In the wake of the American Revolution, she faced severe hardships, including the confiscation of her property due to her husband's anti-independence stance,[1][2] which led to the loss of her social standing and pride.
[4] This diary has become an important source for historians seeking to understand the experiences of female loyalists and provides a unique perspective on the Revolutionary War that had previously been underrepresented in historical accounts.
[2] Her father, Lawrence Growden, was a prosperous businessman and influential figure,[4] owning Durham Iron Furnace, serving on the Pennsylvania assembly, and amassing ten thousand acres of land.
[7] Following the death of Grace’s father, Joseph inherited her share of the family’s property, which included Trevose (Growden Mansion), Belmont, Richlieu, King's Place, and Durham Lands.
[4] Before the American Revolution, Grace Galloway was a prominent figure in Pennsylvania society,[1] partly due to her husband’s significant political role as a loyalist.
[3] Initially intended to update her husband on her daily activities, the diary soon evolved into a means for Grace to record her emotions, conversations,[3] and efforts to regain her daughter Betsy's inheritance.
[8] In January 1779, Grace was offered the opportunity to repurchase her property, but doing so would have required her to acknowledge the authority of the state and potentially face charges of treason.