History Short: Israel Putnam

At the beginning of the Revolutionary War, America had no navy!

As I reflect on America’s 250^th birthday this year – 🇺🇸 🇺🇸 🇺🇸 !!! – I can’t help but think about all the little-known stories from Revolutionary War times.

Here’s an interesting one for you:

Israel Putnam, a.k.a. “Old Put,” was born in Salem, Massachusetts in 1718. He was a successful farmer and tavern keeper who had already fought in the French and Indian War by the time of our country’s founding. When America’s Independence was first spooling up, Putnam lived in Brooklyn, Connecticut.

On April 20th 1775, a messenger galloped into the village with news that the British had fired on the American militia at Lexington, Massachusetts. The messenger also reported on the fighting at Concord. Without a second thought, Putnam mounted his horse to spread the alarm in neighboring towns, calling for every man who was fit and willing to come with him to provide aid of the militia.

Putnam rode through the night to Cambridge, Massachusetts to join the colonial soldiers there. By the time he reached his destination, he had ridden 100 miles in 18 hours! He never hesitated when his country needed him.

A monument to Putnam can be found in Brooklyn, Connecticut. It reads in part:

"Patriot, remember the heritages received from your forefathers and predecessors. Protect and perpetuate them for future generations of your countrymen."