Revolution
Introduction
When tensions between the American colonies and Britain erupted into war, George Washington took command of the Continental Army. Martha Washington then took on additional roles in his absence. Her roles as comforter and confidant to her husband, as head of her household, and as the symbol of women's contributions to the War of Independence were crucial to the morale and the success of the Revolution. Martha often travelled with her husband during the war, and the trunk shown here is a symbol of some of the sacrifices she and her family made to support the Continental Army.