Catharine Littlefield, born in 1755 in what was then the British colony of Rhode Island, would grow up to become a dedicated wife and supporter of those around her, as well as a woman who could take action on her own when needed. Her mother died early during her childhood, and she was sent to live with her aunt and uncle, Catharine Ray (her namesake) and William Greene. It was while living with them that she met and fell in love with a frequent visitor, Nathanael Greene. The two wed in 1774, despite a 12-year age gap.
The Revolutionary War
Nathanael Greene was already heavily involved in colonial politics and the military while courting Catharine. In 1774, he helped to form Rhode Island’s militia unit, the “Army of Observation,” which would later be absorbed into the Continental Army. He was appointed a major general at age 34.Nathanael proved his loyalty and skill at the battles of Trenton in New Jersey and Brandywine in Pennsylvania, earning the respect of George Washington. In 1778, he was promoted to quartermaster general due to his administrative abilities. Two years later, Nathanael left that position to lead a small army into the South, where his strategic thinking and guerilla tactics led to victory over much larger British forces.
