PA Historic Places

Visiting the Molly Pitcher Monument and Gravesite in Carlisle

A collage of four photos featuring the Molly Pitcher monument and gravesite in Old Cemetery, Carlisle, PA. The top left image shows the statue of Molly Pitcher standing on a pedestal with an American flag beside it, surrounded by gravestones. The top right image is an illustration of Molly Pitcher operating a cannon during the Battle of Monmouth. The bottom left image shows a raised relief plaque on the monument depicting Molly Pitcher in battle, aiding with the cannon amid fallen soldiers. The bottom right image captures the monument from a different angle, highlighting the statue, the pedestal, and the surrounding cemetery with gravestones and American flags.

If you’re looking for information about visiting the Molly Pitcher monument and gravesite in Carlisle, you’re in the right place!

The photo shows the Molly Pitcher monument and gravesite in Old Cemetery, Carlisle, PA, on a sunny day. The statue of Molly Pitcher stands on a pedestal, holding a cannon ramrod, with an American flag flying prominently beside it. A historical cannon and multiple American flags are placed around the monument. The surrounding cemetery features various gravestones and historical markers, with trees and buildings visible in the background, creating a serene and respectful atmosphere.

The Molly Pitcher monument and gravesite offers a poignant glimpse into the life of one of America’s most-celebrated Revolutionary War heroines.

A painting depicts Molly Pitcher at the Battle of Monmouth, actively participating in the battle by helping operate a cannon alongside other soldiers. She is dressed in a green bodice and striped apron, with a determined expression as she works the cannon. Around her, soldiers are engaged in intense combat, with smoke and gunfire filling the scene. Fallen soldiers lie on the ground, illustrating the chaos and brutality of the battle. The painting is framed in a golden frame, highlighting its importance and artistic value. — Part of a Molly Pitcher Exhibit at the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia in 2022 (painting by Don Troiani).

Directions | Hours | Parking

The Molly Pitcher monument and gravesite are located in Carlisle’s Old Public Graveyard, between South Hanover and South Bedford streets.

The cemetery is open from sunrise to sunset.

The photo shows a side view of the Molly Pitcher monument and gravesite in Old Cemetery, Carlisle, PA, on a sunny day. The monument features a statue of Molly Pitcher standing atop a pedestal, holding a cannon ramrod. An American flag flies beside the monument. In the foreground, a large stone with a bronze plaque commemorates Revolutionary War soldiers buried in the cemetery. Surrounding the monuments are numerous gravestones and American flags, creating a solemn and respectful atmosphere. Trees and historic buildings are visible in the background, adding to the historical significance of the site.

While the cemetery has no parking lot of its own, I had no problem finding free parking one block away along South Hanover Street, near the Molly Pitcher historical marker (see map above).

The photo shows a blue historical marker in Carlisle, PA, dedicated to Molly Pitcher. The marker reads: "Molly Pitcher. Mary Ludwig Hays McCauley, known as 'Molly Pitcher,' heroine at Battle of Monmouth, is buried in Old Graveyard just east of here. In this burial ground are graves of many distinguished citizens. Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission." The marker stands on a sidewalk with a street and red brick buildings in the background. The bright sunny day highlights the vibrant colors of the marker and the surrounding urban setting.

Who Was Molly Pitcher?

Born in 1744 in New Jersey, Mary Ludwig Hays, better known as Molly Pitcher, rose from humble beginnings to become a symbol of courage and resilience.

The photo shows a commemorative plaque at the base of the Molly Pitcher monument in Old Cemetery, Carlisle, PA. The plaque details the life of Mary Ludwig, known as Molly Pitcher, born on October 13, 1744, and died on January 22, 1832. It outlines her marriage to John Hays, his enlistment in the Continental Army, and her heroic actions at the Battle of Monmouth. After her husband's death, she married Sergeant George McKolly (or McCauley). The plaque also mentions the pension granted to her by the Pennsylvania Assembly for her service. The monument was erected by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania on June 28, 1916. The grass surrounding the plaque and a partial view of an American flag add to the historical and respectful ambiance.

Sent to Carlisle as a young girl to work in the household of Colonel William Irvine, Mary later married William Hays, a local barber.

The photo shows the Molly Pitcher monument and gravesite in Carlisle, PA, on a sunny day. The statue of Molly Pitcher stands prominently atop the monument, holding a cannon ramrod. The monument is surrounded by American flags and a cannon, with historical buildings visible in the background. The cemetery grounds are well-maintained, with various gravestones and monuments visible, highlighting the site's historical significance.

Her life took a dramatic turn when William enlisted in Captain Thomas Proctor’s 4th Pennsylvania Artillery, a unit that eventually became part of the 4th Continental Artillery.

