George Washington and his army’s daring crossing of the Delaware River on Christmas Night in 1776 is perhaps one of the most famous events in American history. Children learn about the legendary crossing in grade school and certainly most Americans are familiar with Emanuel Gottlieb Leutze’s dramatic 1851 painting, Washington Crossing the Delaware. But while…
Author: murphym1776
The Battle of Princeton
Following a visit to the Washington Crossing Historic Park, we made our way towards the historic town of Princeton, New Jersey (trying to follow the path Washington and his army would have marched). Known for the American victory against British regulars on January 3, 1777, the town possesses an unmatched pastoral charm while preserving history…
The Battle of White Plains
New York has witnessed many exciting and memorable moments in United States history. During the American Revolution in particular, New York and the Hudson River (known then as the “North River”), greatly influenced the strategy of both the American and British leadership and the outcome of the war (in fact, General Washington believed the key…
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, New York
Washington Irving’s 1820 short story “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” holds a special place in mainstream American fiction and folklore. Irving managed to capture the quintessential 18th-century American experience while providing children and adults alike with a spooky local legend that has since grown to international fame (thanks in part to Walt Disney’s 1949 animated…
The Tragic Tale of Major John André
Calling the tale of British Major John André “tragic” may seem entirely too sympathetic for a man who was working with the traitorous Benedict Arnold to undermine the American war effort; however, even after his capture and execution, many American officers and soldiers were believed to have felt pity for the well-liked gentleman. Alexander Hamilton…
The Battle of Stonington
The War of 1812 (fought from June 1812 to February 1815) seems to get lost amongst the subjects covered in American history classes. Having occurred between the American Revolution and the U.S. Civil War, it almost makes sense; however, the war had long lasting effects on our nation. From the plains of Canada, naval battles…
An October Day in Salem, MA
The perfect way to spend a cool October day is in the historic and spooky town of Salem, Massachusetts! With hundreds of years of history, the town is best known for the witch trials that took place in the spring of 1692. Each autumn, the sleepy coastal town of Salem proudly embraces its history of…
Old Powder House (Somerville, MA)
One of the more obscure, yet ancient buildings in Massachusetts is the Old Powder House in Somerville. With over 300 years of history, it pre-dates the United States and played a central role in the preceding months of the American Revolution. While it doesn’t take long to experience, the historic stone structure is worth the…
Joseph Warren: Doctor & Patriot
Doctor Joseph Warren was one of the most brilliant, passionate and involved Patriots of revolutionary Boston; however, many Americans know very little about the man. In his time, he was a very well-known and loved physician, community leader and member of the Sons of Liberty. Today, we’ll explore his life, contributions to the revolutionary movement…
Jason Russell House (Arlington, MA)
April 19, 1775, is a date that will forever hold a place of supreme importance in American history and lore. The first shots on Lexington Green, the brave stand at Concord’s North Bridge and the redcoat’s bloody retreat towards Boston are all memories of that day; however, there is more to the story. In fact,…
Nathan Hale Schoolhouse (New London, CT)
The bright red colonial schoolhouse that once had famed American spy Nathan Hale as schoolteacher now sits on the city streets of New London. Although it has been moved from its original location, the Nathan Hale Schoolhouse (19 Atlantic St, New London, CT 06320) still proudly displays and teaches a unique Connecticut and Revolutionary War…
Longfellow’s Wayside Inn (Sudbury, MA)
On a beautiful September day we set off for the sleepy little town of Sudbury, Massachusetts to visit one of the most famous colonial taverns in America: Longfellow’s Wayside Inn. As one of the best preserved and recorded taverns (also known for its colonial libations) we were pretty excited to visit! History Longfellow’s Wayside Inn…
Artillery Company of Newport
When exploring historic Newport, be sure to visit the oldest military unit in the United States: The Artillery Company of Newport. Tucked amongst historic homes on beautiful Clarke Street, the company’s armory and museum is truly a local gem! Be sure you swing by their armory on a Saturday when they are open (the museum…
Webb-Deane-Stevens Museum
The Webb-Deane-Stevens Museum of Wethersfield sits in the largest historic district of Connecticut and is comprised of three historic homes from the 18th and 19th centuries. Owned and operated by the Colonial Dames of America in the State of Connecticut since 1919, the three-house museum offers a fun and informative tour that is filled with…
The Griswold Inn (Essex, CT)
The Griswold Inn is nestled near the coast of the Connecticut River in the charming seaport town of Essex, Connecticut (formerly the town of Saybrook). Voted one of the best bars in the state, it is known for its unique colonial and maritime ambiance, live entertainment and New England style menu. It is a must…