Nathan Hale House

Lauren Smida:

The Nathan Hale Homestead is a historical site intended to educate travelers about the American Revolution, and the influence and effect it had on the Hale family. The site is located in Coventry CT, and was built in 1776 by Nathan’s father, Richard Hale. The 37 acres of land contains a school, a barn, gardens for flowers and food, as well as several open fields.  The family started off with just enough money to start building, and eventually converted the useless dirt into a home for the history books.  The Hale’s influence during the American Revolution and determination to become independent sets this family apart from the rest during this time in our history.

The Nathan Hale Homestead’s intended narrative has to do with Nathan Hale’s death.  He died on his first spy mission, and was tricked into thinking John Andre was a friend, when in fact, he was an enemy.  John had been a British spy and killed Nathan after learning about his mission.  This manipulation and devastation paints a picture for travelers’ years later who come and visit the homestead to learn about how Nathan’s death further fueled the American Revolution.  The emotions had built up by the family and others supporting the war alongside the Hale’s. Years and years later, because of the of Nathan bravery and devastation, the tours and artifacts in the homestead portrays his home, family, and story in a positive light and as heroes for America.

The Nathan Hale Homestead represents many American identities, independence and freedom being the most distinctive.  The Hale family wanted independence from Great Britain.  As a result, their house was full of different forms of rebellion to ensure they have more freedom then intended by the British.  For example, the they grew their own tea in their gardens as a way to rebel taxed goods.  In order to gain independence and freedom, the Hale family put themselves in vulnerable positions.  Nathan’s bravery is another important American identity.  Without bravery, there would be no freedom or independence.  Lastly, they believed in educating all their children, including women.  Although unusual in this time, gender would not stop knowledge.  Along with several American identities, The Hale family also had many values.  Trading goods was extremely important.  In order to obtain these goods, Richard Hale made sure to build his house on the main trading road, thus having constant access to the travelers.  In addition to trading, status and showing off money was important.  The Hale family used their money and structure of their house as a way to rebel. However, the ways they showed off their money were all in practical ways. For example, rugs on the carpets to keep their feet warm, and several chairs in each room are some ways they showed off their wealth.  Secret passage ways and meeting rooms for clandestine information all link back to their ultimate goal of freedom and independence.

After visiting the Nathan Hale Homestead, I developed some questions. My first question was what role Nathan’s siblings played in the fight for independence. The homestead mostly talked about Richard and Nathan Hale, but did not discuss the other siblings’ roles.  My second question was what kind of discussions took place in the secret meetings. There was no record on site, but clearly those meeting held great importance.