The photo shows a round bronze medallion at the base of the Molly Pitcher monument in Old Cemetery, Carlisle, PA. The medallion, attached to a metal rod, reads "Revolutionary Soldier 1775-1783" and features a raised image of two soldiers. The medallion is placed among small white rocks near the wheel of an old cannon, emphasizing its historical significance and connection to the Revolutionary War. The green patina on the bronze and the surrounding natural elements enhance the medallion's antique appearance.

During the harsh winter at Valley Forge in 1777-1778, Mary joined her husband at the military camp, performing vital support roles such as cooking, washing, and nursing.

Baron von Steuben instructing troops at Valley Forge public domain image. — Baron von Steuben instructing troops at Valley Forge in the winter of 1777 (public domain image).

Her most famous moment came on June 28, 1778, at the Battle of Monmouth in New Jersey.

The photo shows a raised relief plaque on the Molly Pitcher monument in Old Cemetery, Carlisle, PA. The plaque depicts a dramatic scene from the Battle of Monmouth, showing Molly Pitcher operating a cannon amidst the chaos of battle. She is seen pulling a cannon ramrod, surrounded by fallen and fighting soldiers. The detailed artwork captures the intensity and bravery of her actions. The plaque is mounted on the stone base of the monument, highlighting her heroic contributions during the Revolutionary War.

On that sweltering day, Mary earned her legendary nickname by tirelessly carrying water to soldiers and artillery pieces.

The photo shows a museum exhibit featuring a quote by Private Joseph Plumb Martin about a woman whose husband was in the artillery during a battle. The quote reads: "A woman whose husband belonged to the Artillery and who was attached to a piece in the engagement, attended with her husband at the piece the whole time...a cannon shot from the enemy passed directly between her legs without doing any more damage than carrying away all the lower part of her petticoat." Below the quote, there is a painting depicting the Battle of Monmouth, showing Molly Pitcher aiding in the operation of a cannon amidst the chaos of battle. An informational plaque about Molly Pitcher's role at the Battle of Monmouth is also displayed beside the painting. The exhibit is set against a dark blue wall, creating a respectful and informative display. — Exhibit at the Museum of the American Revolution.

When her husband collapsed from heatstroke, she fearlessly took his place at the cannon, a heroic act that was later recognized by General George Washington, who awarded her a non-commissioned officer’s rank.

An illustration depicts Molly Pitcher at the Battle of Monmouth, heroically taking over her husband's position at a cannon. She is dressed in a red skirt and blue bodice, holding a ramrod, with determination on her face. In the background, smoke and chaos of the battle are evident, while her wounded husband lies on the ground nearby. A water bucket lies overturned, symbolizing her original task of bringing water to cool the cannons and aid the soldiers. — Currier and Ives print featuring Molly Pitcher (public domain image).

Following the war, Mary and William returned to Carlisle, where they built a life together until William’s death in 1789.

The photo shows a wide view of Old Cemetery in Carlisle, PA, on a sunny day. Numerous gravestones of varying sizes and shapes are spread across the well-maintained grassy area. Tall trees provide a picturesque backdrop, and historic buildings are visible in the distance. The clear blue sky enhances the peaceful and serene atmosphere of the cemetery, which includes the gravesites of many Revolutionary War veterans, adding to the historical significance of the location.

Mary then married George McCauley, another Revolutionary War veteran.

Despite the hardships she faced, including financial struggles and the disappearance of her second husband, Mary remained a beloved figure in the community.

The photo shows a detailed plaque at the base of the Molly Pitcher monument in Old Cemetery, Carlisle, PA. The plaque recounts the heroic actions of Mary Ludwig Hays, known as Molly Pitcher, during the Battle of Monmouth on June 28, 1778. It describes how she took over her husband's position at the cannon after he was wounded and continued to serve bravely. The inscription also includes a poem by Sarah Woods Parkinson that honors Molly Pitcher's courage and contribution to the war effort. The plaque is set in a stone frame, with green grass surrounding it, and an American flag is visible at the edge of the photo.

In 1822, in recognition of her wartime service, the Pennsylvania legislature granted her an annual pension of $40.

The photo shows a detailed bronze relief on the Molly Pitcher monument in Old Cemetery, Carlisle, PA. The relief depicts a scene from the Battle of Monmouth, showing Molly Pitcher in the heat of battle, operating a cannon. She is portrayed pulling a ramrod, with determination evident in her stance. Nearby, a male soldier assists with the cannon, and other soldiers are engaged in the background. The relief captures the intensity and bravery of Molly Pitcher's actions during the Revolutionary War. The bronze artwork is intricately detailed, highlighting the historical significance of her contributions. — Battle of Monmouth monument in New Jersey (public domain image).

Mary Ludwig Hays McCauley passed away in 1832 at the age of 78, leaving behind a legacy of bravery and dedication.

