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Home , Abraham Woodhull, Battle of White Plains, Benjamin Tallmadge, Caleb Brewster, Charles Scott (governor), Culper Ring

Concealed in the Shadows; Breaking Principles: ’s Hidden Army that Won America’s Freedom

Presented by:

Gia Gupta, Karina Gupta and Jiwoo Lee

Junior Group Performance Process Paper Word Count: 500

On our English teacher’s wall is a poster of with a quote that reads, “The harder the conflict, the greater the triumph.” From the first day we looked at the quote, we wondered how difficult was the conflict George Washington endured to liberate the ? We asked our teacher if she thought George

Washington used unconventional methods, to help him triumph over tyranny. Our teacher's response became the spark that ignited our passion, “Oh you mean the Culper Spies. That is just a myth.” Perplexed by the dismissive answer, we began seeking out the truth about the conflict George Washington encountered and what he utilized to break the barrier of a despotic ruler and secure the “blessing of liberty to ourselves and posterity.”

In order to understand the conflict George Washington faced to break through the tyrannical hold of

Great Britain, we started our research at George Washington’s Digital Library. The articles and primary sources available became the founding blocks of our thesis and helped us understand the well- organized hidden army that used their secret weapon of intelligence to take the upper hand and win the war of independence. We interviewed historians like Mr. Taylor Stoermer, professor at Johns Hopkins University and former Chief Historian of Colonial Williamsburg, to why the spies broke barriers. C-SPAN’s Mr. Damien

Cregeau about the employment of methods used by the ring; and an interview with C.I. A. Operations

Officer, Ken Daigler helped us understand the legacy of Culper Spy Ring.

We poured over George Washington’s “Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior,” his Gentlemanly Rules of War, as well as scrutinized correspondence provided by the National Archives between George Washington and the Culper Spy members giving us a conclusive comprehension of how spies removed their impediments.

Wanting to capture the drama and intrigue associated with the Culper Spy Ring, we felt a performance allowed us to demonstrate how General Washington’s leadership facilitated a concealed group of men that obtained victory by gathering intelligence. We were able to gather traditional Revolutionary costumes from a local museum, the Indian King Tavern, and use them to further represent the “under-trained, under-staffed, under-equipped, and under-funded” army that prevailed. (“George Washington, Spymaster”)

Ultimately, the Culper Spy Ring relates to the theme in a myriad of ways. In the most practical sense, spies broke across enemy lines that allowed General Washington to lead his army to victory. In a more delicate

way, the sentiments in the “Declaration of Independence” embodies how the Culper Spy Ring conveys the theme of “Breaking Barriers.” The spies were willing to sacrifice their “lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor” to procure liberty. They surmounted obstructions with the idea of patriotism and their various methods utilized including misinformation, invisible , dead drops, and coded letters to break from Britain and set forth the practices of modern-day intelligence operations. The truth is self-evident when British Major George

Beckwith declared, “Washington did not really outfight the British; he simply out-spied us.”

Annotated Primary Sources

Alexander . Letter to Marquis de Lafayette, "From to Marquis de Lafayette, [21 July 1780]," July 21, 1780. Accessed April 12, 2020. https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Hamilton/01-02-02-0775.

In Alexander Hamilton's correspondence with Marquis de Lafayette, it provides attestation that the Culper Spy Ring and other espionage operations had given intelligence that the British were planning an attack on the French fleets at Newport, . Hamilton writes, "We have just received advice from New through different channels that the enemy are making an embarkation with which they menace the French fleet and army. Fifty transports are said to have gone up the Sound to take in troops and proceed directly to Rhode Island." This conveys how the Culper Spy Ring surmounted the barrier of British rule by assisting in discovering intelligence. The letter is a clear symbol of one of the Culper Spy Ring's most significant discoveries with the help of other intelligence operations. In conclusion, this letter gave us primary source evidence of the actions that saved the French from probable defeat, which could have subsequently been the breaking point for the Patriots.

Arnold, Benedict. Letter, "To George Washington from , 25 September 1780," September 25, 1780. https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/99-01-02-03372.

Benedict Arnold admits his betrayal to Washington through his heartfelt letter that soon asks the General for a substantial favor. After saw Benedict Arnold and John André as traitors, Arnold had fled from his home and belongings and asks that his baggage gets sent to him in exchange with money. He asks for nothing for himself as he has already realized his wrongdoings, but instead asks for protection of his wife. He pleads for his wife, Ms. Arnold, to be sent back to , where she is happy and accompanied by her friends. Benedict Arnold explains how his heart was morally conscious and loyal to the American cause, although his actions did not follow upon it. He adds that he never acted to his "principle of love to my country" due to the imbalance in power he viewed between the battling sides. As he believed that the British would be triumphant in the war, he joined the British wanting to be on the victorious side of history, which soon did not follow the way he had planned.

———. Letter to John André, "Benedict Arnold Letter to John André, July 15, 1780," July 15, 1780. Accessed February 13, 2020. https://clements.umich.edu/exhibit/spy-letters-of-the-american-revolution/gallery-of- letters/arnold-andre-letter-1780-07-15/.

This letter from Benedict Arnold to John André is mostly a financial correspondence. It is the start of Arnold's betrayal. He is asking for 20,000 pounds sterling to compromise West Point. Arnold is about to leave to travel to West Point and is just confirming that the payments are agreed and therefore set in stone. This is another piece of research showing the treason of Benedict Arnold and the espionage of John André. In the Culper Spy Ring, this related because Arnold's treason was one of the most influential discoveries of the Culper Spy Ring and had a tremendous impact on the emotional state of the Culper Spy Ring. After Arnold defected to the British, his presence in City worried , one of the spies, so much that he altogether quit his job as a spy. He quit his correspondence. He was so frightful due to the fact that Arnold was on the hunt for American spies because if he

succeeded in finding them, he would have them hanged. In addition to enhancing our group's knowledge on his treason, this primary source letter also provided explicit details of the financial transactions occurring between Benedict Arnold and the British crown. This helped us understand the reason why Arnold would risk his life and reputation for the British cause. By reading this source, we also realized Arnold committed treason for money and recognition. The Culper Spy Ring was able to break the barrier of the British's oppressive rule, and one way they could do that was by discovering Arnold's great plan of betrayal against the British.

Clinton, Henry. Letter to , "August 10, 1777: Henry Clinton Letter to John Burgoyne," August 10, 1777. Henry Clinton Papers.

This letter used a very innovative idea to keep the secret message of espionage hidden. This process took use of a mask. The mask was put over the letter, and the message would reveal through it. This was just one of the many techniques the spies used. These techniques were able to help soothe the fear that the spies experienced. Our group was able to use this letter to learn some of the techniques the spies used and how they were able to stay secret but still go behind enemy lines.

Culper, Samuel. Letter to John Bolton, "II. Samuel Culper to John Bolton, 15 August," August 15, 1779. Accessed March 21, 2020. https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/03-22-02-0039-0002.

"Every [letter]2 is opened at the entrance of New-York—and every man is searched that for the future every letter must be written with the Ink received.3 They have some knowledge of the rout our letters take. I judge it was mentioned in the letter taken,4 or they would not be so vigilant," otherwise known as Samuel Culper writes to John Bolton which is Benjamin Tallmadge's alias. This letter written in August of 1779 provides us with beneficial information concerning the barriers that the Culper Spy Ring had to break through and Abraham Woodhull's position in after staying away from the city. In the quote stated above it briefs on the knowledge that the British have on the intelligence operations conveying almost positively the ramifications of Benjamin Tallmadge's letters being stolen. This depicts that the Culper Spy Ring had to surmount the barrier of the British's knowledge of their works to sufficiently operate. Moreover, after Abraham Woodhull left New York his position was soon altered within the espionage ring. He now resided in Long Island and based on the letter would travel to New York occasionally. The Editorial Note provided by National Archives states that, "Woodhull largely confined himself to reports on Long Island and issues involved in conveyance of Townsend's reports." Anna Strong or possibly Agent 355 was also referred to in the letter. Woodhull wrote, "I intend to visit New-York before long and think by the assistance of a lady of my acquaintance,5 shall be able to outwit them all." In brief, this letter provided us with a new perspective on the barriers the members of the spy ring had to overcome, the primary introduction of Anna Strong, and Abraham Woodhull's position after Robert Townsend was recruited.

Esnauts And Rapilly. Map of the part of where the combined army of & the United States of America captured the English Army commanded by Lord Cornwallis on October 19. , with the plan of the attack on York-town & Glocester. [Paris, Esnauts and Rapilly?, 1781] Map. https://www.loc.gov/item/gm71002364/.

Using this map, Washington was able to plan the attack on Cornwallis in Yorktown. This map states how the French and the Americans were planning to ambush Cornwallis and surround him, leaving him no place to escape. In our backdrop of our play, we were able to incorporate this map by hanging it up for Washington's tent. In our research, we learned how in Washington's camp, he had a sleeping quarters, a desk, and maps hung all around. Using this information, we decided to also hang maps for the background of Washington's camp.

Estaing, Charles-Hector Théodat Comte d'. Letter to George Washington, "To George Washington from Vice Admiral d'Estaing, 5 September 1778," September 5, 1778. Accessed September 29, 2019. https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/03-16-02-0556.

Vice Admiral D'Estaing's letter to General Washington taught us that in September of 1778, Vice Admiral d'Estaing was expecting a British attack, as his squadron was getting more supplies and resupplying. D'Estaing believed that espionage should play a primary part in getting reports about British intentions, and he was willing to pay the costs of the spies as well. He wanted George Washington to get information on the plans of the British through spies. This letter gave us more information on the genesis of the Culper Spy Ring. As we do our project, we want to do research on the before, during, and after, of the development of the Spy Ring. This letter depicts one of the primary events or requests that lead to the introduction/idea of the ring. This letter was the guiding point to help us find other letter from members of the espionage that occurred, and people who impacted it so we could further understand how it was created.

Faden, William. Plan of the Operations of General Washington, against the Kings Troops in , from the 26th. of December, 1776, to the 3d. January 1777. Map. , 1777. Accessed February 28, 2020. https://www.loc.gov/resource/g3811s.ar126900/?r=0.02,0.303,1.206,0.697,0.

William Faden's map was utilized for our backdrop in George Washington's camp to enhance the authenticity of it. According to an article we previously read, George Washington would have had maps in his tent. This map we utilized "shows area from Newtown, to Kingston, New Jersey with routes of British and American forces." Moreover, according to a Mount Vernon article the map portrayed the plans for General Washington at the . In brief, this map was essential to the development of our backdrop because it was from the Revolutionary War and specifically during the time period of the Culper Spy Ring's works.

Hinncks, John. Sketch of West Point. 1783. Illustration. Accessed February 24, 2020. https://www.loc.gov/item/gm71005426/.

The map of West Point provided in the sketch by John Hinncks provided us with crucial knowledge regarding the importance of West Point. This primary source gave us a visual depiction of West Point and the including the fortifications. Due to the Patriots’ control over West Point, it prevented the British from controlling the Hudson River. If the British had control over the Hudson River, they could split the colonies into two. In addition, it was also essential to the transportation of supplies to other Patriots. West Point which is seen within the sketch was essentially paramount to the success of the Patriots’ mission - procuring liberty.

Howe, William. Letter to John Burgoyne, "July 17, 1777: William Howe Letter to John Burgoyne," July 1777. Henry Clinton Papers.

Although this was a British letter, this letter shows the different secret methods and techniques the spies used to keep their messages covert. Letters were inserted into the hollow quills of large feathers, sewn into buttons, and stuck into small silver balls. For this letter, it was cut into two long strips of paper containing messages on both pieces. Then, these two pieces of paper were put into the quill of a . The idea seems to have been that, if in danger, a courier could get rid of the papers more easily. This was just one of the man techniques used and without these methods the spies would not be able to win the war. They had to stay safe, and this was the only way.

Hull, William. Letter, "From the memoirs of (of the ), quoting British Captain , who was present at the hanging and who spoke to Hull under a flag of truce the next day: September 23, 1776," September 1776.

Captain William Hull retells and quotes British Captain John Montresor who was in attendance at the hanging of . Hull writes about Montresor's description of Hale's calm and gentle morale before his death. Before being summoned for his public hanging, he requested for writing materials to write for his loved ones. Receiving the provided supplies, he wrote to his mother and his brother officer. As his time came, the memorable words that struck the crowd was "I only regret that, I have but one life to lose for my country." His legacy was made through words that truly described his spirit of patriotism.

