[1] Gurruchaga (née Córdoba) was born on 3 November 1790 in Salta, then part of the Spanish Viceroyalty of the Río de la Plata.

Gurruchaga would invite pro-independence leaders to stay in her home, and organized the donation of cloth, money, and weapons for the Argentine army.

In 1813, an Argentine army led by Manuel Belgrano advanced towards the city, with intention of liberating it and defeating the Spanish garrison.

In preparation for Belgrano's arrival, Gurruchaga armed a company of soldiers, gathered supplies, and sewed a blue and white battle flag.

The battle was a major victory for the United Provinces of Argentina, and out of gratitude for her actions, Belgrano granted Gurruchaga the ceremonial rank of captain.