When we think of the American Revolution, we often picture soldiers, statesmen, and battlefield victories. Yet an entire generation of children lived through the upheaval, uncertainty, and promise of a nation being born. From young drummer boys and messengers to daughters managing households and children recording extraordinary events in their diaries, the Revolution shaped—and was shaped by—the lives of America's youngest generation.
This lecture explores the many ways children experienced the Revolutionary era. Through firsthand accounts, personal stories, and historical records, discover how young people navigated wartime hardships, assumed new responsibilities, witnessed momentous events, and contributed to their families and communities during the struggle for independence. Attendees will also learn how to uncover these records and resources for people in their own family tree.
These stories offer more than historical context—they provide a glimpse into the childhood experiences, family responsibilities, and formative moments that may have shaped your own Revolutionary-era ancestors and the generations they inspired.
Registration in this program includes access to a 60-minute live broadcast, recording, and other materials for the foreseeable future.
Join the Live Broadcast
Click here to join the live broadcast: https://zoom.us/j/94040431589
Saturday, July 18 2:00 - 3:00 PM ET
If you are unable to attend the live session you will be able to view the full recording on this webpage.
Lecture Materials
To come.
About the Speaker
Melanie McComb, Senior Genealogist, holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the State University of New York at Oswego. She is an international lecturer who teaches on various topics including colonial through twentieth-century American military research, genetic genealogy, Atlantic Canadian, African American, Jewish, and Irish genealogy. She is also an Honorary Fellow of the Massachusetts Historical Society. She has had articles published in American Ancestors Magazine and Fifty Plus Advocate. She is a blogger, known as The Shamrock Genealogist.
Other Resources
Revolutionary Roots website
American Ancestors magazine article: Finding Revolutionary War Patriots in Your Family Tree
American Ancestors magazine article: Strategies for Tracing Revolutionary War Veterans
Archived webinar: Friend or Foe: Researching Colonial Ancestors During the American Revolution
Archived webinar: Applying to Revolutionary War Lineage Societies