In celebration of America: the story of our spy on the inside, that’s right, #Hercules Mulligan!
#whotellsyourstory
1.usa.gov/296cnrH
#Hercules was born in Ireland in 1740. He and his family immigrated to New York when he was about 6 years old.
1774: #Hercules opened a clothing emporium catering to wealthy British businessmen & high-ranking military officers.
#Hercules married niece of an Admiral in Royal Navy, but was also running w the Sons of Liberty- secret society protecting colonist’s rights
1773: #Hercules opened his doors to student named Alexander #Hamilton who was completing his studies @ King’s College (now @Columbia).
#Hamilton developed his pro-Patriot views from a variety of sources, including #Hercules & New Jersey Governor William Livingston.
1775: #RevolutionaryWar begins. After Washington was defeated @ Long Island #Hercules tried to leave New York but was stopped & dragged back
When Gen. Washington mentioned to #Hamilton that he was looking for a spy in #NYC, Hamilton recommended his friend #Hercules Mulligan.
#Hercules would ask officers seeking repairs when they needed them done, if enough gave the same date, he could surmise when they’d deploy.
#Hercules would dispatch his slave, Cato, to Washington’s HQ in New Jersey to share information on the redeployment of a particular unit.
Twice #Hercules was able to solicit info from British officers about ambushes. He & Cato were able to pass along info & save Washington.
After the war #Hercules feared tarring & feathering or some other revenge for appearing too close w British, despite his true loyalties.
Washington visited #Hercules after “Evacuation Day” parade easing any doubts as to which side Hercules had been on.
While President, Washington updated his wardrobe through #Hercules who changed sign outside his shop to say: “Clothier to Genl. Washington.”
#Hercules & #Hamilton became founding members of NY Manumission Society, an early organization founded to promote abolition of slavery.
#Hercules died @ 85 & is buried @ Trinity Church, next to his friend Alexander Hamilton
#whotellsyourstory
#HISTINT
1.usa.gov/296cnrH
Interested in learning more about Revolutionary War Spies? Check out Intelligence in War of Independence:
1.usa.gov/297Qm7o
#HISTINT
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