The Independent Chronicle (, MA), May 17, 1781. Accessed March 20, 2020. https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=mdp.39015011606566&view=1up&seq=366.

This article from the newspaper the Independent Chronicle which was for the Boston Chronicle gave us a new perspective on both Nathan Hale and Major John André's death. With regard to John André, the article briefs that despite his actions the Americans treated him as a man and a soldier. John André was given "respect and compassion towards him in every countenance." Hale was "without the aid of a single countenance around him that spoke either respect or compassion," and was in turn viewed as a traitor. The article reflects on the differences on these two individuals’ deaths and their decisions made prior to their demise. It states, "André earnestly wished the mode of his death might have been more like

a soldier; but consoled himself by observing, that in either way it would be "but a moment's pang." Hale, calm and collected, took no notice of either of those circumstances." While this statement not only conveys the differences of both men, it also portrays how Nathan Hale surmounted the barrier of morality by both his intelligence operations and moments before his death. He had additionally broken through the barrier of trepidation along with the ordinary individuals that made up the Culper Spy Ring by gathering intelligence and before his death expressed by the previous quote. We received conflicting information upon synthesizing both this article and Captain William Hull's memoir with reference to Nathan Hale's final words which are stated in our play. The article states that "Hale had received no such respects, and had none to return; but just before he expired, said, aloud, 'I am so satisfied with the cause in which I have engaged, that my only regret is that I have not more lives than one to offer in its service.'" In brief, this newspaper article provides a greater insight on the differences of two key figures in the development of the Culper Spy Ring—Nathan Hale and Major John André's death for espionage against both Britain and America.

Jay, John. Letter to George Washington, "To George Washington from John Jay, 19 November 1778," November 19, 1778.

John Jay's letter addressed to George Washington instituted the use of the invisible ink for the Culper Spy Ring. In the letter it states, "This will be delivered by my Brother, who will communicate & explain to your Excellency a mode of Correspondence, which may be of use, provided proper agents can be obtained." This statement portrays that John Jay's brother James Jay developed the invisible ink and used it "in correspondence with his brother." James Jay was both a scientist and physician who never revealed the recipe of the invisible ink and it was in short supply. When writing letters, the invisible ink was used on white paper, and the recipient would apply a substance to read it. George Washington referred to it as sympathetic stain, but when in correspondence with James Jay, he referred to it as "medicine." John Jay experienced the efficiency of the ink "by a three Years Trial." In correspondence with George Washington, John Jay decides to remain silent on the topic.

Jefferson, Thomas. "The Declaration of Independence." National Archives. https://www.archives.gov/founding- docs/declaration-transcript.

The Declaration of Independence showed to our group the barrier the spies broke. It represented what these spies were doing it all for. When reading this document, we were able to learn how strong the Patriots were willing to fight and what they were willing to do. In our case, it was spying. They were willing to break the code of gentleman and risk their lives to liberate America. The Declaration of Independence states, "When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation." According to this, the people of America knew it was necessary to split from the British and one of the ways they were able to do that was with espionage. The Patriots wanted to be the United States of America and it shows the why of spying. The people wanted freedom and Washington and army spies were willing to do anything for freedom.

Lafayette, Marquis de. Testimonial to James Armistead Lafayette, testimonial, "Lafayette's Testimonial to James Armistead Lafayette," November 21, 1784. Accessed November 22, 2019. http://ington/the- revolutionary-war/spying-and-espionage/american-spies-of-the-revolution/lafayettes-testimonial-to- james-armistead-lafayett.

Marquis de Lafayette's testimonial proved James Armistead Lafayette's significant works that contributed to the Culper spy ring at the Battle of Yorktown. His successes of collecting and delivering intelligence from the British impacted the victory of the Americans is portrayed within the testimonial. His service aided the Patriots in the revolution, and Lafayette is "entitled to every reward his situation can admit of." As James Armistead worked as a and a slave he portrayed different characters for each side, which the testimonial addresses briefly when talking about "his intelligences from the enemy's camp." He provides an excellent example of breaking barriers by having obstacles of slavery and dangerous works of spies, he overcame them for the greater will to fight for America's freedom and liberty.

Letter, "Enclosure: Samuel Culper to Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 22 January 1779," n.d. https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/03-19-02-0092-0002#GEWN-03-19-02-0092- 0002-fn-0003.

The letter is exchanged from Samuel Culper, Abraham Woodhull to Sir, Benjamin Tallmadge. Through the writing of Woodhull, it is shown of his high respect for Tallmadge. He adds by saying how he is flattered by the praises of Tallmadge to his intelligence previously. Culper continues his works by informing the plans and movements of the British troops. In addition, he includes by how the Cork fleet were supplied with 28 ships, and soon separated by harsh weather of winds. The letter is concluded by how they waited for the King's speech and how it should be said formal and favorable.

Letter, "From George Washington to Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 13 June 1779," n.d. Accessed November 22, 2019. https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/03-21-02-0140.

This letter from Benjamin Tallmadge to George Washington portrays that Abraham Woodhull is getting paid, and now has a successor. His successor Robert Townsend had expectations from George Washington; this included conveying information briskly. The letter also introduced another man named George Higday, who stands well with the enemy, but also tells intelligence to George Washington on the west side of the North river, and will connect him with people in county. He also includes information about Abraham Woodhull's report of 8000 men up the river, and how he wishes that Robert Townsend will not guess on these numbers. This shows George Washington's apparent first knowledge of Abraham Woodhull's successor - Robert Townsend. It also shows his expectations from him such as a faster conveyance of information, and accurate accounts of the count of British men.

Letter, "From George Washington to Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 27 June 1779," June 1779. https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/03-21-02-0231.

George Washington begins his letter to Benjamin Tallmadge by sending his ten guineas to reward Samuel Culper, Abraham Woodhull. He adds by reminding him the cautiousness it takes and is needed for the letters to be exchanged, and how the recent letter is becoming delayed. He includes that the transportation of communication through letters should be speed the process than the way it is. They are introduced a new agent with abbreviation of H-- due to hiding the identity of the spy. It was later found that he was George Higday. George Washington mentions that he does not know the identity and name of this agent, and how it should stay this way for the sake of his safety and so that works can be carried through in secrecy. Washington tells Tallmadge in his letter to use him wisely and well beneficially emphasizing how he must be hidden in identity so that he will be utilized for a longer time. This letter informs us about how Washington himself did not know the identity of the spies that contributed to the spy ring, but just their alias and works to only achieve the goal of winning the . To gain secrecy and safety for the agents, he chose not to be revealed the identity of spies, so that the British will never find out and that they will never get caught.

Letter, "To George Washington from Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 8 January 1779," January 8, 1779. https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/03-18-02-0665.

Through this letter, Benjamin updates Washington on the reports of the British troops led by General Erkstine. He informs by saying that this fleet is considerable in size, and is moving eastward. Trough intelligence, it was seen that within a day, 30 transports were made off Oysterbay, through 2 ships and 2 brigs. The troops settled in Huntington Harbor for the night for rest. Tallmadge believes that the British troops are backed up by forage fleet from Newport, but is not positive on his assumption. He concluded by reporting how No.5 agent has not yet returned from his task, which concerns him to thinking that he might have been caught or issued by the British. He adds by wishing him no accidents and safety.

Mount Vernon. Map. In Culper Spy Ring Code. https://www.mountvernon.org/education/primary-sources- 2/article/culper-spy-ring-code/.

This code identifies what the numbers the spies used actually meant. The code was completely based on the sequence of numbers and it is how the spies were able to keep what they figured out a secret. The code shows how the number one actually meant "a" and the number two meant the word "an." Only members of the Culper Spy Ring had this code, and it was created by Benjamin Tallmadge. This helps us understand more letters and documents written by the spies. The spy's code shows how the spies were very advanced for their time, and one of the primary developments of the spy ring.

Paine, Thomas. The American Crisis. , n.d. Accessed February 1, 2020. http://www.loc.gov/teachers/classroommaterials/presentationsandactivities/presentations/timeline/amrev /north/paine.html.

Thomas Paine's "The American Crisis," genuinely encompasses the reasoning to why the spies of the Culper Spy Ring were willing to risk their lives. "The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of his country but he that stands it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman, " in the words of Paine. "The American Crisis" conveys what empowered the spies and the patriotism that they had. Our group also included the pamphlet in our play as Benjamin Tallmadge was trying to convince Abraham Woodhull to join the espionage ring. The quote that was given before is what we utilized for the reasoning above. "The Crisis" shows the motivation of the spies to break obstructions of risking their lives, trepidation, and morality which is seen also by the quote, "yet we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph."

Ritchie, Alexander Hay. Last Words of Captain Nathan Hale…. 1858. Illustration. Accessed January 31, 2020. https://artgallery.yale.edu/collections/objects/44653.

Alexander Hay Ritchie's painting engraving conveying moments before Nathan Hale was hung gives us cardinal information to depict his hanging in a play. Due to Nathan Hale's connection with Benjamin Tallmadge along with the significant barrier he broke, our group is including a brief scene of Nathan Hale's hanging. The stipple engraving of Nathan Hale along with his final words completed in 1858 provides our group with a within close range of idea of the clothes he wore, where he was hung, and who was surrounding him. In our interpretation of the engraving, Nathan Hale is wearing a white long sleeve shirt, a blue neck ribbon along with blue pants, white long songs, black shoes, and a blue ribbon for his hair. Furthermore, he is surrounded by several British officers in which case one is on a ladder with a rope and presumably citizens in dismay. His hands are tied behind his back with rope and it can be determined that he is going to be hung from a tree. In brief, this engraving provides our group with preeminent information with regard to the portrayal of Nathan Hale's hanging that availed us in how to show how Nathan Hale broke barriers by overcoming trepidation and morality along with the members of the Culper Spy Ring.

Sackett, Nathaniel. Letter to George Washington, "To George Washington from Nathaniel Sackett, 7 April 1777," April 7, 1777. Accessed December 12, 2019. https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/03-09-02-0081.

Nathaniel Sackett's letter to George Washington's addresses Washington's request to manage intelligence operations in the New York area. Nathaniel Sackett briefs that he went to New York, and met gentleman although they were only to open his espionage to William Duer along with an oath of secrecy. He mentions a man who he is well educated and a good surveyor to gather intelligence. According to Sackett, "on his way to the City his Bussiness was to Get what Inteligance he could[,] hire a Room in the City and Get a Licence to carry on a Secret trade for Poltry to ena⟨ble⟩ him to convey me Inteligance once or Twice a week he has not yet Return'd neither have I heard from him Since, I w⟨ould⟩ Inclose your Excellancy the Copy of the Oath he Took before he we⟨nt⟩ off but think it Imprudent therefore

must Beg to be Execu⟨sed⟩ untill a Personal Interview—emediately on my Return I for⟨tunate⟩ly Procured Two other Gentlemen of well known attachment to our Cause who are honest Sencible and Intrieuging, and have undertaken to go in to the Enemy and Seat them selves Down in their Camps." In this statement, he depicts the concise directions he gave the man and the reasoning for the other two men he recruited. These two men were mentioned as "Brunswick" and the "Amboy One." Sackett also relays on a woman "the wife of a man" who is to also gather intelligence. Nathaniel Sackett's letter is salient to the development of our project as it introduces Sackett as a paramount member in the espionage during the Revolutionary War. Questions such as if the members that Sackett describes in his letter were in the guided us in the growth of our project.

Scott, Charles. Letter to George Washington, "To George Washington from Brigadier General , 10 September 1778," September 10, 1778. Accessed September 29, 2019. https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/03-16-02-0608.

General Charles Scott's letter addressed to General Washington taught us that General Washington had asked General Charles Scott to prepare spies to go gather intelligence on British intentions, and their ship movements, in response to Vice Admiral d'Estaing's request. This letter was the second primary source we analyzed, and it corresponds to the letter written from the Vice Admiral to George Washington. The information that General Scott relayed, assisted our group with the development of our project as it gave us more information on the establishment of the Culper Spy Ring, and the espionage that took place before its existence. Names of previous leaders, spymasters, or people with influence were mentioned within the letter. This included Captain Leavenworth, Butler Parker and Grayham who gathered intelligence or were leaders within the previous espionage. In addition, this primary source introduces a salient person to the introduction of the Culper Spy Ring, General Charles Scott, the author of this letter.

———. Letter to George Washington, "To George Washington from Brigadier General Charles Scott, 29 October 1778," October 29, 1778. Accessed September 29, 2019. https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/03-17-02-0654.

