An exploration of women's involvement in the Latin American Wars of Independence

Mercedes Decimavilla de Illingworth

Click on the image below to see the full-size image

Medals

Gender:Female

Ethnic origen: White

Events:

Connections:

Biography:
Born in 1809 to Spanish parents, she married Juan Illingworth, Intendente de Guayaquil, in 1823. A fervent patriot, in 1825 she sailed with Illingworth him to Callao to take part in the blockade. She was awarded the Cruz de Honor by Bolívar for her bravery and was denoted "Colaboradora de la Independencia".




Illingworth was later transferred to Cartagena, and left the administration of his haciendas in Decimilla's hands. Following the assassination of Dávalos, she hid in a campesino's hut following fears that she'd be taken hostage. She remained there until Illingworth had re-established government. In 1831, during Flores's presidency, she and Illingworth were held on the island of Puná. Illingworth fled to Tumbez, Decimilla was imprisoned and interrogated, but refused to give the whereabouts of her husband. She went to join Illingworth in Paita, their wealth was confiscated. Their political enemies were defeated in 1836, enabling them to return to Ecuador. Their property was ruined, but they were able to make a living from the land. She died in 1879. (Estrada, 51-54).

References:

Brown, Matthew (2006) Adventuring through Spanish Colonies: Simón Bolívar, Foreign Mercenaries and the Birth of New Nations
Estrada, Jenny (1984) Mujeres de Guayaquil, siglo XVI al siglo XX