The coastal town of Corolla, North Carolina, is known for its pristine beaches, wild horses, and rich history. Among the legends of this area is the story of Betsy Dowdy, a courageous young woman whose midnight ride rivals that of Paul Revere. Her bravery and determination played a key role in the early days of the American Revolution, ensuring that rebel forces were prepared for the fight against British rule.

A Ride Through History

In December 1775, tensions between the American colonies and British rule were reaching a boiling point. The Royal Governor of Virginia, Lord Dunmore, had relocated to Norfolk, Virginia, and was amassing loyalist troops to crush the growing rebellion. In Currituck, North Carolina, a teenage girl named Betsy Dowdy learned of this and feared for her family’s farm and livestock. With the British forces moving closer, she knew she had to act.

Under the cover of darkness, Betsy saddled her faithful Banker horse, Black Bess, and began a daring journey. Her destination? The North Carolina militia in Perquimans County, more than 50 miles away. The journey was treacherous—Betsy and Black Bess had to cross the freezing waters of Currituck Sound, wading and swimming through the dark, choppy waves before continuing their ride through the rugged Carolina landscape.

By the morning of December 9, 1775, Betsy reached General William Skinner and delivered the urgent news. The North Carolina militia quickly mobilized, sending 100 troops north to join the rebel forces at Great Bridge, Virginia. Though they arrived too late to participate in the battle—one of the first major victories for the American Revolution—the reinforcements helped intimidate Dunmore, ultimately leading to the British evacuation.

Black Bess: A Horse of Legend

Betsy Dowdy’s ride would not have been possible without her trusty mount, Black Bess. This horse was no ordinary steed—her lineage traced back to the Spanish Mustangs brought to the Outer Banks by the Conquistadors centuries earlier. These Banker horses, known for their endurance and resilience, still roam the shores of Corolla today, a living connection to Betsy’s legendary ride.

A Legacy of Courage

While Betsy Dowdy’s story is not as well-documented as Paul Revere’s, her ride remains an essential part of North Carolina’s revolutionary history. Her courage exemplifies the spirit of the American fight for freedom, and her story continues to inspire those who visit Corolla and the Outer Banks.

Today, visitors can still see the descendants of Black Bess, the wild Banker horses, roaming free along the beaches of Corolla—a reminder of the daring ride that helped shape history.