Women often remain unsung heroes during warfare, particularly prior to World War I (when they were finally allowed to enlist). Because women typically serve in unofficial or unrecognized capacities during wartime, obtaining documentation regarding them may prove challenging if not impossible; yet this does not indicate no service!
Researching female ancestors often requires creative thinking in order to unearth wartime connections. Perhaps your relative helped the United States Sanitary Commission during the American Civil War or perhaps she worked at a factory during World War II; records like meeting minutes or employment documents could be available and your local library is an ideal starting place.
From nurses and abolitionists to test pilots, here are just a few ways women have assisted the United States during its major conflicts over time. Perhaps your own female ancestor was among them?
This list is by no means comprehensive, yet it is certainly fascinating to note the increasing role women have played with each major conflict. Women have played and continue to play an immense role in serving our nation – “we can do it!” has always been true!
