The Other Nathan Hale - Captured at Hubbardton
Most Americans know the story of Nathan Hale who gave his ‘one life’ to his country.
Today’s subject also went by the name Nathan Hale.
Though the two were unrelated, this Nathan Hale’s story also ends tragically.
Nathan Hale
As a young man, Nathan Hale married and helped found the town of Rindge, New Hampshire.
Hale was a leader of this village, serving as sheriff as well as president of the town council.
Furthermore, Nathan became captain of his village’s small militia force.
Siege of Boston
When news of the Redcoat’s movement came to their attention, the minutemen of Rindge left home to fight.
Hale led these soldiers to the Battle of Lexington and Concord. Shortly thereafter, the whole lot of them were assumed into the Army of Observation (as the Patriots were called before the establishment of the Continental Army).
During this time, Nathan also led men in the Battle of Bunker Hill.
Ticonderoga
Through the ensuing years Hale was continuously promoted until he found himself as a Colonel at Fort Ticonderoga in the Summer of 1777.
As the British approached during the beginnings of the Saratoga Campaign, Nathan joined Arthur St. Clair’s retreat south.
Hale was in charge of the sick and wounded who made up the end of the retreating force when the British’s Advanced Guard caught up to them.
Capture
What followed was the Battle of Hubbardton.
Though this engagement is insignificant to the greater Revolutionary War, it was the first time blood was drawn during the Saratoga Campaign.
Unfortunately for Hale, he was among those captured during the battle.
Brought back to Canada, Nathan would eventually be released on parole with the condition that he could not fight until he was exchanged for another officer.
Back to Jail
Although he went home, Hale was never exchanged.
Instead, he was attacked by Major General Horatio Gates on seemingly baseless accusations that appear to have been political calculations against Philip Schuyler.
Either because of this, or because there were no other Colonels to trade, Nathan was forced to return to the British as a prisoner after two years.
After several months back in captivity, Hale fell ill and passed away in enemy hands.
Here are some other Founders with the same name as a more FAMOUS Founder:
The Other Charles Lee - Attorney General of the Adams Administration
The Other James Madison - President of the College of William and Mary
Want to learn more about the Battle of Hubbardton?
‘‘The Rear Guard Action That Saved America’ is the only full length study of this very small but interesting battle.
If you’d like a copy you can get one through the Amazon affiliate link below (you’ll support this site, but don’t worry, Amazon pays me while your price stays the same).