General Charles Scott's letter informs us that the first report of the then newly formed Culper Spy Ring was successful in providing circumstantial information on British naval movements. We learned about where some of the spy ring members were from, and how one of the spies could not relay information to General Scott. The spies lived in areas such as Long Island and both sides of the North river. We learned that the first information gathered from the Culper Spy Ring was beneficial to the success of the Patriots, such as the loyalists' movement. General Scott's letter helps us with the development of our project as we learned on of the spy network's different impacts upon the American Revolution, and the improvement of their espionage as time progressed.

———. Letter to George Washington, "To George Washington from Brigadier General Charles Scott, 9 November 1778," November 9, 1778.

General Charles Scott's correspondence to George Washington depicts that the leaders of the Culper Spy Ring were not aware of the members identities. General Scott remarks, "the letter which I sent You by Cornet Wills was from Sir John Bolton the person whom Majr Talmadge Recommended To Your Excellency Some time ago. there will be no Dainger of his being discoverd. I do not know his Propper name my self, for Nither of those are." General Scott believes that John Bolton and Benjamin Tallmadge were different people, but while analyzing sundry sources, it renders that Major Tallmadge's code name was John Bolton. This is corroboration of another one of the Culper Spy Ring's attempts to keep their ring secret by not revealing names to leaders of the espionage ring. The ring members were anxious about the British discovering their true identities, and they would be appointed with treason. George Washington was aware of the dangers of spying and also did not know the members of the spy ring as well.

Tallmadge, Benjamin. Letter to George Washington, "From Major Benjamin Tallmadge to George Washington, 28–30 July 1779," July 28, 1779. Accessed January 20, 2020. https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/03-21-02-0576-0001.

Through July 28th to July 30th, 1779, Benjamin Tallmadge wrote a letter to George Washington which explains the current happenings in the Culper Spy Ring. In this letter, Tallmadge explains how he has received the "invisible ink." This letter was also one of the first letters to use the new Culper code. Washington had just received the Culper Code Book and it was a very important aspect of the spy ring. Without this book, the spies would not have been able to stop British suspicions. For example, before the book was created, the British had intercepted one of the letters from Washington. in this letter, Washington had used George Higday's name explicitly. Then, eleven days after, Higday was arrested at his own home. Washington knew this was too close of a call and saw the dangers of using real names in correspondence. This led to the creation of the Culper Code Book. By using this code, the spies were untraceable and safe from all danger. Moving on, this letter also mentions instructions on how to read a certain letter that includes information about how to use invisible ink. The invisible ink, also known as, sympathetic stain was created by James Jay. This stain added an added level of security for the spies. Robert Townsend was especially relieved when he received his invisible ink as he would be less likely to ever be caught by the British. This letter was one of the first letters to be written in the code and from here till the end, all the letters would have more secrecy.

Tallmadge, Benjamin. Letter to George Washington, "To George Washington from Benjamin Tallmadge, 11 October 1780," October 11, 1780. Accessed April 3, 2020. https://rotunda.upress.virginia.edu/founders/default.xqy?keys=FOEA-print-01-01-02-3540.

In Benjamin Tallmadge's correspondence to George Washington it conveys a paramount event within the Culper Spy Ring only a few months after one of the espionage ring's biggest feats by discovering the planned British attack on the French fleet at Newport, Rhode Island. This event was that the infamous Benedict Arnold had suspected a spy ring was operating in Long Island and New York; he subsequently

was apprehending any individuals that were supposedly patriot spies. Benjamin Tallmadge writes however to Washington that, "The Conduct of Arnold, since his arrival at N.Y. has been such, that although he knows not a single Link in the Chain of my Correspondence..." Despite Major Tallmadge conveying that Benedict Arnold was not aware of the Culper Spy Ring's intelligence gathering, the individuals in the spy ring were "too apprehensive of Danger, to give their immediate usual intelligence." This correspondence brought to light an overlooked event in the Culper Spy Ring's history which assisted in the development of trepidation among the spies. The fear of danger, and being caught by the British became a larger concern after Benedict Arnold's ventures to find the source of intelligence within the city. Concisely, Benjamin Tallmadge's letter addressed to George Washington in mid-October of 1780 portrays Benedict Arnold's knowledge of American intelligence and how the barrier of fear was built among the spies in certain situations such as this one.

———. Letter to George Washington, "To George Washington from Benjamin Tallmadge, 22 July 1780," July 22, 1780. Accessed March 31, 2020. https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/99-01-02- 02628.

Benjamin Tallmadge's brief correspondence to George Washington in late July of 1780 is paramount for the development of our understanding of one of the biggest feats of the Culper Spy Ring. An assisting French fleet that was holding over 6000 troops and the supplies for Washington's unarmed men was approaching Newport, Rhode Island, but the British were knowledgeable of this plan. The Culper Spy Ring received intelligence concerning the British attack and reported it to General Washington allowing him to spread misinformation about an attack from him in New York. This consequently led the British to call of the attack saving the French from a probable defeat which could have decimated the Franco- American alliance. Benjamin Tallmadge writes to Washington about the intelligence of the British attack. "I have this moment recd the enclosed from the Cu's which I have the Honour to enclose to your Excellency & forward by Express to Genl Howe." The individuals of the Culper Spy Ring were able to heavily assist in breaking through the barrier of British rule through feats such as these which allowed them to gain liberation. In brief, this letter was preeminent for us to further understand the accomplishment briefed above by the Culper Spy Ring and discover the primary source evidence that allowed us to research it.

———. Letter to George Washington, "To George Washington from Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 19 November 1778," November 19, 1778. Accessed April 2, 2020. https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/03-18-02-0227.

In mid-November of 1778, Benjamin Tallmadge's correspondence to George Washington genuinely conveys the development of the barrier of trepidation that Abraham Woodhull had to break through. Tallmadge writes with regard to Abraham Woodhull, "His extreme cautiousness & even timidity, in his present undertaking, would not admit of having his business made known to any Persons." Tallmadge later delineated that General Charles Scott had observed that if Woodhull's role in patriotic espionage was known to anybody it is probable that he would "leave his present employmt immediately." Abraham Woodhull's impediment of fear of getting caught by the British particularly in his 50 mile journey to was the most intractable one too surmount. The Culper Spy Ring subsequently utilized

many method such as dead drops, the compartmentalizing of intelligence, and the well-crafted back stories which were largely responsible of alleviating the fear of the spies. In brief, this letter was critical for our understanding of Abraham Woodhull's fear and the ramifications he proposed that would come if his identity was revealed.

———. Letter to George Washington, "To George Washington from Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 25 July 1779," July 25, 1779. Accessed September 29, 2019. https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/03-21-02-0540. [Original source: The Papers of George Washington, Revolutionary War Series, vol. 21, 1 June–31 July 1779, ed.

In the letter addressed to George Washington from Benjamin Tallmadge depicts the introduction of the numerical code book that Benjamin Tallmadge created. Benjamin Tallmadge agrees that agrees to its imperfections, but doesn't doubt its sufficiency in in rendering the correspondence safe. It assists us in our ability to understand more letters and reports that were created by the spy ring, and it will help us in the development of our project. This is due to its ability to guide us in one of the advancements of the Culper spy ring that increased the efficiency of the Culper spy ring. In the letter it briefly addresses an invisible ink they were using.

———. Letter to George Washington, "To George Washington from Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 23 December 1778," December 23, 1778. Accessed March 23, 2020. https://founders.archives.gov/?q=culper&s=1111311111&sa=&r=10&sr=.

Major Benjamin Tallmadge's correspondence to George Washington in late December of 1778 gives us attestation that George Washington did not know the identity of any of the members of the spy ring. Benjamin Tallmadge wrote, "Since your Excellency judges it improper to have an interview with C—— , any private instructions which you may wish to transmit him, not so proper for me to transcribe, may be very safely convey'd to him;" In the letter, Tallmadge also encloses intelligence from Abraham Woodhull to George Washington addressed under the alias' Samuel Culper to John Bolton. The quote stated above is corroboration that George Washington had to remove the impediment of the pressure of the lives of agents on his hands while simultaneously not knowing their identities, only basing off their correspondence with the exception of Benjamin Tallmadge. George Washington surmounted this barrier with the alias' provided to the members except for . In brief, this letter between the two individuals was paramount to develop on our understanding of George Washington's knowledge of the identities of the spies and to further research what the Culper Spy Ring was doing in late 1778.

———. Letter to James Sparks, 1833.

When Benjamin Tallmadge addressed President Sparks in 1833 on his account of Benedict Arnold's treason, Major Tallmadge states his relationship with Nathan Hale. In the memoir, Tallmadge remarks, "When I could no longer evade this Importunity, I said to him that I had a much loved Classmate in by the name of Nathan Hale, who entered the Army with me in the year 1776. After the British troops had entered N. York, Genl Washington wanted Information respecting the strength, position & probable movements of the Enemy. Capt. Hale tendered his services, went into N. York, ..." Tallmadge's

letter the General Washington gave our group evidence of Benjamin Tallmadge's relationship to Nathan Hale. Benjamin Tallmadge also briefs on his stating to John André that he believes his fate is similar to Nathan Hale's. This correspondence gave proof of their relationship which lead us to conduct more research on Nathan Hale's life and his execution. Our research on Nathan Hale's life lead us to understand more proficiently about the espionage prior to the Culper Spy Ring.

Townsend, Robert. "Robert Townsend Account Books." Chart. 1772-1785. Accessed January 30, 2020. http://easthamptonlibrary.org/long-island-history/robert-townsend-account-books/.

The firsthand information revealed in Robert Townsend's account books was extremely helpful in understanding how Townsend operated in Oyster Bay and then in . All of Townsend's entries reveal more about Townsend's mood swings and emotional struggles. The periods of inactivity in Townsend's ledgers show his emotional struggles and business habits. For example, when Townsend's dear friend Agent 355 was mysteriously captured, Townsend's entries became very spaced out and almost non-existent. They went from almost every day to not even once a month. These ledgers showed to our group the toll espionage sometimes had on the spies' daily lives.

Trumbull, Jonathan Sr. Letter to George Washington, "To George Washington from , Sr., 5 May 1780," May 5, 1780. Accessed December 10, 2019. https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/03-25-02-0395.

John Trumbull, the governor of , wrote the recommendatory letter to George Washington in the spring of 1780. The petitioners formed an enterprise to announce to the governor, and he sent them to George Washington who applauded them. Eventually, he made several visits to New York City, and was happy to obtain the important information. Unfortunately, on September 7th, 1780, he was arrested in New York City as a spy, still residing at Horse Neck in Connecticut, and on the information of a villain. He was confided in the lower dungeons and remained in that situation for two hundred and thirty five days. "He further begs leave to represent that tho' his Excellency General Washington did not agree with your Petitioner for any stipulated sum, still he was promised the most generous reward for his services;". This letter gathers more information to the development of our project as it explains his efforts as a spy. Also, it portrays events like this happening in the Culper Spy Ring.

Washington, George. Letter to Benjamin Tallmadge, "From George Washington to Benjamin Tallmadge, 11 September 1783," September 11, 1783.

George Washington's correspondence addressed to Benjamin Tallmadge addresses both the faults and successes of the Culper Spy Ring and as the members individually. George Washington remarks in regard to Abraham Woodhull, that "the Services which were rendered by him (however well meant) was by no means adequate to these Expenditures." He also briefs on his regrets of not ending his intelligence "long before a cessation of hostilities took place, because his communications were never frequent, and always tedious getting into hand." Nevertheless, at the closing of the letter George Washington addresses Benjamin Tallmadge with kind remarks offering him his "sincere & Affectionate thanks for your good wishes,..." Washington also states, "the favourable sentiments you have been pleased to

express of me; the ready obedience, & polite attention which I have ever experienced from the officers of the Army, over whom I have had the honor to preside, fills me with the most pleasing sensations; the reflection of which will contribute not a little to my future happiness; to none, am I more indebted for these than to yourself and with great truth I can assure you that at all times and in whatever place I may be, I shall have pleasure in seeing you, and making thes acknowledgements, being with much truth Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt." Washington's ability to express happiness and kindness to Benjamin Tallmadge is apparent for his works in espionage, and this correspondence depicts both the proficiency and delay of the Culper Spy Ring.

———. Letter to Benjamin Tallmadge, "From George Washington to Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 5 July 1779," July 5, 1779.

