greater Philadelphia is an extensive collaborative project that provides a wealth of information about the history, culture, and people of the Philadelphia region. It covers neighborhoods, institutions, events, industries, and influential figures. The content is written by historians, scholars, and experts, and is regularly updated.

Read more about the revolutionary Philadelphian Esther de Berdt Reed at their website https://philadelphiaencyclopedia.org/essays/ladies-association-of-philadelphia/

This blog is part of PHILADELPHIA250’s Share Your Stories program, which celebrates all Philadelphians, past and present who are a part of our history — making sure no one is left out of the story. If you have a story about a special person or place you’d like to share with us, please contact us through this form.