Imagining Nathan Hale's New London

June 19, 2012, New London, CT—

The Connecticut Sons of the American Revolution have teamed up with graphic novelist Lora Innes, who has been writing and illustrating an online and print comic about Revolutionary War history since 2007. With assistance from historian Rachel Smith, project consultant Jennifer Eifrig of Musevue360, and staff from the New London County Historical Society, Ms. Innes is recreating the New London that Nathan Hale encountered in 1774-75, including people, buildings, and landmarks. Says Connecticut SAR Real Property Steward Stephen Shaw, “We’re showing a graphic novel on the wall. It’s the very best kind of public history – rooted in research, and made fun and accessible for modern audiences.” Adds Jennifer Eifrig, “We’ve got all the elements of a great narrative, including a likeable hero, fascinating supporting characters, action, conflict, even a bit of romance, all against the backdrop of the looming Revolution that will change everything. And every bit of the story is real history.” Says Rachel Smith. “We’ve uncovered a lot of new information about Nathan Hale’s New London, that will change the way we think about this city.”

Grand Opening June 30, 2012

Visitors are invited to view “Nathan Hale’s New London” at the School House, 19 Atlantic St., New London beginning June 30. Starting at 2:00, the opening will feature guest speakers and members of the CTSSAR Color Guard in costume. Admission is free.

Drawing the American Revolution

Graphic novelist Lora Innes writes and draws The Dreamer, about a young woman’s adventures in 1776 (www.thedreamercomic.com). Ms. Innes’ cast of characters includes Nathan Hale, who was a captain in Knowlton’s Rangers. “I’m thrilled at the opportunity to work with Connecticut SAR to tell more of Nathan’s story,” she says. “This is just the kind of project that I like.”

A New London Landmark Since 1776

Built in 1773, the Union School House welcomed Nathan Hale as schoolmaster in March of 1774. Nathan was popular with his students and the residents of his adopted city, and when he joined the army in July 1775 he left many concerned friends behind. After he was hanged on Sept. 22, 1776, the people of New London regarded the school at which he had taught as a local monument to his memory. After being converted to a private residence in the 1830s, and a major fire in 1853, the School House was purchased by the Connecticut Sons of the American Revolution in 1900 and opened as one of Connecticut’s earliest historic building museums.

About the Connecticut Society of the Sons of the American Revolution

The Connecticut SAR is dedicated to remembering the lives and sacrifices of the patriots of the American Revolution. Its members in Connecticut participate in Revolutionary War events, conduct research, and operate three Connecticut museums—The War Office in Lebanon and the Nathan Hale School houses in East Haddam and New London. For more information, visit www.ConnecticutSAR.org.

# # #