She published Sentiments of an American Woman which called for financial sacrifice and an increased role of women in public service.

[4] Esther and Joseph maintained a secret, long-distance relationship through letters for five years while he was back in New Jersey.

[6] Esther attended to her husband's legal practice by helping him with correspondence and keeping business records.

[7] On June 12, 1780, Reed published Sentiments of an American Woman, which called for financial sacrifice and an increased role for women in public service.

[7] Esther's husband wrote to General George Washington on June 20, 1780 to tell him about the funds raised by the women's efforts.

[10] They exchanged in correspondence in which Washington reiterated to Esther that the funds would be better suited towards clothing because some men would misuse it on things such as alcohol.

[10] Esther agreed to buy linen to make clothing for General Washington and his army by the end of summer.