Introduction

When we think of the women who played a significant role in shaping top historical events, the name Angelica Schuyler Church stands out. Angelica, the eldest of the Schuyler sisters, was a prominent figure in the American Revolutionary War’s political and social scene. She was known for her wit, intelligence, and charm that attracted many dignitaries to her circle. Her life was a fascinating journey of love, politics, and diplomacy.

In this post, we’ll reveal 5 fascinating facts about Angelica Schuyler Church that will blow your mind.

1. Angelica Schuyler Church’s marriage

Angelica Schuyler Church married John Barker Church, a wealthy Englishman, in 1777, during the peak of the American Revolution. Angelica’s father, General Philip Schuyler, did not approve of the marriage since John was an Englishman, and the Schuyler family supported the American Revolution.

Despite her father’s disapproval, Angelica married John and moved to England. It was her love for John that led Angelica to agree to the marriage. She remained married to John until his death in 1817.

2. Angelica Schuyler Church’s friendship with Thomas Jefferson

Angelica Schuyler Church was a close friend of Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States. Their friendship began when Angelica visited Jefferson at Monticello, Virginia, in 1782. Jefferson was impressed by Angelica’s intellect and charm, and their friendship blossomed over the years.

Angelica and Jefferson remained in correspondence for many years, and their letters provide an insightful glimpse of their friendship. In one of her letters to Jefferson, Angelica wrote, “I believe you know more of my heart by intuition than by anything I can say.”

3. Angelica Schuyler Church’s involvement in politics

Angelica Schuyler Church was politically active and well-connected. She was often present at political events and gatherings, hobnobbing with influential figures of the time. Through her connection with influential politicians such as Alexander Hamilton, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin, Angelica had a great impact on shaping political events.

Angelica was also involved in philanthropic efforts, and she supported many charities. One of her most significant contributions was to help established the New York Orphan Asylum.

4. Angelica Schuyler Church’s return to America

In 1814, several years after her husband’s death, Angelica Schuyler Church returned to America after many years of living abroad. She came back to see her sister, Eliza Hamilton, the widow of Alexander Hamilton. Eliza and Angelica shared a deep bond, and Eliza was ecstatic about her older sister’s return.

Angelica’s return to America also provided her with an opportunity to reconnect with her old friends and acquaintances.

5. Angelica Schuyler Church’s legacy

Angelica Schuyler Church’s legacy is that of a remarkable woman who lived during a crucial period in America’s history. She was a woman way ahead of her time, and her legacy has inspired many women to strive for greatness in their lives. Her wit, intelligence, and charm have been the topic of discussion for many years.

Notable historian Ron Chernow praised Angelica’s influence in shaping America’s political scene and praised her intelligence and wit. He called her the “capable matriarch of the Schuyler family” in his best-selling work, Alexander Hamilton.

FAQs

Q1. Who was Angelica Schuyler Church?

A1. Angelica Schuyler Church was the eldest of the Schuyler sisters and was known for her wit, intelligence, and charm. She played a significant role in shaping the American Revolution’s political and social scene.

Q2. How did Angelica’s marriage to John Barker Church affect her relationship with her family?

A2. Angelica’s father, General Philip Schuyler, did not approve of her marriage to John Barker Church since he was an Englishman, and the Schuyler family supported the American Revolution. This marriage strained her relationship with her family.

Q3. Who were Angelica Schuyler Church’s friends?

A3. Angelica Schuyler Church was friends with some of the most influential figures of her time, including Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, and Alexander Hamilton.

Q4. What was Angelica Schuyler Church’s contribution to philanthropy?

A4. Angelica Schuyler Church supported many charitable causes, including the New York Orphan Asylum.

Q5. What was Angelica Schuyler Church’s legacy?

A5. Angelica Schuyler Church’s legacy is that of a remarkable woman who lived during a crucial period in America’s history. She was admired for her wit, intelligence, and charm and her influence in shaping America’s political scene.

Q6. Why did Angelica Schuyler Church return to America?

A6. Angelica Schuyler Church returned to America in 1814 to see her sister, Eliza Hamilton, the widow of Alexander Hamilton. She also came back to reconnect with her old friends and acquaintances.

Q7. Who praised Angelica Schuyler Church, and why?

A7. Notable historian Ron Chernow praised Angelica’s influence in shaping America’s political scene and admired her intelligence and wit. He called her the “capable matriarch of the Schuyler family” in his best-selling work, Alexander Hamilton.

Conclusion

Angelica Schuyler Church was a remarkable woman who lived during a crucial period in America’s history. Her legacy has inspired many women to strive for greatness in their lives. She was politically active and well-connected, and her wit, intelligence, and charm attracted many dignitaries to her circle. Through her connection with influential politicians and philanthropic efforts, Angelica had a great impact on shaping political events. Her life was indeed a fascinating journey of love, politics, and diplomacy.