Civil War: Women Spies

 

Rose O'Neal Greenhow A prominent Washington, D.C., socialite and Confederate sympathizer, Greenhow ran a spy ring that gathered intelligence from Union officials. Her reports helped the Confederacy win the First Battle of Bull Run. Imprisoned twice, she continued smuggling information even after exile. Her espionage demonstrated how women could leverage social access for military advantage.

Belle Boyd Nicknamed the "Siren of the Shenandoah," this 17-year-old Virginian became one of the Confederacy's most famous spies. She provided key intelligence to Stonewall Jackson during the Shenandoah Valley Campaign and was arrested multiple times. Her daring operations and charm made her a celebrity on both sides, highlighting women's covert contributions to the Southern cause.

Elizabeth Van Lew A wealthy Unionist in Confederate Richmond, Van Lew operated one of the most effective spy networks of the war. She smuggled information to Union generals (including Grant), aided prisoner escapes from Libby Prison, and even planted a spy in Jefferson Davis's household. Her efforts provided vital intelligence that shortened the war in Virginia.

The Confederate Woman: Soldier and Spy

Women Doctors in the Civil War