Nathan Hale Remembered At His CT Home Exactly 250 Years After His Execution

COVENTRY, CT — The Nathan Hale Homestead is marking the 250th anniversary of the execution of Nathan Hale, the young Continental Army officer who was hanged by British forces after being captured while serving as a spy during the American Revolution.

Hale, a Coventry native and captain in the Continental Army, was executed Sept. 22, 1776, in New York after British authorities discovered that he had been gathering intelligence on American military positions.

According to homestead officials, An account of Hale's final hours was later provided by Capt. William Hull of the Continental Army, who said he learned details from a British officer who had witnessed Hale's interrogation and execution.

According to Hull's account, Hale had traveled through British-held areas of Long Island and York Island, where he obtained sketches of fortifications and recorded information about the number and locations of British forces, Hale Homestead officials tell us.

After his capture, Hale was taken before British Gen. William Howe. The papers found concealed on him revealed his purpose, according to Hull's account.

Hale acknowledged his name, rank in the American army and his mission behind British lines, Hull wrote. Howe ordered his execution for the following morning without a trial, according to the account.

Hull said Hale asked for a clergyman as his execution approached but was refused, Hale Homestead officials tell us.. He also requested a Bible, which was denied, Hale Homestead officials tell us.

A British officer who witnessed Hale's final hours told Hull that he allowed Hale to sit in his tent while preparations for the execution were made, Hale Homestead officials tell us.

The officer described Hale as calm and dignified. Hale requested writing materials and wrote two letters, one to his mother and another to a fellow officer, according to Hull's account.

Hale was then taken to the gallows.

The account says Hale's final words became associated with his sacrifice for the American cause: “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country.”

Hale was 21 years old when he was executed. Hale was named the official state hero of Connecticut in 1985.

The Nathan Hale Homestead in Coventry, operated by the Connecticut Landmarks organization, commemorates the life and legacy of Hale, who was born in Coventry in 1755.