When General George Washington’s army ran out of food while taking refuge in Valley Forge during the winter of 1777, Polly Cooper of Oneida Indian Nation helped save them from starving, writes David Streater for The McDowell News.

Washington chose to settle in Valley Forge for the winter after a battle against the British military on October 4, 1977, at Germantown. The Continental Army became disoriented in a thick fog, which led to friendly fire injuries and deaths and Washington’s decision to retreat.

The winter was brutal and made supplying the troops with essentials like food and clothes nearly impossible. The soldiers were freezing and starving.

Polly Cooper of the Oneida Indian Nation made the grueling journey with a select group of her tribe from Central New York, carrying food and supplies.

She remained with the troops after the Oneidas left to ensure the unique corn, which would have killed the soldiers if eaten raw, was cooked properly.

She refused payment for her heroic services. Instead, she was presented with a bonnet and shawl she was interested in by Martha Washington.

Read more about Polly Cooper and her crucial work for Washington’s Army in The McDowell News.

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