The photo shows the weathered headstone of Molly McCauley, also known as Molly Pitcher, in Old Cemetery, Carlisle, PA. The inscription reads: "Mollie McCauley, honored as Molly Pitcher, the heroine of Monmouth. Died Jan 1832, aged 79 years." The headstone has a visible crack across its middle. In the background, other gravestones and American flags are visible, highlighting the historical significance of the cemetery. The bright blue sky and lush green grass provide a serene setting for this resting place of a Revolutionary War heroine.

The monument erected in her honor is a fitting tribute to a woman who, in the heat of battle, displayed remarkable valor and fortitude.

The photo shows the Molly Pitcher monument and gravesite in Old Cemetery, Carlisle, PA, on a bright, sunny day. The statue of Molly Pitcher stands on a pedestal, holding a cannon ramrod, with an American flag flying high beside it. A historical cannon and several American flags surround the monument, which is set among numerous gravestones. The cemetery is well-maintained, with green grass and clear blue skies adding to the serene and respectful atmosphere. Historical buildings are visible in the background, enhancing the historical significance of the site.

Additionally, the Old Public Graveyard in Carlisle is the final resting place of nearly 100 Revolutionary War veterans, including Brigadier General William Thompson.

The photo shows the gravesite of Brigadier General William Thompson in Old Cemetery, Carlisle, PA, on a clear day. The site is marked by a large Celtic cross headstone and surrounded by an ornate wrought iron fence. A plaque on the fence honors General Thompson as the first Colonel of the U.S. Army and commemorates his contributions. In the background, gravestones and historical buildings are visible, contributing to the cemetery's historic ambiance. An American flag is placed near the headstone, emphasizing the patriotic significance of the site.

This rich historical context enhances the sense of reverence and gratitude one feels while exploring this hallowed ground.

The photo shows a large bronze plaque mounted on a stone monument in Old Cemetery, Carlisle, PA. The plaque is dedicated to Revolutionary War soldiers buried in the cemetery and reads: "Erected by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in grateful appreciation of the services of these soldiers of the Revolutionary War who lie buried here." It lists the names of soldiers, including generals, captains, and privates, acknowledging their contributions and service. The stone monument and the blue sky in the background create a solemn and respectful atmosphere, honoring the memory of these war heroes.

Final Thoughts

A visit to the Molly Pitcher monument and gravesite in Carlisle is a journey into the heart of American history, providing valuable insights into the life and legacy of a remarkable woman.

Her story is a powerful reminder of the vital roles women played in the fight for American independence.

An engraving depicts Molly Pitcher at the Battle of Monmouth, operating a cannon in the midst of combat. She is shown pulling a ramrod with determination, surrounded by male soldiers who are also engaged in firing the cannon. A fallen soldier lies beneath the cannon, illustrating the chaos and intensity of the battle. The soldiers wear Revolutionary War uniforms, and a horseman is visible in the background, adding to the historical context of the scene. This engraving highlights Molly Pitcher's bravery and crucial role in the battle. — Molly Pitcher engraving (public domain image).

The monument and the serene surrounding cemetery provides a solemn yet inspiring atmosphere for visitors to contemplate and appreciate the sacrifices made by those who fought for American freedom.

The photo shows a close-up view of the Molly Pitcher statue at her monument and gravesite in Old Cemetery, Carlisle, PA. The statue depicts Molly Pitcher standing resolutely, holding a cannon ramrod with both hands. She is dressed in period clothing, with a determined expression on her face. The pedestal beneath the statue bears the inscription "Molly Pitcher" along with "Mary McKolley McCauley." The bright blue sky and surrounding trees provide a vivid backdrop, highlighting the statue's details and the historical significance of the site.

The Betsy Ross House in Philadelphia honors another heroine of the American Revolution by preserving the site where Betsy Ross is said to have sewn the first American flag in late May, 1776.

Exploring the Betsy Ross House in Philadelphia.

The Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia uses historic artifacts, dioramas, short films, paintings, and other exhibits to tell the story of the Revolutionary War in America.

Exploring the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia Pennsylvania.

Brandywine Battlefield Park in Chester County preserves and interprets the story of the Battle of Brandywine, the largest and longest single day land battle of the American Revolution.

A collage of four photos from Brandywine Battlefield Park in Chester County, Pennsylvania, showcases the historical significance of the site. The top left image features a historical marker detailing the Battle of the Brandywine, which occurred on September 11, 1777, where American forces attempted to halt the British advance. The top right image shows a cannon positioned in a field, representing the battlefield. The bottom left image depicts Washington's Headquarters, a stone house with a commemorative plaque. The bottom right image displays a museum exhibit with American military equipment, including firearms and a mannequin dressed in period attire. These images collectively highlight key aspects of the largest and longest single-day land battle of the American Revolution.

Independence Hall in Philadelphia is the birthplace of the United States; both The Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were signed here.

Exploring Independence Hall in Philadelphia.

Find even more great spots to explore in Cumberland County and all across Pennsylvania with the interactive PA Bucket List Travel Map!

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