Revolutionary War Heroine, Margaret Corbin, Honored by DAR

Honorary Regent Rosemarie Schmidt represented the Polly Cooper Chapter at a ceremony honoring the memory of Revolutionary War heroine Margaret Cochran Corbin, held on May 6, 2025, at the Old Cadet Chapel on the grounds of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.

Nearly 100 members of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution from throughout New York State attended this annual event, which marks its 99th year. Cadet Dana Lee, a member of the Class of 2027, spoke about the impact of Corbin as a role model for female cadets. Margaret Corbin took over her husband’s position at the cannon after he was killed during the Battle of Fort Washington. She was wounded in battle and became the first American woman to receive a military pension in recognition of her service.

This year’s ceremony also coincided with the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army. To commemorate the occasion, the NYS Officers Club presented a check for $5,000 to support the restoration of West Point’s Revolutionary War fortifications.

Col. Kaye Matthew delivered the opening remarks, and a memorial wreath was laid at Margaret’s cenotaph. Following the memorial service at the Old Cadet Chapel, members and cadets enjoyed a delicious lunch at Eisenhower Hall, where they listened to an outstanding keynote address by Col. Sean Scully from the West Point History Department.

Polly Cooper Chapter, NSDAR was established in Chappaqua, New York, and our service projects have supported education and literacy, historic preservation, conservation initiatives, veterans and active-duty service members, genealogy research, naturalization ceremonies for new citizens and more. Now is a great time to discover if you have an American Revolutionary ancestor as our nation approaches the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026.For more information about the Polly Cooper Chapter, NSDAR, their activities, and membership, please email the chapter at info@pollycooperdar.org.