How Did Nathan Hale Grow Up

In mid-September of 1776, Captain Nathan Hale would set off for Long Island, New York to debut his career in espionage. He would conduct a short four-day mission behind enemy lines, gather and reporting valuable intel to the Continental Army. The American patriot was nearly six feet tall in height, towering well above most men of his time, and boasted an athletic build along with unforgettable good looks. Dr. Eneas Munson, Hale’s mentor during college years, would remark: “His chest was broad; his muscles were form; his face wore a most benign expression; his complexion was roseate; his eyes were light blue and beamed with intelligence; his hair was soft and light brown in color, and his speech was rather low, sweet, and musical.” Hale stood out, but would nonetheless attempt to disguise himself amongst British soldiers and Tories. And Munson would continue, “Why, all the girls in New Haven fell in love with him, and wept tears of real sorrow when they heard of his sad fate.” As redcoats
There was a possibility that Nathan was first identified by his Tory cousin, Samuel Hale. Ultimately, however, it was Rogers who would catch America’s first spy. Rogers gained Hale’s trust with a simple lie, stating to be “upon the business of spying out of the inclination of the people and motion of the British troops.” Afterwards, he invited Hale for dinner in his own quarters. They would talk as friends until redcoats had the house surrounded and arrest the spy. But when finally brought to General Howe in the British camps, Hale “at once declared his name, his rank in the American army, and his object in coming within the British line,” Hull reported. “[He] frankly acknowledged his rank and his purpose as a spy.” Hale accepted that he was going to be hanged the next morning at 11:00 AM, September 22,