The Heartbeat of the Revolution: A Sit-Down with Governor Jonathan Trumbull
Historical Guest:
Governor Jonathan Trumbull
The only Colonial Governor to side with George Washington—and a leader who transformed Lebanon Green into a launchpad for liberty.
✍️ Blog Post Interview
Intro by Dan:
Welcome back to another powerful stop on our Travel in Time journey. Today, I stood on the windswept Lebanon Green, Connecticut’s own “Heartbeat of the Revolution.” I closed my eyes and imagined the clatter of horses, the murmurs of military strategy, and the weight of decisions that would shape a nation. Then, through the magic of history and imagination, I sat down with none other than Governor Jonathan Trumbull. The man whose sense of purpose helped shift the tides of revolution.
The Interview
Dan: Governor Trumbull, thank you for joining me. You’re remembered as the only Colonial Governor to support the Patriot cause. What made you take such a bold—and dangerous—stand?
Governor Trumbull:
Young man, I did not see it as bold. I saw it as right. The Crown’s hand had grown heavy. The people of Connecticut—good people—were straining under unfair taxes and the muzzle of tyranny. When others hesitated, I remembered our covenant with liberty. My conscience left me no choice but to stand with General Washington… even if it meant standing alone.
Dan: You turned this very green into a nerve center of the Revolution. What was Lebanon Green like back then?
Governor Trumbull:
Alive, sir. It pulsed with purpose. The War Office was always buzzing—dispatches arriving, horses being fed, French officers drawing maps with American hands. General Washington himself stood here. Supplies left this green and reached Valley Forge. Plans whispered under candlelight became bold moves on battlefields. This wasn’t just a pretty pasture… it was the spine of our resistance.
Dan: What leadership lesson do you hope modern people take from this place?
Governor Trumbull:
Purpose moves people. That’s what I’ve always said. Not titles. Not wealth. Purpose. When a man—or a nation—knows its “why,” it can weather any storm. I knew our cause was just. That conviction lit the path forward, even when the night was dark and the outcome uncertain.
Dan: Today’s youth face their own battles. Some say they don’t see leaders worth following. What would you say to them?
Governor Trumbull:
Then be the leader worth following. Waiting for perfect conditions or popular approval is a recipe for regret. Gather your facts, root your decisions in principle, and take action. Remember—the mightiest empire in the world thought we couldn’t win. But preparation… faith… and unity carried us through.
Dan: Was there ever a moment you doubted?
Governor Trumbull:
Many. Especially when friends—governors, merchants, even clergy—chose comfort over courage. But I also remembered Benjamin Franklin’s son, who stayed loyal to the Crown. That wound never healed between them. I resolved that I would not be a man my children would look upon with shame. I chose conviction over convenience.
Dan: Some people might say Lebanon Green is just grass and old buildings now. Why should we still care?
Governor Trumbull:
Because these stones still speak. These fields remember. The choices made here gave birth to a nation. If we forget that, we risk losing the very freedoms they secured. Visit the green, son. Stand in silence. Listen long enough, and you’ll hear the echo of resolve.
✨ Final Reflection (by Dan):
As I stepped away from Lebanon Green, the wind tugged gently at my coat. I could almost hear the sound of drums, the scuffle of boots, and the rustle of handwritten plans carried by candlelight. Governor Trumbull reminded me that leadership isn’t always about being loud or liked—it’s about being ready. About doing the work before the moment calls your name.
So next time you visit this quiet New England town, know this: you’re not just walking through grass. You’re walking through purpose.
Historical Bio: Governor Jonathan Trumbull
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Born: October 12, 1710 – Lebanon, CT
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Died: August 17, 1785 – Lebanon, CT
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Role: Governor of Connecticut Colony (1769–1776), then State of Connecticut (1776–1784)
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Distinction: The only colonial governor to support the American Revolution
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Legacy: Close advisor to George Washington; turned Lebanon Green into the epicenter of supply, strategy, and spirit