George Washington's response to Benjamin Tallamdge's letter which has not been found addresses Tallmadge's loss of papers which "was certainly a most unlucky accident." George Washington reminds and pleads Tallmadge in this situation that it is paramount to not keep circumstantial evidence of any consequence "at an advanced post" "to guard against the like in the future." George Higday's life was most targetted by the papers stolen during the attack on Tallamdge's camp. George Washington writes, "...Higday who lives not far from the on the Island of New York3—I wish you could endeavour to give him the speediest notice of what has happened—My anxiety on his account is great, if he is really the man he has been represented to be, he will in all probability fall a sacrifice." After these events, George Higday was arrested based on the British obtaining these papers which candidly expresses the dangers of espionage and the risks the members of the Culper Spy Ring were taking. The members of the spy ring were sacrificing their lives to break the ultimate barrier of rule from Britain to procure liberty and justice from freedom.

———. Letter to Benjamin Tallmadge, "From George Washington to Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 9 October 1779," October 9, 1779. Accessed February 27, 2020. https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/03-22-02-0558.

In early October, George Washington's correspondence to Benjamin Tallmadge informs him to meet with him personally to converse "to establish a very regular communication with Long Island." George Washington writes, "these plans are better settled personally than by letter, I shall be glad to see you at Head Quarters. After leaving some person who can be intrusted with the Rect of C—— letters and forwarding them and any observations upon the sound, be pleased to ride over.4 I am Dear Sir Yr most ot Servt." Based on this information, it can be determined how paramount Washington found the Culper Spy Ring and its intelligence. According to the Editorial Note by National Archives, "Clearly putting a premium on the Culper intelligence, GW in October held a conference with Tallmadge to discuss their operations; the conference resulted in a set of specific instructions to govern the spies' activities during the anticipated offensive."

———. Letter to Benjamin Tallmadge, "From George Washington to Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 6 October 1779," October 6, 1779. Accessed March 22, 2020. https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/03-22-02-0526.

George Washington's correspondence to Benjamin Tallmadge in early October of 1779 conveyed how paramount the intelligence the Culper Spy Ring gathered was to his operations. George Washington was expecting the arrival of Vice Admiral D'Estaing's French fleet to prepare for an allied attack as joint operations. Subsequently, he needed intelligence regarding the British in specific points briskly. George Washington wrote, "I wish also to know where their shipping lyes, and if they appear to be taking measures, and what measures, for their security in case of a French ⟨fleet⟩'s entering the harbour." Based on this letter, it can be portrayed the reliance Washington had on the Culper Spy Ring and espionage. In times like these, planning his defensive dispositions, and more, intelligence from the Culper Spy Ring aided George Washington to remove the impediment of the disadvantages of his army to lead to liberation. The Culper Spy Ring was able to be essential in surmounting the barrier of the restrictive rule of the British with intelligence operations such as this one. In essence, this letter was essential in the development of our research to both understand the Culper Spy Ring's actions during this time and George Washington's dependence on the members of the spy ring.

———. Letter to Benjamin Tallmadge, "From George Washington to Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 29 November 1778," November 29, 1778. Accessed September 29, 2019. https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/03-18-02-0363.

In late November, George Washington remarked to Benjamin Tallmadge that one of Abraham Woodhull's first reports was beneficial and he is "desirous of continuance of his correspondence." Due to this early success, George Washington directs Benjamin Tallmadge with the continuance of the spy network. In contrary to the success, George Washington also wished for an advancement in regard to the route of the messages. He wishes this could be brought upon through an officer in Danbury which would be known to him. This conveyance of information to Tallmadge guided us in the development of our project as it shows George Washington's reaction to the first of the Culper Spy Ring's works. This letter gathers how the Culper Spy Ring was breaking barriers in the intelligence community in the first stages of its development comparison to the expectations not met from the previous espionage network.

———. Letter to Benjamin Tallmadge, "From George Washington to Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 21 March 1779," March 21, 1779. Accessed November 22, 2019. "From George Washington to Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 21 March 1779," Founders Online, National Archives, accessed September 29, 2019, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/03-19-02-0550. [Original source: The Papers of George Washington, Revolutionary War Series, vol. 19, 15 January–7 April 1779, ed. Philander D. Chase and William M. Ferraro. Charlottesville: Press, 2009, pp. 561–563.].

We learned from this letter that on March 21, 1779, George Washington wanted to change several aspects of the Culper Spy Ring's methods. He wished that Abraham Woodhull could use a more direct channel for the conveyance of his letters through General Maxwell in Elizabeth town or Colo. Shrieve in Newark. He also wanted Woodhull to move to New York (the headquarters of Britain) to reduce suspicion. George Washington also wanted them to focus on detail about troops, reinforcements, and refugees in detail. George Washington soon adapted the spy ring to his own needs, issuing new instructions in March 1779. This letter helps to the development of our project as it reiterates his effect on the Culper Spy Ring. It also portrays the improvements the Culper Spy Ring could undergo.

———. Letter to Benjamin Tallmadge, "From George Washington to Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 25 July 1779," July 25, 1779.

In George Washington's correspondence to Benjamin Tallmadge, he explains how the invisible works to Major Tallmadge. George Washington asks Benjamin Tallmadge to send both the invisible ink and counterpart to Robert Townsend, otherwise known as Samuel Junior. George Washington also mentions that Governor Tyron, a British officer, "has a preparation of the same kind," which could possibly lead to detection and which is why "prudence & circumspection," is necessary. In the letter, General Washington also would like to know where the regiment lies, and if certain that regiments lay on and the city of York. General Washington also briefs on fleets passing Eastward by Norwalk and General Clinton and Sir were with this fleet. General Washington also requests to hear about a response on the subjects that are addressed in the letter.

———. Letter to Benjamin Tallmadge, "From George Washington to Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 25 August 1778," August 25, 1778.

In late August, George Washington's correspondence with Benjamin Tallmadge was briefed in Tallmadge's memoir that included extra information by Henry Phelps Johnston. Johnston remarks, "The Major's first connection with it seems to date from August 25th, 1778, soon after the , when Washington sent him an invitation to dine with him and talk the business over. Washington briefs that if Sheldon is with Abraham Woodhull then they could join as well. This letter is the first connection to the Culper Spy Ring in which Major Tallmadge rendered extensive and paramount service to Washington. It helps us understand when Tallmadge first was introduced to the Spy Ring.

———. Letter to Benjamin Tallmadge, "From George Washington to Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 28 August 1779," August 28, 1779.

In late August of 1779, George Washington addressed Major Benjamin Tallmadge. In the correspondence, George Washington referred to the Culper Spy Ring for means of obtaining intelligence that" is essential—To know as nearly as may be the amount of the enemy's reinforcement with Arbuthnot—how many, & the names of the compleat Corps wch compose it—whether there is any bustle in preparing for a movement of Troops by Land or Water, or both—and the destination of it, as far as can be discovered from appearances, information, or surmise..." The information that the Culper Spy Ring was to procure help in his plans for "defense dispositions." George Washington greatly relied on the intelligence of the Culper Spy Ring during August 1779 which is rendered in this letter to Major Tallmadge. This correspondence depicts the sundry ways that the Culper Spy Ring was of aid to General Washington and the dependence that the general had among the spy ring members for his plans.

———. Letter to Benjamin Tallmadge, "From George Washington to Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 27 June 1779," June 27, 1779.

In late June of 1779, George Washington's correspondence to Benjamin Tallmadge addresses Robert Townsend and the counterfeit money flooding attempt that had figured out about. His expectations for Robert Townsend were for him to "endeavour to hit upon some certain mode of conveying his information quickly; for it is of little avail to be told of things after they have become matters of public notariety; & known to every body." One of the most proficient feats of the Culper Spy Ring was the attempt of the flooding of the counterfeit money that is addressed in this letter. Washington wants Robert Townsend to communicate his signature and private marks by which the counterfeits are supposed to be distinguished from his genuine papers. Washington also briefs on George Higday who has good relations with the British as mentioned by Washington who could convey intelligence with him when he was on the West side of the North river. George Washington also briefs on his knowledge of the fate of Higday and the members of the spy ring. He remarks, "I do not know who H——employs but from H——I obtain intelligence, and his name and business should be kept profoundly secret, otherwise we not only lose the benefits derived from it, but may subject him to some unhappy fate."

———. Letter to Benjamin Tallmadge, "George Washington to Benjamin Tallmadge, September 22, 1779," September 22, 1779. Accessed April 4, 2020. https://www.loc.gov/resource/mgw3b.010/?sp=37&st=text.

In George Washington's correspondence to Benjamin Tallmadge it develops on the perspective of Washington's opinions and reliance on the Culper Spy Ring. General Washington wrote, "Very interesting events have taken place which must and have produced circumstances in New York, deserving of his notice: That he has gone so far beyond his promise makes me rather uneasy on his account and desirous to learn what you may think on the subject." This quote provides two paramount sections that relate to George Washington's outlook on the spy ring's espionage operations. The first part of the quote conveying the recent events in New York and his need of intelligence further reiterates another point in time where he relied on intelligence as his hidden weapon and the individuals as his

clandestine army. Moreover, in the second section of the quote, it portrays that Washington often got anxious when not receiving intelligence from Woodhull due to the value of the reports. This depicts that along with the spies of the Culper Spy Ring, George Washington had to overcome not only the barrier of anxiety of having the pressure of the spy’s lives on his hands, but also the anxiety of not receiving intelligence at a timely rate or breaks in procuring it. In brief, the letter in late September precisely shows an additional barrier that George Washington had to surmount, Abraham Woodhull's delay in reports, the reliance he had on the Culper Spy Ring, and events that were happening during this period of time.

———. Letter to Charles-Hector Théodat Comte d' Estaing, "From George Washington to Vice Admiral d'Estaing, 11–12 September 1778," September 11, 1778. Accessed September 29, 2019. https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/03-16-02-0616.

George Washington's letter addressed to Vice Admiral d'Estaing taught us information about several different aspects about the Culper Spy Ring. George Washington addresses naval plans for the colonists, and how to counteract the British. This source, however, was primarily used for the response to d'Estaing about espionage. George Washington assures the Vice Admiral that in regard to the position of the British, the need for intelligence has been taken to answer as could be expected, and he agrees with him. This assurance is based on the letter to George Washington from Brigadier General Charles Scott on September 10, 1778 that we previously read. General Washington's information relayed helped us with the development of our project due to the information that as we got more information on the certainty George Washington had with his previous espionage group. As we learn about the Culper Spy Ring's development, this is beneficial as we can determine the difference in their abilities, and how it came to an end or continued to develop.

———. Letter to Charles Scott, "From George Washington to Brigadier General Charles Scott, 25 September 1778," September 25, 1778. Accessed September 25, 1778. https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/03-17-02-0122.

George Washington's letter to General Charles Scott depicts the difference in opinion George Washington has based on the letter from George Washington to Vice Admiral d'Estaing on September 11–12th, 1778. In that letter, George Washington believes that he has taken every measure for gathering intelligence on British intentions in regard to the resupplying of D'Estaing's troops. In contrary, two weeks later George Washington addresses in this letter that he wants Charles Scott to create a new spy network. The reports are suit to fit the French general; this primarily includes the movements of the British Ships at War in New York. It also mentions Abraham Woodhull, who George Washington recommends. We learned that the Culper Spy Ring was the effect of an unsuccessful previous espionage network in regard to George Washington and the French General's needs. The letter includes the first expectations of the spy ring, the first stage in development, and the members that were in consideration.

———. Letter to Comte de Rochambeau, "George Washington to Comte de Rochambeau, 27 July 1780," July 27, 1780. Accessed April 13, 2020. https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Hamilton/01-02-02-0789.

In George Washington's correspondence to Comte de Rochambeau it is the first primary source evidence corroboration of Washington's plans for a diversionary attack in New York with the assistance of the Culper Spy Ring. It is probable that the letter written could have possibly been the letter that the espionage ring let fall into the enemy's hands being a factor in why the British called off the attack on Newport, Rhode Island that could have destroyed the Franco-American alliance. This letter was paramount to the development of our primary source evidence concerning one of the Culper Spy Ring's most profound feats according to multiple secondary sources. In brief, this letter conveyed how the Culper Spy Ring broke through the barrier of the British knowledge of the 7,600 troops at Rhode Island by spreading diversionary intelligence consequently aiding our research greatly.

———. Letter to , "From George Washington to Colonel Elias Dayton, 26 July 1777," July 26, 1777. Accessed February 8, 2020. https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/03-10-02-0415.

