Reflections on Nathan Hale’s Legacy: The History, Loss, and the Value of Life
Rob Taub
|
While walking up Third Avenue recently I passed a Starbucks on the Southwest corner of 66th Street. I suddenly recalled from my high school history that Nathan Hale was hanged there when it was the Dove Tavern. After searching in vain for a plaque I went to Wikipedia:
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 (at modern-day 66th Street and Third Avenue) and hanged. He was 21 years old.
No official records were kept of Hale’s final speech. It has traditionally been reported that his last words, either entirely or in part, were: “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country.”
For some reason I vividly remembered Hale’s exploits and final words, although I didn’t realize he was just 21 years old.
The recent passing of my nephew Oliver regularly reminds me how precious life is and the importance of remaining in contact with friends and loved ones.
Share: