New London in New London County, Connecticut — The American Northeast (New England)
Nathan Hale
Schoolteacher & Spy from Connecticut
Photographed By Bill Coughlin, October 9, 2011
1. Nathan Hale Marker
A Yale graduate, Hale began teaching here in the Union School House in 1774. He taught all ages and levels of boys at the same time. A progressive teacher for his day, Hale openly rewarded success in the classroom. He also believed in teaching girls, although at special times set apart from instruction for the boys.
Deeply committed to liberty, he left teaching to serve the American Army in 1775. During the New York Campaign, he volunteered to serve as a spy for General Washington. With the help of Stephen Hempstead, he crossed enemy lines but he was discovered, captured and hanged for his spying. His final words, which spoke eloquently of his devotion to the American cause, will live forever.
“I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country.” – Nathan Hale
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Colonial Era • Education • War, US Revolutionary. In addition, it is included in the Former U.S. Presidents: #01 George Washington series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1774.
Location. 41° 21.264′ N, 72° 5.627′ W. Marker is in New London, Connecticut, in New London County. Marker is at the intersection of Water Street and State Street, on the left when traveling north
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Revolutionary New London (here, next to this marker); Revolutionary War Privateering (here, next to this marker); Nathan Hale Schoolhouse (a few steps from this marker); New London Soldiers & Sailors Monument (within shouting distance of this marker); Whaling in New London (within shouting distance of this marker); Native Americans (within shouting distance of this marker); The Roots of the US Coast Guard (within shouting distance of this marker); The Atlantic Trade (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in New London.
More about this marker. The bottom left of the marker features an engraving of a Reward of Merit that was signed by Nathan Hale.
Also see . . . Captain Nathan Hale (1755 - 1776). Biography of Nathan Hale from the Connecticut Society of the Sons of the American Revolution website. (Submitted on October 14, 2011, by Bill Coughlin of Woodland Park, New Jersey.)
Photographed By Bill Coughlin, October 9, 2011
2. Markers in New London Plaza
Several markers are found at this location. The Nathan Hale marker is seen here on the right.
Photographed By Bill Coughlin, October 9, 2011
3. Nathan Hale Marker
The schoolhouse where Nathan taught while in New London can be seen behind the marker.
Photographed By Bill Coughlin, October 9, 2011
4. Nathan Hale Schoolhouse
Photographed By Bill Coughlin, October 9, 2011
5. Nathan Hale Statue
This statue of Nathan Hale is located a few miles west of the marker.
Credits. This page was last revised on May 6, 2023. It was originally submitted on October 14, 2011, by Bill Coughlin of Woodland Park, New Jersey. This page has been viewed 717 times since then and 15 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. submitted on October 14, 2011, by Bill Coughlin of Woodland Park, New Jersey.