In this letter, George Washington recognized the dire need for spying. He knew that spying was the way to win the war. Washington wrote, “The necessity of procuring good Intelligence is apparent & need not be further urged—All that remains for me to add, is, that you keep the whole matter as secret as possible." To win the war, spying was crucial. They needed to keep everything a secret matter, Washington had finally understood that the only way to end with a victory against the unbeatable army was with espionage. There was no other way. This letter showed to our group why Washington needed intelligence and the dire necessity for it. Also, this letter showed how the Dayton Ring was another ring that operated alongside the Culper Spy Ring. The letter read, "Because I wish you to take every possible pains in your power, by sending trusty persons to Staten Island in whom you can confide to obtain intelligence of the Enemy's situation & numbers—What kind of Troops they are, and What Guards they have—their Strength & where posted." Washington, in this letter, was recruiting Elias Dayton to create a ring to gather intelligence. Washington told Dayton to take everything in his power and send trustworthy people to gather intelligence. Overall, this letter represented the need for spying, but also more information on the Dayton Spy Ring.

———. Letter to John Laurens, "From George Washington to John Laurens, 13 October 1780," October 13, 1780. Accessed February 21, 2020. https://founders.archives.gov/?q=george%20washington%20%2213%20october%201780%22&s=11113 11111&sa=&r=11&sr=.

General Washington's letter addressed to John Laurens is primary source evidence from George Washington's reaction to Benedict Arnold's treason and how it affected George Washington personally. He writes with regard to Benedict Arnold, "From some traits of his character which have lately come to my knowledge he seems to have been so hackneyed in villainy—& so lost to all sense of honor and shame that while his faculties will enable him to continue his sordid pursuits there will be no time for remorse." Washington also includes how three men captured John André, but "should as certainly have got Arnold." George Washington's letter portrays the trust he had in Benedict Arnold and how

deeply his actions affected him. The Culper Spy Ring was the primary reason Benedict Arnold was recognized as a traitor and as we include a scene in our performance about George Washington's reaction to Benedict Arnold's "villainous perfidy" it was crucial for us to truly understand how it affected him so we could embody it within our performance.

———. Letter to Nathaniel Sackett, "From George Washington to Nathaniel Sackett, 8 April 1777," April 8, 1777. Accessed March 14, 2020. https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/03-09-02-0096.

This letter conveys Nathaniel Sackett's intelligence operations during the Revolutionary War and the reasoning to why George Washington believed he was not suitable for the position of leading a covert intelligence service. Washington writes, "As your Letter of yesterdays date is rather a narative of what you have done, than any thing else, scarce any answer is necessary..." When we synthesized other primary source we found that General Washington valued delineations that were both short and concise. Moreover, George Washington briefs on the importance of timely intelligence so it is not found as false and to prevent "erroneous Acts." These criticisms with Sackett's leadership were paramount to the development of the spy ring and to come to a conclusive decision on why Sackett was fired. Despite these censures, Nathaniel Sackett broke barriers with the gathering of intelligence that would guide the members of the Culper Spy Ring to further revolutionize those methods.

———. Letter to Nathaniel Sackett, "Orders to Nathaniel Sackett, 4 February 1777," February 4, 1777. Accessed September 29, 2019. https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/03-08-02-0259.

George Washington's letter addressed to Nathaniel Sackett gives him instructions for "obtaining the earliest and best Intelligence of the designs of the enemy." He tells him that he will pay him 50 dollars each month for the work that he is doing. The date of this letter on February 4th, 1777 which is a year apart from the letters addressed to General Scott. This guided us in our research as it allows us to understand if the Culper Spy Ring was developed earlier or previous spy rings during the American Revolution.

———. Letter to Robert Hunter Morris, "From George Washington to Robert Hunter Morris, 1 January 1756," January 1, 1756. Accessed February 1, 2020. https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/02- 02-02-0255.

George Washington's letter to Robert Hunter Morris portrays Washington's knowledge of the profound benefits of intelligence prior to the Revolutionary War in the due to the letter being written in early 1756. Washington writes, "There is nothing more necessary than good intelligence to frustrate a designing Enemy: and nothing that requires greater pains to obtain. I shall therefore cheerfully come into any measures you can propose to settle a correspondence for this salutary end: and you may depend upon receiving (when the provinces are threatened) the earliest and best intelligence I can procure." We utilized this quote in our play as a line from George Washington because it genuinely conveys the importance of the Culper Spy Ring among with the barriers that needed to be broken for it to be effective. In the Culper Spy Ring, the intelligence the members gathered proved to have a profound impact on the successful outcome of the revolutionary war, but the members were often hard

to procure due to the risk of dying an ignominious death and anxiety. The quote directly corresponds to Nathan Hale, which is corroboration that securing spies would prove to be difficult. George Washington's letter gives our group evidence of the necessity of intelligence and how he recognized it prior to the revolutionary war.

———. Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior. Washington, W.H. Morrison, 1888. Accessed February 13, 2020. https://archive.org/details/washingtonsrule00washgoog/page/n14/mode/2up.

General Washington's "Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior" candidly depicts the social barriers that he broke with the utilization of the Culper Spy Ring. Washington's book conveys how much honor meant to him and the constrictive rules that he followed to be known as a gentleman and to climb socially of being "a leading Virginian." After synthesizing several sources, we found that spying was dishonorable and was both disgraceful and shameful during the time of the Revolutionary War. Moreover, spying was treated as treason and as seen with prior to John André's death he wanted to die a soldier's death instead of a spy's death. However, General Washington still managed the espionage ring despite these social understandings of the public knowing that he had everything to lose. His "Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior" were described as "..rules were instructions on proper etiquette. Making a good impression on people was important in colonial society." This not only renders the importance of honor and the barrier that George Washington was breaking.

Woodhull, Abraham. Letter to Benjamin Tallmadge, "Enclosure: Samuel Culper to Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 22 January 1779," January 22, 1779. Accessed January 21, 2020. https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/03-19-02-0092-0002.

Abraham Woodhull (Samuel Culper) wrote in this letter about classified information such as British troop movements and battalion size to Benjamin Tallmadge. This letter contains information about the abundance of supplies that Great Britain had. For example, the letter included a statement that claimed that a British fleet contained 25 ships. The spies also used the word, "sir" rather than using Tallmadge's name. This traces back to the importance of secrecy in the letters for the spies. This letter contains useful information to the Continental army as it contained multiple facts that compromised British information. Overall, this letter shows us how Culper Spy Ring wrote information and organized their letters. This represents just how trusted the Culper Ring was with information. Washington had no identity for the spies, so he just had to trust that they were giving valid information. Washington trusted them with such valuable information and it shows how important the spies actually were.

———. Letter to Benjamin Tallmadge, "From Samuel Culper to Benjamin Tallmadge, 5 June 1779," June 5, 1779.

In Abraham Woodhull's correspondence with Benjamin Tallmadge, it addresses the - Misfortune on the 24 of April - the beating of his father in the only primary source evidence we have found. Abraham Woodhull elucidates on the process, first beginning with John Wosely who returned from Connecticut after being paroled. Wosely lodged information against Abraham Woodhull of most likely his intelligence operations within the Culper Spy Ring. He writes "And Lodgid information againts me before Coll Simcoe of the Rangers who thinking of finding me at Setauket Came down but happily I Set out for N. york the day before his arrival. And to make Some Compensation for his Voige he fell upon my father and Plundered him in a most Schocking Manner I hearing of it and his intentions used every endevour to defeat his designs which I hapily did in a measure by a freind of mine makeing intrest with the Genl Aid and only that Saved me." At the conclusion of the letter Abraham Woodhull explains that he believes he is in continual danger based off of the events mentioned above. Abraham Woodhull eventually resides in Setauket after these events occur and Robert Townsend takes his place in New York. In the development of our research, Woodhull explicates on these proceedings in this letter to Benjamin Tallmadge. In brief, it serves as attestation of the reasoning of why Abraham Woodhull had stopped providing intelligence in New York and the prime barrier of trepidation he had to overcome based on this event.

Annotated Secondary Sources

"Agent 355." History of American Women. Accessed March 16, 2020. http://www.womenhistoryblog.com/2011/12/agent-355.html.

In the History of American Women's article regarding Agent 355 it gives a full specification of Agent 355's both role and effect on the members of the Culper Spy Ring. In the inception of Robert Townsend's reports he "indicated that he could get good information on the British Navy, but little on the British Army." Consequently, Abraham Woodhull briefs in his correspondence with Benjamin Tallmadge that he intended to visit New York to get assistance from a 355 (lady). George Washington was able to receive beneficial concise intelligence about the British Army within two months of the letter. Agent 355 additionally is conjectured to be the member passing information concerning Benedict Arnold's treason that ultimately lead to the apprehension of John André. After rounding up suspects following John André's capture, " A pregnant Agent 355 was arrested and questioned, but refused to reveal any information on her activities or the father of her child. Had Townsend formed a powerful emotional attachment to her, and was gathering money to ransom her freedom? Agent 355 was held aboard the notorious prison ship HMS Jersey in New York harbor, where conditions on those prison ships were so horrific that life expectancy was only a few months. She later gave birth to a boy, but allegedly died aboard the ship." Subsequently, reports from the members of the Culper Spy Ring declined and Robert Townsend according to family letters, "lived out his days depressed, unmarried and drinking heavily." Agent 355 was a leading figure in breaking the barrier of oppressive rule from the British with the assistance of the Culper Spy Ring. Although her identity has still not been discovered, her clandestine operations lead to the discovery of Benedict Arnold and providing further beneficial intelligence to fundamentally lead to the liberation of America.

Allen, Peter Van. "Museum to Showcase George Washington's War Tent." Philadelphia Business Journal. Last modified December 3, 2013. Accessed February 19, 2020. https://www.bizjournals.com/philadelphia/news/2013/12/03/planned-museum-showcases-tent-fit- for.html.

Peter Van Allen described what George Washington had in his marquee for the development of the backdrop of our play. Due to us having George Washington's marquee for the backdrop of our play, we needed to understand what George Washington had in it as well for props. According to the article, "Washington's marquee served as both his sleeping quarters and war office, and would have been filled with maps, books, journals and so on. He lived in it for eight years, returning to his home at Mount Vernon just once, said Michael Quinn, president and CEO of the Museum of the American Revolution." Based on this information, we were able to understand what George Washington utilized and what to add to our play including his maps, books, and journals.

Andrews, Evan. "9 Things You May Not Know about Benedict Arnold." History.com. Last modified January 13, 2016. Accessed February 21, 2020. http://www.history.com/news/9-things-you-may-not-know- about-benedict-arnold.

Evan Andrews' article provides a detailed description on what fueled Arnold's treason which was fundamental in our research to learn about the before aspect. Based on the information provided in the website, he began secretly contacting British General Henry Clinton to ask if he could switch his loyalty with the crown. The methods he utilized to keep this correspondence discreet were some of the same methods used by the Culper Spy Ring these including coded letters and invisible ink. According to the article, "Greed and personal debts were certainly a motivating factor in Arnold's treachery—he demanded 20,000 British pounds for turning his coat—but he had also become disillusioned with the revolutionary cause. He'd been stung by a decision to promote five junior officers ahead of him, and he believed fellow soldiers such as and Horatio Gates had tried to smear his reputation and take credit for his successes on the battlefield." Historians agree that his wife who came from a well-known leading factor was also a cause in which he turned traitor.

"Anna Smith Strong." History of American Women. Accessed April 5, 2020. https://my.noodletools.com/web/bibliography.html.

The article "Anna Smith Strong" not only reinforced our knowledge on the Culper Spy Ring, but gave us additional information on Anna Strong. Anna Strong's husband Selah Strong, a prominent patriot judge, made their family a target for the British. The text states that, "In 1778 her husband Judge Selah Strong was arrested and confined on the British prison ship Jersey in New York harbor for "surreptitious correspondence with the enemy." The conditions on those ships were terrible, and she finally got permission to bring him food, which evidently saved his life." Her husband and children went to Connecticut, and she subsequently stayed in Strong's Neck to take care of the family home. The article describes Anna Strong's operations in the Culper Spy Ring by explaining how she conveyed where Caleb Brewster resided in with her laundry. A piece of information that we had previously not come across before was that when George Washington toured Long Island in 1790, Selah Strong led Washington's carriage to Austin Roe's tavern where it is probable that he thanked the individuals of the spy ring for their sacrifices towards patriotic espionage. This genuinely portrays Washington's character towards the Culper Spy Ring, and how he was grateful. Moreover, the article gave us two barriers that Anna Strong and the Culper Spy Ring broke through. As briefed before, Anna Strong was able to surmount the barrier of being a target from the British through her simplicity in giving information by hanging laundry. Another barrier that the Culper Spy Ring broke through can be depicted in the following quote. "Despite some strained relations within the group and constant pressure from Washington to send more information, the Culper Spy Ring achieved more than any other American or British intelligence network during the war." Generally speaking, this article provided us new insight on the barriers the Culper Spy Ring broke, Anna Strong's life within and beyond the spy ring, and Washington's gratitude to the individuals succeeding the war.

