Our City: Women of the Revolution with Joanne Rajoppi
Guest: Joanne Rajoppi, Union County Clerk & President of the Union County Historical Society
In this episode of Our City: Stories That Shape America, Mayor J. Christian Bollwage welcomes Union County Clerk and historical author Joanne Rajoppi to shine a light on the often overlooked women of the American Revolution. Drawing on her deep knowledge of local history, Rajoppi recounts powerful stories from Elizabeth, Springfield, and across Union County that reveal how women defended their homes, protected vital information, and kept families and communities together while men were away at war.
The conversation includes vivid accounts of Governor William Livingston’s daughters, known as the “Three Graces” at Liberty Hall, the bold defiance of Hannah Arnett as she challenged men considering British amnesty, and the tragic martyrdom of Hannah Caldwell during the Battle of Connecticut Farms. Rajoppi also shares the clever tactics of Rachel French in Springfield, whose quick thinking outwitted Hessian soldiers.
As America moves toward its 250th anniversary, this episode emphasizes the importance of bringing women’s narratives to the foreground. Through themes of sacrifice, patriotism, resilience, and moral courage, Rajoppi and Mayor Bollwage demonstrate how these stories deepen our understanding of independence and continue to echo in Union County’s identity today.
Episode Highlights
- Joanne Rajoppi reflects on her long career in public service and her passion for telling Union County’s history.
- The story of the “Three Graces” at Liberty Hall and how Susanna Livingston protected sensitive letters from George Washington.
- How Hannah Arnett confronted local men in Elizabethtown who considered accepting British amnesty, threatening to leave her husband if he did so.
- The heartbreaking account of Hannah Caldwell’s death during the Battle of Connecticut Farms and its lasting impact on local memory.
- How Hannah Caldwell’s murder became a rallying cry and later inspired the Union County Seal.
- Rachel French’s ingenious cellar trap for Hessian soldiers in Springfield and what it reveals about women’s courage and resourcefulness.
- The ongoing importance of teaching these women’s stories to new generations as part of the America 250 commemoration.
