Considered a Connecticut state hero and icon of patriotism, Hale is best known for the quote, “I regret only that I have but one life to lose for my country.”
Hale was born here.
“This is the land where he grew up, and we’re telling the story of his family just before the American Revolutionary War,” said Anne Marie Charland, the site’s manager.
Nathan Jedrzyniak, one of the tour guides at the house, told News 12 the house is a place that tells the stories of early American patriots like Hale.
At age 14, Hale and his brother Enoch entered Yale College, graduating in 1774.
Hale was a teacher before becoming an Army captain.
“War breaks out, George Washington is putting on a play, and he needs someone to go to New York and tell him how many British troops there are and where they’re stationed,” Charland says.
Hale accepted the challenge, traveled to New York, and was captured.
“The British treated him badly and executed him the next day without trial. Today, the story of Nathan Hale is taught to elementary school children across the country,” Jedrzyniak said.
Starting in July, the homestead will have a flag park for heroes.
“Each flag carries his name in honor, and it’s really beautiful because it gives people a sense of community to come and enjoy their place,” Charland said.
The house is also home to the Coventry Farmers Market.
This market, held every Sunday, is one of the largest in the state.