Archives, National. "Editorial Note" [Editorial Note]. National Archives. Accessed January 10, 2020. https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/03-22-02-0039-0000.

This source talks about George Washington and his couriers and spies within the ring. d'Estaing had expected an attack on his men either from land, sea or both. He pressed Washington on reports on British intentions. In the months that are covered by this note, Washington relied heavily on the Culper reports to plan his own attacks and battle plans. He also used the intelligence to plan combined attacks with the French forces. "George Washington called on the Culper spies for "essential" reports to help him plan his defensive dispositions in anticipation of a British offensive up the Hudson River". General Washington also wrote letters to Benjamin Tallmadge regarding receiving information, battle plans, and other things regarding the network. He also talks about the art behind the mastery of spy craft. "He gave specific and detailed recommendations to Tallmadge on how Culper, Jr., should disguise his written reports to avoid detection." This aided our perspective the concern and stress Washington carried about the identity of his spies and keeping them safe. Abraham Woodhull sent his last "Culper" report in February 1783.

Auburn, Emma. "West Point." mountvernon.org. Accessed February 21, 2020. https://www.mountvernon.org/library/digitalhistory/digital-encyclopedia/article/west-point/#note8.

Emma Auburn's article was critical in understanding the role West Point had during the Revolutionary War and its importance. The text states, "West Point is located on a plateau on the west bank of the Hudson River approximately sixty miles north of New York City." The Culper Spy Ring aided in the breaking through the barrier of oppressive rule from the British with them being the primary cause Benedict Arnold was found as a traitor. Without intelligence, America could have lost the war without West Point; "George Washington called the fortified site "the most important Post in America," and he worked to keep Patriot control of West Point throughout the Revolutionary War." West Point under patriot control was paramount because it prevented the British from splitting the colonies into two halves with control of the Hudson River. The Hudson River also sent food, supplies, and communication throughout different recipients with access to the river. "West Point" briefs on Benedict Arnold being one of the two reasons why West Point could have been temporarily taken away from the Patriots the other reason being the British capturing Verplank's Point and Stony Point in the summer of 1779.

"Benjamin Tallmadge (1754-1835)." The American Revolution. Accessed April 6, 2020. http://www.ouramericanrevolution.org/index.cfm/people/view/pp0057.

The article provided us gave us information concerning Benjamin Tallmadge's life outside of the Culper Spy Ring. After graduating Yale and becoming friends with Nathan Hale, Benjamin Tallmadge accepted a school master position, but soon after left to join the Revolutionary War. He joined Colonel John Chester's regiment with lots of persuasion, and joined the Continental Army's encampment in New York City in June of 1776. He served in the and the Battle of , where he first caught the attention from George Washington. The test states, "Trusted by Washington and quickly advancing in rank and responsibility, Tallmadge was commissioned as a captain of the Second Continental Light in December of 1776, and was promoted to the rank of major in April of

1777. As an officer in the field he served in several notable actions, including the in Pennsylvania and the Battle of Monmouth in New Jersey. At , he commanded an observation corps." A critical piece of information that we procured regarding the Culper Spy Ring was that Major was the initial case officer for the spy ring, but due to his ill health he subsequently stepped down to Charles Scott. Other research that we obtained was that by the intelligence provided by the individuals in the spy network, he was able to "capture enemy supplies at the ill-defended Fort St. George on the east end of Long Island in November of 1780. Not only was the British outpost destroyed, but Tallmadge's troops were able to capture British supplies and march them out on the backs of British prisoners." In addition, after American victory became apparent Benjamin Tallmadge visited New York to ensure the safety of the spies because as they were perceived as loyal Tories, they could have suffered persecution once the British left. Succeeding the war, Tallmadge resided in Long Island, he married Mary Floyd, and then he went to Litchfield, Connecticut where he became a successful business man and bank president. He married again, and in 1800 he was elected to Congress and was for a period of time the chairman of the House Military Affairs Committee. He also played a paramount role "n the Connecticut branch of the Society of the (a Revolutionary War veterans' organization), in which he served as treasurer and eventually as president. He also leaves us a moving record of the American soldiers' love for Washington, reporting on the emotional scene of the General's parting from his troops at the end of the war." This article was essential to our research so we could understand the life of both Benjamin Tallmadge and "John Bolton."

"Breaking Barriers: George Washington and the development of America's intelligence community." mountvernon.org. Accessed January 31, 2020. https://www.mountvernon.org/education/for- students/national-history-day-2020/george-washington-breaking-barriers-2/.

The theme of "Breaking Barriers" candidly is portrayed within the article as it is also explicitly stated in the title as well in regard to the Culper Spy Ring. "Breaking Barriers: George Washington and the development of America's intelligence community," depicts the barriers the espionage ring broke and how they were able to shatter the obstructions that impeded them to develop. The text briefs, "Washington broke social and political barriers by using these tactics which proved beneficial to the cause and instrumental in the development of America's intelligence community." The tactics that the statement is referring to that the Culper Spy Ring utilized were misinformation, invisible ink, and a code book. Moreover, the article denominated George Washington as a general "who served under the British during the Seven Years War, sought to outsmart the enemy through different means." In other words, General Washington was able to break the hindrance of outsmarting the British with the implementation of the Culper Spy Ring and gathering intelligence. Consequently, with the development of this article, our group was able to discover a collection articles written by mountvernon.org that addressed National History Day and how events in the American Revolution related to the theme including the Culper Spy Ring.

"Captured Letters." William L. Clements Library. Accessed April 14, 2020. https://clements.umich.edu/exhibit/spy-letters-of-the-american-revolution/secret-methods/captured- letters/.

As shown in this source, many of the spies' missions were not mere successes. During the time of the Revolutionary War, couriers on horseback transported letters and documents. Both the British and American armies would routinely capture riders with saddlebags of mail, demanding to know the loyalties of the riders and searching the contents of the mail bags. The riders had many dangers of being caught while transporting letters behind enemy lines and had to be careful. Although, many spies' letters were not found, some were. This source lists some of those captured letters and showed to our group the dangers these spies had to face and the fear they had to endure.

Crary, Catherine Snell. "The Tory and the Spy: The Double Life of James Rivington." The William and Mary Quarterly 16, no. 1 (1959): 61-72. Accessed January 29, 2020. doi:10.2307/1918851.

This article was able to provide a full understanding of a very important spy in the Culper Spy Ring - James Rivington. Catherine Crary was able to pull together a number of primary sources that were able to shed light on Rivington's spying activities. One of these included his contribution to the victory at Yorktown which was previously deemed as apocryphal and therefore unreliable information. This article showed us how James Rivington was not always a patriot spy and gave details to his background life. Our group learned how Rivington was considered a man filled with lies and without a doubt a Tory. Rivington was a Tory but it is said that he switched allegiances, while some don't agree. Even Alexander Hamilton said he was "fully sensible... how detestable the character of the man is in every respect." According to this, Rivington was considered a hated person and it was hard for historians to believe that he had actually been a spy. The article also mentioned about how Allen McLane's memoirs mentioned Rivington's help. The memoir mentioned how McLane had gotten the British naval code book for Yorktown from Rivington which ultimately led to the success of the war. Overall, this article was very helpful in bringing new perspectives of James Rivington and providing a plethora of research about Rivington and assisting us with a fuller knowledge of the Culper Spy Ring.

Cregeau, Damien. Videoconference interview by the author. Rosa International Middle School, Cherry Hill, NJ. January 17, 2020.

The first interview we conducted for the development of our project was with Damien Cregeau. Mr. Cregeau lived in Fairfield, Connecticut in his youth and he lived across from the grave of Caleb Brewster, he had tried to buy the Tallmadge house as well, but it was in bad shape. He answered sundry questions we had about our topic and gave us contacts for the future to guide us in our research. He explained that the members of the ring risked their lives out of necessity because George Washington was desperate for information in New York. It portrayed patriotic sacrifice in desperate times specifically war. He also introduced us to the Dayton Spy Ring or Mercereau Ring created by Elias Dayton that arguably were the first to discover the British attempt to attack the French at Newport. He briefed on more members of the ring including who was a tailor, but he was not officially in the ring. Mr. Cregeau also explained to our group that spying was a part of reality and war

at the time for both the British and the Patriots. One piece of information that he gave us in opposition to several sources was that there was no proof of Anna Strong using the black petticoat and six handkerchiefs because it is just a family story. However, he remarked that it would make perfect sense if Anna Strong had used her laundry, but there is no evidence of it. He told us that after the Culper Spy Ring had stopped providing intelligence, only some of the members were rewarded. James Rivington was given gold, and Washington recognized Tallmadge. Moreover, George Washington had foggy memory and most of the other members did not apply for pension. Mr. Cregeau gave us suggestions for our play as well. He wanted it to be accurate, to slightly acknowledge the Dayton Ring, Alexander Hamilton's influence, Benjamin Tallmadge finding out about Benedict Arnold, Nathan Hale, spy recruiting, dead droops in the field and more. He gave us contacts such as Rachel Smith, Ken Daigler, and Christian McBerny and resources such as his video with C-Span, Journal of the American Revolution, Rachel Smith's blog, and the book "Spies, Patriots, Traitors," that has a chapter on the Culper Spy Ring. Mr. Cregeau's interview helped us connect our research and gave us crucial knowledge that will lead to the development of our play. In the future, Mr. Cregeau suggested that we do another interview with him and he would be pleased to read or revise the draft for our script.

Daigler, Ken. "Allen McLane - Revolutionary War Intelligence Officer and Spy." In Allen McLane - Revolutionary War Intelligence Officer and Spy. Previously published in Journal of the American Revolution. Accessed February 3, 2020. https://allthingsliberty.com/2018/03/allen-mclane- revolutionary-war-intelligence-officer-and-spy/#_edn13.

Allen McLane was a critical factor in the victorious outcome for the Patriots of the Battle of Yorktown. Ken Daigler who was one of our interviews, wrote this article with regard to Allen McLane. He briefs that Allen McLane gathered the British naval signal book "which contained the code used by the British fleet to coordinate its movements" from Culper Spy Ring member, James Rivington. "Details of McLane's actions with Rivington have not been uncovered, but it is known that McLane received from Rivington the British naval signal book, which contained the code used by the British fleet to coordinate its movements. How, when and from whom Rivington obtained the book remains unknown. The book was subsequently provided to the French Fleet operating to keep the British bottled up at Yorktown. The book may have provided information of value to the French," Daigler writes. Ken Daigler's article depicts the contributions the Culper Spy Ring had to breaking the obstruction of tyrannical rule of the British. In brief, both James Rivington and Allen McLane had a profound impact on the patriotic success of the Battle of Yorktown.

Daigler, Kenneth. Videoconference interview by the author. Rosa International Middle School, Cherry Hill, NJ. January 23, 2019.

Our interview with Ken Daigler was paramount to the development of our research because he had a connection with modern day espionage as he was a retired CIA officer. He explained how he began researching the roots of espionage as he was interested in the core of his occupation. As he began his research, he explained how he started with the introduction of Nathan Hale, saying how his poor spying skills resulted into his death. As Hale and Benjamin had a close relation, Tallmadge was shocked by the hanging his lifelong companion. Years later after Washington approached and recruited different men

for a new-found spy ring, he finally came upon Benjamin Tallmadge. As Washington managed the spy ring through Tallmadge, he was not shy of opinion and gave advice to Tallmadge when the time was needed. Mr. Daigler described how the Culper Spy Ring was much more advanced than the any other spy rings at the time, and it played a key role as Washington's weapon to win the war. He says how the fact that the agents directly reported back their works, and how their efficiency of spying techniques took play into their success in the triumph of the Revolutionary War. He clarified his theory of who Agent 355 was, and how he mainly believed it would be proved to be Anna Strong. Finally, he included how the works of the Culper Spy Ring impacted and led to the CIA, and the importance it held to the independence the Americans gained.

DeWan, George. "Passionate about the Past: Morton Pennypacker Unraveled Important Stories of Long Island's History." Newsday. Last modified January 22, 1998. Accessed April 9, 2020. https://www.newsday.com/long-island/history/passionate-about-the-past-morton-pennypacker- unraveled-important-stories-of-long-island-s-history-1.7512504.

