We spent a glorious fall Sunday afternoon taking in the swirling leaves and munching on freshly made still warm cider donuts as we inhaled the intoxicating woodsmoke scented air at the Nathan Hale Homestead here in Connecticut. If you live within a two hour drive, it’s so worth the trip. Yankee Magazine voted the Coventry Regional Farmers Market the best farmers market in New England and now I know why. So many regional farmers, bee keepers, soap makers, bread bakers, musicians, artisans, and today…. a revolutionary war reenactment that was spectacular to watch. Next weekend is the last until next season, here’s a link for more information.
A little info about our State Hero Nathan Hale and the homestead, found on it’s website……
The Nathan Hale Homestead was the home of the family of State Hero, Nathan Hale. Constructed in 1776, the current house is the second dwelling built on the property. Nathan’s father, Richard Hale, was a prosperous livestock farmer and built the house for his large family. Ardent patriots, six of Richard’s eight sons served in the patriot army. One son, Capt.
Nathan Hale was caught and hanged as a spy at age 21 by the British in September of 1776. He is famous for his alleged last words, “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country.”
Following the American Revolution, three Hale sons died from wounds received in the war. Their widows and children moved to the family homestead, so that an average of 12-20 people lived in the house at any one time.
The Homestead is a pristine example of a Georgian-style home. Although sold out of the Hale family in the 1820s, the house has remained virtually intact. The house was first restored by George Dudley Seymour, who saved the house in the early 20th century. Recent paint analysis has resulted in the repainting of the house interior in historic colors. The house is furnished with Hale-family pieces and period antiques and is based on the family inventories. The house was deeded to Connecticut Landmarks in the 1940s. Much of the acreage associated with the Hale farm, is now the Nathan Hale State Forest.
Actually, he DOES look like a Doodle!
I can't tell you how much my hubby would enjoy this reenactment.
FANTASTIC PHOTOS!
What a great way to spend the day. Doodle is too cute.
By the way… the dog would be a Yankee Doodle, right? LOL!
Looks like a perfect way to spend a Sunday! I didn't realize how young Hale was! I do remember his famous words though!!!
Looks like a great day! How long of a drive is it from where we are? And I LOVE Doodle! What a great photo of him… love those dogs, such personality! Awesome photos of the place!
the donuts made my mouth water. 🙂 the horses are gorgeous (or i should say, your photos of them are!)
love that pup face. 🙂
Looks like a fun day !!! They lived so simple back then ! Makes you wonder . Have a great night
beautiful pictures, lovely day….
He DOES look like a Doodle! lol This looks like my kind of day. I love those uniforms and Poor Old Shine sounds pretty interesting too.
Loved seeing the pictures especially the reenactment. The Battle of Guilford Courthouse in NC was fought on my family farm…would love to see an reenactment there.
The home looks so pristene.
I get lots of good ideas for day trips from you! This looks fantastic!
A Yankee Doodle! I love it! (and him)
Living 20 minutes for Concord MA. I am use to Revolutionary War history. Isn't it amazing.
What a fun day! Love the pics. And I adore your new header!
I love reenactments. We've seen several in Vicksburg when Grant took the city during the Civil War. Also been to Sturbridge Village and Jockey Hollow in New Jersey where General Washington camped.
You sure live in a pretty part of the world Karen. The Homestead is a gorgeous home. Do I see 18 pane windows? How fabulous that the house has remained virtually intact. Amazing.
Sam
I can't even begin to tell you how cool the reenactment would be to attend! How fun to play a role and dress the part too! Loved getting to see this through your eyes… and Doodle? I dunno… doesn't quite fit…
Thanks for your encouragement on ma blog dearie dear… Fab shots and Doodle could live on the farm — just need the postage paid! Lol.
Loved Doodle!
And Isn't that the greatest place?
Next weekend they will host a Native American event.
So happy to see you, you look ageless! ((hugs))
LOVE this kindof place 🙂 What a great visit!!