John Pierce Sr. died, leaving brother John Jr. responsible for the family. To prepare Sarah and her sister Mary for self-sufficiency, John Jr. sent them to New York City schools specifically to train as teachers.
Source: Litchfield Historical Society, "Litchfield Female Academy History"
Quote: "Pierce sent his younger sisters Mary and Sarah to New York City schools specifically to train to become teachers so that they could help support their step-mother and younger half-siblings." — Litchfield Historical Society, Litchfield Ledger, "Female Academy History"
1775–1783 — The American Revolution. Abel Brace is commissioned Captain in the 18th Regiment of the Connecticut Militia. He commands a company and leads his men against British forces during Governor William Tryon's raids into Connecticut. He is listed as "Braw" and "Brau" in some military records. He serves with "honor and distinction."
Source: Find a Grave, Memorial #12212702; WikiTree, Abel Brace (1740–1832), Profile Brace-733.
Quote: "When the Revolution broke out he was made a Captain in the 18th Regiment of the Connecticut Militia and served with honor and distinction in the war. He led his company against the British forces when Tryon invaded the colony."