"One of the Culper Spy Ring's deepest secrets eluded historical detectives for almost a century and a half. The real name of the spy known as Culper Jr. was not uncovered until 1939, and the sleuth was a dedicated amateur historian named Morton Pennypacker." After the Culper Spy Ring's operations, it was paramount that our group understood the critical research Morton Pennypacker did that allowed us to further learn about the espionage ring. Pennypacker loved Long Island history and subsequently had ground-breaking discoveries about the Culper Spy Ring since they primarily operated in Long Island. Morton Pennypacker discovered that Robert Townsend was Culper Jr. by finding a chest of letters in Robert Townsend's property in Oyster Bay. He also wrote books concerning stories that the spy ring was instrumental in the discovery of Major John André's treason, and Agent 355's role in the spy ring. He was able to break through the barrier of the unknown with his research and allow us to understand that the Culper Spy Ring genuinely relied on secrecy even after they finished gathering intelligence. In brief, this article was important for our research to understand Morton Pennypacker's contributions and we also gained several resources such as the books he wrote.

Eliassen, Meredith. "Personality." Mount Vernon. Accessed March 15, 2020. https://www.mountvernon.org/library/digitalhistory/digital-encyclopedia/article/personality/.

Mount Vernon's article "Personality" conveys George Washington's character himself and his virtues. "He labored to shape his identity in "American" terms. Washington's experiences uncovered truths that enabled him to create a unique public persona for himself within a new, burgeoning America," the text states. Patriotism and virtue were paramount to George Washington which shows the breaking and the barrier with his utilization of the Culper Spy Ring. George Washington had to disregard his virtues and honors as spying was considered dishonorable to use intelligence as his secret weapon within the duration of the war. However, he surmounted through this barrier of morality with patriotism and the idea of procuring liberty for Americans. He had everything to risk by using espionage more specifically his life, fortune, and sacred honor, but he truly believed in its beneficial effects. Washington additionally believed that external appearance should reflect inner merit, and he lied about his height with this notion. George Washington was a strategic man of honor and inner merit which allowed him to be the

reason why he "simply out spied" the British.

E-mail interview by the author. Email. January 27, 2020. Alexander Rose was known for his works of historic research on the Culper Spy Ring, including his book, Washington's Spies: The Story of America's First Spy Ring. Throughout our interview, which took place through the communication of e-mail, he provided a new perspective of the motives and attitudes of the members of this espionage ring. Rose mentioned the different intentions for joining the spy ring, most the ideal of "patriotism to money to faith to just wanting to have a bit of excitement". He emphasized how although some agents were recruited, many volunteered to join risking their lives and reputation. Being one of the most sufficient spy rings at the time, Alexander Rose remarks the desire need of espionage for General Washington in order to gain the lead in the war. Washington was described as a "natural spy", having qualities of a cautious and sensible man. He added that George Washington would have preferred to operate in the war and win without a spy ring, but realized that he was put in a situation where he was left with tempting and necessary choice. The Culper Spy Ring worked in times and place where Washington "had no ears or eyes", highlighting their works of intelligence on British movements at their headquarters in New York.

"The Execution of Nathan Hale, 1776." Eyewitness to History. Accessed April 1, 2020. http://www.eyewitnesstohistory.com/hale.htm.

Going behind enemy lines was the true barrier for the spies of the Culper Spy Ring. All the spies, such as Nathan Hale, were volunteering and breaking their fears to spy and it is what is truly admirable about their jobs. In this article, our group was able to understand Nathan Hale's story and how it affected Washington and his friends. The article shows how Washington knew after Hale's death that he needed a ring to win the war. He was deeply saddened by Hale's death but knew he had to move forward and win the war for Hale and out of patriotism.

"George Washington, Spymaster." In Mount Vernon. https://www.mountvernon.org/george-washington/the- revolutionary-war/spying-and-espionage/george-washington-spymaster/.

George Washington was often referred to the "Spymaster" during the Culper Spy Ring. He managed and planned the works of the Culper Spy Ring behind the scenes. He began gathering ordinary people of the colonies to carry out secret tasks that leaked information of the British. The British troops were much more well equipped, trained, and funded than the American army. Washington came to realize that they would be swept on the battlefield, and that it would take espionage to outsmart the British. He interacted and operated with Benjamin Tallmadge, who was also called by his code name, "John Bolton". They worked together and with the ring to complete complicated tasks without the British's knowledge. He found different ways to transfer information in advantage for the Americans by utilizing invisible ink, spreading false information, and using a code book to communicate. Washington put his life on the line and worked with the spy ring seriously with commitment. His dedication led to the success of the works of the Culper Spy Ring and the victory in the American Revolution.

Gilgoff, Dan, and Nancy Bentrup. "Washington's Web." Academic Search Premier. http://web.b.ebscohost.com/ehost/detail/detail?vid=4&sid=144875af-871c-4800-86de- sessmgr04&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#db=aph&AN=8948516.

This article helped our group understand the obstacles the Culper Spy Ring faced during the Revolutionary War. The text states, "Everything about being a spy went against the code of a gentleman," says Andrew Batten, executive director of Museum in New York, the site of Washington's farewell address to the Army in 1783." Spying was completely frowned upon in that society and people were hesitant to volunteer because of this. This article also helped explained how the information would travel throughout the Culper Spy Ring. It explained how Robert Townshend would collect information, then Austin Roe would collect that information secretly and transport it to Abraham Woodhull. Caleb Brewster also ferried correspondence to Benjamin Tallmadge, the ringleader of the spies. Lastly, Tallmadge delivered intelligence to Washington and Washington would now have information on British plans and movements which helped him in the war.

Gilje, Paul A. "Tallmadge, Benjamin." Encyclopedia of Revolutionary America, Facts On File, 2010. American History, online.infobase.com/Auth/Index?aid=18143&itemid=WE52&articleId=501591. Accessed 6 Feb. 2020.

This source recounts the life of Benjamin Tallmadge, and his contributions as a Patriot. He started his patriot movements as he joined the Connecticut regiment in the Revolutionary War. He continued to serve for four years in the Continental Army during the times of major battles. As he rose in power and rank in the American army, he was then requested by George Washington to manage intelligence that soon became an espionage ring called the "Culper Spy Ring". His main contributions are highlighted as involving in finding out about Benedict Arnold's betrayal, and the capture of John André. As the war concluded with a triumph. Tallmadge returned to his daily life, and invested in banking and oversea trades. He soon then joined into politics, and was elected to Congress in 1801. It was 1817 when Benjamin retired, and soon dies on March 7,1835.

Goldar, British. The Unfortunate Death of Major André (Adjudant General to the English Army) at Head Quarters in New York, Octr 2, 1780, who was found within the American Lines in the character of a Spy. Illustration. Accessed January 31, 2020. https://artgallery.yale.edu/collections/objects/30184.

British Goldar's engraving portraying British spy John André's death is critical for the development of our play and to maintain historical accuracy. Due to the Culper Spy Ring's prominent role in the discovery that John André was a spy, our play was going to include a scene of his hanging. Goldar's engraving provides the scenery, how people were hanged, John André's attire, and where he was hung from. This critical information from the painting allows our play to have a more precise depiction of how both Nathan Hale and John André were hung. In the painting, John André is seen with a cloth around his mouth, a man coming down a ladder after cutting the rope, John André tied across his neck to a wooden rectangular post, and three men watching his demise. In addition, the engraving was done in the 18th century which conveys its credibility. This information was not offered to us through sundry sources and gave us a visual representation of how traitors were hung during the Revolutionary War.

Hanc, John. "A Long Island House Holds the Story of Washington's Spy Ring." The New York Times. Last modified March 12, 2019. Accessed April 10, 2020. https://www.nytimes.com/2019/03/12/arts/raynham-hall-revolution-spies.html.

John Hanc's article "A Long Island House Holds the Story of Washington's Spy Ring," genuinely portrays the significance of Raynham Hall in Oyster Bay, New York and other individuals such as Sally Townsend who played paramount roles within the Culper Spy Ring. Sally Townsend, Robert Townsend's brother, bought the house and lived there with her father Samuel Townsend. Samuel Townsend was apprehended after the Patriots defeat in the Battle of Brooklyn and consequently had to give his loyalty to the king. This could be a large factor in which Colonel Simcoe of the Queen's Rangers chose to reside there "to keep an eye on Samuel". John André also visited Raynham Hall which could subsequently have led to Robert Townsend's additional reports. Another interesting piece of information that we obtained was of another American spy. The text states, "If so, they were watching the wrong Townsend, although Robert, who visited the house frequently during the war, was only one of several spies under this roof: Ms. Bellerjeau has found a letter confirming that while he was at Raynham Hall, André also met with a mysterious American agent in the service of the British." Robert Townsend was able to break through the barrier of the British in his house by providing sufficient intelligence without their knowledge. In essence, this article further developed our research on Robert Townsend, and Raynham Hall's contributions to the espionage ring.

Hamilton: An American Musical. Performed by Lin-Manuel Miranda. 2015, compact disc.

From this song, our group was able to learn Hamilton's role in helping Washington. The song's title being "The Room Where It Happens," our group was able to learn that Hamilton knew of all of Washington's plans and was knowledgeable of the Culper Spy Ring. He worked along with Washington to assist his plans in leadership.

Hattem, Michael D. "New York." Mount Vernon. Accessed March 17, 2020. https://www.mountvernon.org/library/digitalhistory/digital-encyclopedia/article/new-york/.

"Throughout the rest of the war, Washington longed to recapture New York City and avenge his humiliating defeat," the article states. In Mount Vernon's article "New York," it conveys the importance of the city and the rationale for why General Washington had focused his time on it. George Washington had been through New York several times to confer with Governor William Shirley, to enroll his step- son in King's College, and after accepting position as leader of the Continental Army preceding the American Revolution. During the Revolutionary War, Washington understood how paramount the Hudson River was because he knew if the British controlled it they could split the colonies into two. According to the text, "After months of preparations on both sides, the British invaded Long Island at the end of August. Due in part to Washington's tactical naïveté, the British outflanked and cornered his army at Brooklyn Heights, across the from Manhattan. Washington engineered a daring escape across the river for his army under the cover of night and a timely fog. When the British charged the camp the next morning, the Americans were gone." Throughout the remainder of the war,

Washington wanted to regain New York and used intelligence from the Culper Spy Ring to fulfill this aspiration. He had hoped that using espionage could break through the barrier of British occupation in New York and even used Nathan Hale prior to the Culper Spy Ring however he was apprehended and hung. The spy rang operated in and around New York City with much success and gathered vital information that aided in the Patriots’ victory.

History.com Editors. "The Culper Spy Ring." America: History and Life. Last modified March 19, 2010. https://www.history.com/topics/american-revolution/culper-spy-ring.

This article helps give our group how the Culper Spy Ring was created, the dangers of spying, and the achievements of it. Even though General George Washington's getting the information for New York British Troop movements, there was still no reliable network on the Patriot side. In 1778, Benjamin Tallmadge established a small group of intelligent men and woman from his hometown, Lon Island known as the Culper Spy Ring. In September 1776, Nathan Hale got sentenced to be hanged without a trial in New York. When he was on his way back from the regiment after gathering the British lines, when he was caught spying for the rebels in the Revolutionary War. George Washington appointed Tallmadge the head of the secret service, and invited trustworthy people who had code names as spies. Overall, the Culper Spy Ring achieved more than any other American or British intelligence network during the war, and credited with uncovering information involving the treasonous correspondence between Benedict Arnold and John André. This article helps us understand the basic information on the Culper Spy Ring as well as developing an understanding about the spies, and how they had to risk their lives for it.

History of American Women (blog). http://www.womenhistoryblog.com/2011/12/agent-355.html.

Although women in the espionage rings were not highly recognized, this source highlights the works of women and the great role they played in the American history. Anna Strong is credited for transfer of information that was said done through the pattern of her clothesline. This source also mentions the role women played in the exchange of information John André who was soon known to be a spy from the British. They say it was speculated that Agents 355 was the spy who passed critical information about Benedict Arnold of his acts of treason along with John André who was captured with the maps of West Point and a pass signed by Arnold. The possible idea is introduced that the agent had a special connection with Robert Townsend. These theories were taken into consideration to understand the possible works of women and the role they were said to have held in the Revolutionary War. It opened a new perspective of espionage during this time, and the barriers regarding their gender and place in society they faced and broke to perform their tasks.

