Execution of Nathan Hale, 1776
Entitled: Memories of the Union, execution of Nathan Hale on the site of east Broadway, corner of Market Street, New York. Nathan Hale (June 6, 1755 - September 22, 1776) was an American soldier and spy for the Continental Army. Hale volunteered to go behind enemy lines and report on British troop movements, an act of espionage that was punishable by death. Major Robert Rogers of the Queen's Rangers saw Hale in a tavern and recognized him despite his disguise. After luring Hale into betraying himself by pretending to be a patriot himself, Rogers and his Rangers apprehended Hale. General William Howe questioned Hale, physical evidence was found on him and Rogers provided information about the case. On the morning of September 22, 1776, Hale was marched along Post Road to the Park of Artillery, which was next to a public house called the Dove Tavern (66th Street and Third Avenue), and hanged. He was 21 years old. His last words before being hanged were purported to be I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country. Illustration appeared in Harper's Weekly, November 24, 1860
