Jacquelyn G.
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From History Vintage: In the early 1860s, Kady Brownell met and fell in love with Robert Brownell while working as a weaver in a textile mill. The two forged a deep bond, eventually living as husband and wife. However, their lives took a dramatic turn with the outbreak of the U.S. Civil War in 1861.
12:48 PM - Apr 21, 2024
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Jacquelyn G.
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Robert enlisted in the 1st Regiment Rhode Island Volunteer Infantry of the Union Army.

Refusing to be separated from her husband, Kady accompanied him into war.
12:48 PM - Apr 21, 2024
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Jacquelyn G.
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At a time when the idea of women in combat was unfathomable to most, she served openly alongside Robert after earning the respect of the soldiers and permission from the regiment's commander.
12:48 PM - Apr 21, 2024
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Jacquelyn G.
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She transcended traditional roles, going from vivandière—a support position typically available to women—to color bearer, a role steeped in valor and risk. Color bearers were often responsible for rallying and guiding troops during battle.
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Jacquelyn G.
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As often was the case for them, Kady had to take a position at the front of the regiment, very much in harm's way.

Kady's military service was a groundbreaking challenge to the era's gender barriers, earning her the profound respect of her peers.
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Jacquelyn G.
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After the war, in a testament to her service and that respect, Kady became the only woman to receive discharge papers from the Union Army. She was granted a pension and became a member of the Grand Army of the Republic, an organization of Union veterans. Kady passed away in 1915 at the age of 72.
12:48 PM - Apr 21, 2024
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