The American Revolution was the unofficial start of the courier service in the country, long before Wells Fargo (1852) started operating. There were some couriers who worked during the war not knowing that they were performing what would become known as courier services. These people worked for the colonies during the revolution and helped spread information throughout the war.

“The British are coming. The British are coming.”

The most famous line from the American Revolution was uttered by none other than Paul Revere. Known as Paul Revere’s Ride, the American colonist instantly became a courier when he rode his horse through Boston alerting the American troops that the British were coming across the Charles River from Boston and headed towards Concord.

Revere was joined by William Dawes that night. They were informed by the President of the Massachusetts Provincial Congress, Joseph Warren, of the British plans for troop movement.

Revere was just one of 40 couriers that night to alert the people of Concord and Lexington, that the British troops were on the move. A series of lanterns were used as a silent signal. Once Revere notified the sexton of North Church that the troops were on the move, the sexton lit a lantern. More and more lanterns were lit and people took the warning and evacuated the cities.

Because Revere and the rest of the couriers were able to alert the townspeople and commanders, the rebel militias were able to drive the British back to Charleston after skirmishes in Lexington and Concord.

“Mad Ann” Makes her Mad Dash

A little known woman named Ann Hennis Trotter Bailey, or “Mad Ann,” worked as a courier during the American Revolution. She also worked as a scout during the war. “Mad Ann” made a name for herself by making a 100-mile ride to Fort Savannah from Fort Clendenin to transport gunpowder for the rebel troops.

Contact the experienced staff at Econo-Courier today to discuss your courier needs. The office in Parsippany can be reached via phone at 973-882-8004.