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Page 20 text:
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Although our narrative is concluded, the les- sons generated by the lives of the men and women of the revolutionary days are as applic- able today in this bicentennial year as they were in those times. , It was John Dickenson, a prominent citizen of the revolutionary era who said that experi- ence should guide us, not philosophers.” As we set forth to create our own experiences, we should take time to reflect on how we got where we are and where we are going. The Revolution’s most positive aspect was that it created independence for our forebear- ers. Hopefully our undergraduate experience has likewise created an independent spirit in each of us. A contemporary historian, William Fowler asserts that it is unfortunate that the bicenten- nial may leave no long lasting implications on the nation. He contends that it ' s not really a celebration — it’s play. However, it is much too early to speculate upon whatever lasting ef- fects the bicentennial will have upon us. Yet, most of us realize the profound significance of the events which took place 200 years ago. It is the true meaning of those times we celebrate in this bicentennial year. So as we embark upon our own careers, let us profit from the actual experiences of those men and women of revolutionary times. Al- though some of them held political views dif- ferent from our own, it is difficult to question the integrity, sincerity and honesty of those who fought for what they believed. We might ponder the nobler aspects of their lives and adopt them as our own. Consider the self control portrayed by Bathesheba Spooner as she ascended the gallows. Question the loy- alty and integrity of Brigadier Ruggles as he abandoned his life style and fortune for a cause in which he believed. Think about the fierce- ness and devotion of Timothy Bigelow as he left his blacksmith shop to fan the fires of free- dom. Deliberate upon the determination, brav- ery and initiative exhibited by Deborah Sampson Gannett as she assumed an alien sex- ual identity in order to serve her country well. Contemplate the persistence of Henry Knox as he walked through the snows and rugged Berk- shire Hills to achieve his goal. If we truly reflect upon these deeds, we will know what the bicentennial is all about and our lives will be enriched by it.
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Page 19 text:
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During her initial confinement, she is reported to have stated to a constable that “this happened by means of Ross’ being sick at our house.” While in jail she confessed to the clergyman that she was pregnant. However, she asked only for a suspension of death until after the birth of her child. The Governor’s Council granted a delay until July 2, 1778 for the purpose of medical examination. The opinion was divided among the doctors so the delay was not granted to a later date. The June 25, 1778 edition of the Massachusetts Spy reported that there was expected to be a large concourse of people who probably would attend the “turning off’ (of the scaffold), as the hanging was called in that day. Worcester’s population at that time was less than 2500, and approximately 5000 attended the event. Bathesheba was driven from the jail to the place of execution by the Reverend Mr. Maccarthy in his carriage, while the three men walked. They were guarded by 100 men. The hanging took place at Washington Square in view of the public. Immediately prior to the hanging, a fierce thunderstorm occurred for about a half hour, delaying the event and causing great excitement around the area. When her time came, Bathesheba Spooner ascended the stage and taking the Sheriff s hand is reported to have said; “My dear sir, I am ready! In a little time I expect to be in bliss; and a few years must elapse when I hope I shall see you and my other friends again.” When the hanging was over, an autopsy was performed on Bathesheba’s body and an unborn male fetus was removed from her womb. Speculation has it that had this event occurred today, Bathesheba would not have been put to death. Furthermore, if she had not been the daughter of Timothy Ruggles, she would have been spared. Nevertheless, Bathesheba Ruggles Spooner remains the only woman ever executed in Worcester County to date. When the execution and subsequent examination were completed, her body was turned over to her sister, Mary Ruggles Green. Bathesheba was buried quickly in an unmarked grave somewhere in what is now known as Green Hill Park. 15
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