Step Back in Time at the Lebanon Green: The Heartbeat of the Revolution
Looking for a place that truly transports you back in time? Imagine visiting a location where the air feels like the 1700s, steeped in history and pivotal moments of the American Revolution. Welcome to the beautiful Lebanon Green in Lebanon, Connecticut.
This isn’t just any town green; it’s described as one of the most consequential town greens in New England, and perhaps even the United States. Known as the “Heartbeat of the Revolution,” it played a crucial role in the colonial war effort. What makes it really unique is that it’s still used for agriculture today. The green itself is quite expansive, about a mile long.
Walking around the green, you’ll find places that were central to planning the fight for the United States’ independence. Overlooking the green is the original general store, which is now a red building that served as the War Office. This is where George Washington, Governor Trumbull, and the French met to strategize how to defeat the best military in the world, the English.
Speaking of Governor Trumbull, his mansion is also located on the Lebanon Green. Trumbull has a remarkable story; he was one of the only, if not the only, governor of the 13 colonies who stood up to the English and refused to go against George Washington. Even Benjamin Franklin’s son, the Governor of New Jersey, sided with England against the colonies. But CT Governor Trumbull stood firm and took a stance that arguably makes him the first governor of the new country, the United States. Amazingly, on a quick sidenote, the Lebanon Green was also home to another wartime CT governor, Governor William Buckingham, during the Civil War.
While the Alden Tavern is no longer standing – it’s now the site of a parking lot – there’s a memorable story associated with it. During the Revolutionary War, the lead English general from Rhode Island was captured and held prisoner on the Lebanon Green. While awaiting George Washington’s arrival to take the prisoner, the general reportedly threw his food of beans and corn on the floor, claiming he was too good for commoners’ food. The British General was subsequently horsewhipped by the Alden Tavern’s owner and patriot.
The Lebanon Green was also a site for much military activity. The French bivouacked there, and General Washington trained and inspected troops on the Green. It also served as a crucial supply group location, where supplies were gathered before being sent out to the war.
This historical site isn’t just a relic of the past; it’s still alive today. Reenactments where participants bivouac and then engage in simulated battles take place here. In the winter, the green is flooded for families to ice skate. You’ll also find a big, beautiful church, a library, a museum, and about 30 other historic buildings nearby.
Beyond the rich history, the Lebanon Green offers a powerful lesson, particularly in leadership: Preparation! The Revolutionary War was prepared for right here at the Lebanon Green. The concept that the harder you work, the luckier you get, attributed possibly to Jefferson or Sam Goldwyn, resonates with the preparation undertaken at this location. The definition of luck is when preparation meets opportunity – a significant leadership takeaway.
If you’re looking for a fascinating historical destination in Connecticut that offers a glimpse into the 1700s and the birth of a nation, the Lebanon Green is a must-visit. It’s a place filled with cool historical buildings, a Green, stories, leadership lessons, and a real-life tangible connection to the past.
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*Watch Dan’s YouTube video about this blog: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=py6nkNEW79U
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