"Jonas Hawkins Explained." Everything Explained. Accessed April 1, 2020. https://everything.explained.today/Jonas_Hawkins/.

Jonas Hawkins, being another spy in the Culper Spy Ring, was also a very integral part in the development of the ring. Hawkins was able to be a courier and help with the early operations between December 1778 and the summer of 1779. Hawkins had to undergo a tremendous amount of stress and became increasingly anxious about British patrols. His anxiousness and Townsend being on the breaking point with Hawkins stopped his courier services for the ring. Our group was able to learn from this how much stress and anxiety the spies were really put to endure. Hawkins was pushed to his breaking point and he really couldn't handle the stress.

Kate, Foster. "The Culper Gang." Accessed February 12, 2020. https://clements.umich.edu/exhibit/spy-letters- of-the-american-revolution/stories-of-spies/culper-gang/.

"Tallmadge was to take all precautions that this ring would be extremely secret; in fact, it was so secret that Washington did not even know who the men in the spy ring were. Robert Townsend, Aaron Woodhull, Austin Roe, Anna Strong, and Caleb Brewster made up this ring, and the code name for it was Samuel Culper." This source helped describe the true covert actions of the Culper ring. The specific route the letters traveled was described explicitly in this source. Robert Townsend gathered information from his newspaper store and Austin Roe would drop by his store and drop of classified intelligence on a letter. Townsend would read it and took it to Setauket where Abraham Woodhull would receive it. Woodhull transported it to Caleb Brewster who gave the letter to Benjamin Tallmadge, the spymaster. Tallmadge would give the letter to Washington and Washington would be further on the way of breaking all impediments placed from the British. But on this route, there was always a high risk of the British getting a hold of the letters. This happened during the recruitment of George Higday. A letter from Washington to Tallmadge dated June 27, 1779 states, "There is a man on York Island, living on or near the North River, of the name of George Higday who I am told hath given signal proofs of his attachment to us." This letter was caught by the British and George Higday's safety was compromised. Washington took this close call to heart and never wanted to risk an incident close to this. Because of this, Washington knew he had to find a solution. They then started using invisible ink. Not only this, but the spies had another measure of security. Tallmadge created a codebook. It was a numerical code that could be used in letters. This code was called the Culper Code and consisted of 764 code words. Four copies of this book were made, but only one to this day still exists. This code allowed for the members to understand the letters, but no British soldiers could understand these secret letters. This souce, overall, gave our group a great view of the transportation of information in the Culper Spy Ring, the major risks of being a spy, and how Washington and Tallmadge broke these barriers all for freedom for the country.

Kersten, Katherine. "George Washington's Character." Center of the American Experiment. Last modified April 4, 2011. Accessed March 30, 2020. https://www.americanexperiment.org/article/george-washingtons- character/.

"Washington's life was marked by moral striving. He had a fiery temper, which he controlled through constant self-discipline. He had a love of honor and regard, which he strove to hold in check by courteous attention to all, both high and low," the article states. The article "George Washington's Character" by Katherine Kersten truly develops on the barrier of morality that George Washington had to surmount with the utilization of the Culper Spy Ring and an in-depth description of his character. "As Brookhiser says, morals and manners were "the way he governed himself," concerning George Washington. The section "A life of moral striving" embodies that he had built his life around honor and character. Espionage was considered ignominious yet the Culper Spy Ring and other intelligence operations during the war were still used against the British. Washington lived a life of integrity and service, subsequently understanding the ramifications of using spying as his clandestine weapon to win the war. This article genuinely portrays how Washington's character was a barrier in itself that he had to break through. He had "a belief in the dignity of every man" yet he knew that if the spies were caught they would be apprehended and hung as disreputable traitors. He sacrificed his own character and identity such as the spies to procure liberation for America. In brief, this article was paramount for us to understand the barrier that George Washington had to remove of his disposition to remove the greater despotic obstruction of injustice of British rule.

Kilmeade, Brian, and Don Yaeger. George Washington's Secret Six: The Spy Ring That Saved the American Revolution. 3rd ed. New York, NY: Sentinel, 2016.

The book, George Washington's Secret Six, provided our group with one of the most detailed descriptions of the Culper Spy Ring. From the breakdown of every thought of every member of the ring and the thorough examination of correspondence between spies such as Robert Townsend and Benjamin Tallmadge, and Don Yaeger presented a plethora of research as they provided a comprehensive retelling of the story of the Culper Spy Ring and their major accomplishments. These authors described four main accomplishments: the rescuing of French troops entering the colonies, the exposing of a British counterfeit currency, the uncovering of Benedict Arnold's plan to surrender West Point to the British, and the finding of British naval codes that ultimately led to the success of the French navy during the . These 4 successes confirmed to our group the necessity of the Culper Spy Ring during the Revolutionary War. Without the ring, Washington would not have been able to obtain information and be a step ahead of the British. The primary source letters from the spies that are included in this book show this necessity. When the spy ring briefly disbanded in the late 1770's, Washington felt a sense of insecurity and lack of knowledge. This showed to our group the heavy reliance Washington placed on the Culper Spy Ring. Not only this, but the book highlighted every single spy that contributed to this ring. It highlighted the roles of Amos Underhill and Lydia Darragh. Another spy that was included in the book was Agent 355. Agent 355, a lady spy, was a crucial leader in the ring yet her identity is still yet to be discovered. This book included some theories of who she could be such as Anna strong and Peggy Arnold. It is important for us to understand how many people's lives were put at risk for freedom. The book shows how espionage put Robert Townsend and Abraham Woodhull at

great anxiety and stress every living moment because of the thought of getting caught. These spies were truly risking their lives and this book helped our group understand their fear of this, but how their sheer determination to win the war motivated them to spy. Overall, this book, George Washington's Secret Six, was an incredibly important secondary source in fulfilling our group's desire for an in depth timeline and story of the Culper Spy Ring.

Knight, John. "The Death and Resurrection of Major John André." Journal of the American Revolution, August 14, 2018. Accessed February 6, 2020. https://allthingsliberty.com/2018/08/the-death-and-resurrection- of-major-john-andre/.

John André's death that we briefed in our script is elucidated in the article "The Death and Resurrection of Major John André." The information that the article provided us from John Knight gave us the perspective that John André did not want to die a spy's death, but a soldier's death. This primary theme in the article that is provided portrays that for both the loyalists and Patriots, "It was an ignominious fate." The theme "Breaking Barriers" is depicted in the article because it shows collectively the barrier that the spy ring broke- fear. John André "spent his final days pleading to be shot rather than suffer the disgrace of the gallows." The members of the Culper Spy Ring were willing to risk their lives for the cause of liberty. In addition, another highlighted theme was the impact of the Culper Spy Ring had on the patriotic success defeating the British during the Revolutionary War. This can be conveyed through the statement that the discovery is "having prevented in all probability our suffering one of the severest strokes that could have been meditated against us."

Lengel, Edward. 2016. "Patriots Under Cover." American History 51 (2): 26–31. http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=fth&AN=113735705&site=ehost-live.

"Patriots Under Cover" written by Edward Lengel was used for our group to learn information about Abraham Woodhull and Robert Townsend's pseudonym. Abraham Woodhull was dubbed as Samuel Culper Sr. and Robert Townsend as Samuel Culper Jr. It also develops on George Washington's perspective of the Culper Spy Ring. This can be depicted through the quote, "Washington considered the Culper ring's methods dangerous and unreliable." The route of the messages that the spy ring sent was that they "traveled 55 miles eastward from the city to Setauket, Long Island. From there they were sent by boat across enemy-patrolled to Fairfield, Connecticut. A then carried them northeast to New Haven before turning westward to Danbury and finally headquarters. The ride increased another 100 miles when Washington transferred his of operations from Fredericksburg, N.Y., to Middlebrook, N.J. Many dispatches were discovered by the British or destroyed by nervous couriers." This article also assisted us to find resources for surviving reports in the Washington Papers which are primary sources. In addition to surviving reports, there are also letters scribed to various leaders such as Benjamin Tallmadge. It helped us understand our topic, because it allowed us to understand the allied forces, and different people's position within the spy ring.

Lennon, Troy. "Spies and turncoats" [Spies and turncoats]. Daily Telegraph (Sydney, Australia), July 7, 2003. http://web.a.ebscohost.com/ehost/detail/detail?vid=39&sid=b5329ae2-bd7e-4e3e-b2b6- f4b61aabe4de%40sessionmgr4006&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#db=nfh&AN=2003 07071052782741.

The American Revolution was the first chance the Americans had at espionage. After the British had been spying, Washington knew he had to spy to win. Nathan Hale had volunteered to spy but was sadly caught and hanged. The story of Hale's death inspired others to lay their lives on the line in espionage operations, which had once been considered ungentlemanly and dishonorable. The spies were willing to risk their lives for freedom. This article also taught us about another spy in the ring, Lydia Darragh. In September of 1777, Lydia was ordered to vacate her home from British officers. She had asked one of her cousins in the British army to try to get her back in her home. She was allowed to stay only if the British could hold meetings in her house. During one of the meetings in December of 1777, she hid herself and overheard plans of a British assault on American troops at a place called Whitemarsh. The assault was being planned based on information from spies in the American ranks. Darragh took notes on troop numbers and managed to sneak back to bed. The next morning she asked if she could go and get flour when really she was giving her new information to an American officer. The British were shocked when the Americans found out about their assault but Darragh denied all accusations.

Library of Congress. Accessed November 2019. http://www.loc.gov/teachers/classroommaterials/presentationsandactivities/presentations/timeline/amrv.

This article explains in chronological order the failures and successes of the American Revolution. It clarifies all the intentions and plans of the battles between the British and the Patriots. The text taught us the results and victories of the crucial battles that led to the outcome of the American Revolution, such as the battle of Trenton, Princeton, and Yorktown. The article emphasizes the key role of the battle of Yorktown to the outcome of the war. It determined the future of the country. It eventually led to the peace treaty between British and the colonies in November 30, 1782.

Mandresh, Jason. "Austin Roe - Washington's Spy on Horseback." Founder of the Day. Accessed April 8, 2020. https://www.founderoftheday.com/founder-of-the-day/austin-roe.

Jason Mandresh's article titled "Austin Roe - Washington's Spy on Horseback," conveys Austin Roe's critical role in the Culper Spy Ring that is often overlooked in present-day society. Austin Roe was an owner of a tavern in Setauket, New York; his role in the espionage ring was "to ride 55 miles back and forth to New York City, where he would retrieve intelligence from his man on the inside." Austin Roe was late to appointments, and spent a profound amount of money, subsequently receiving criticism from Robert Townsend and Abraham Woodhull. However, Benjamin Tallmadge understood that these faults were due to the distance and danger of his mission. Benjamin Tallmadge writes, "obliged always to ride to New York…his expenses on the road and in the city for himself and his horse must be very considerable." Succeeding the Revolutionary War, George Washington took a tour to Long Island where he stopped at Austin Roe's tavern. Washington praised the tavern in his diary, and the event portrays George Washington's gratefulness for the spy ring. Austin Roe had to overcome several impediments

which briefed before were the distance and danger of his extensive trip. In essence, Austin Roe's role in the Culper Spy Ring allowed the spy ring to successfully be the hidden army of individuals that aided America to liberty.

"Maps." mountvernon.org. Accessed February 24, 2020. https://www.mountvernon.org/preservation/maps/.

"As a surveyor and military man, George Washington created and used maps throughout his life. Access our growing collection of maps pertaining to Washington, Mount Vernon, and the world he lived in." Mountvernon.org provided us with George Washington's maps that he utilized of Mount Vernon, his surveying, the French and Indian War, and different plans for the Revolutionary War. These maps were paramount to the development of our backdrop because in several of the scenes including George Washington, the backdrop is corresponding to his tent or where he was living. The maps in the Revolutionary War section of the website provided us with props we can include on the backdrop to add to the realism of the scenes. The maps included in this section are the New York Campaign in 1776, the Battle of Trenton, the Battle of Second Trenton, the phases, the of 1781, the siege of Yorktown, Boston, plans for Princeton, the Battle of Germantown, the Battle of Yorktown, the Reconnaissance of New York in July 1781, and the morning and afternoon of the Battle of Monmouth. The maps briefed above will be instrumental in the development of our play along as when the scene is taking place.

McBurney, Christian M. "The Culper Spy Ring Was Not the First to Warn the French at Newport." Journal of the American Revolution. Last modified December 9, 2014. Accessed April 11, 2020. https://allthingsliberty.com/2014/12/the-culper-spy-ring-was-not-the-first-to-warn-the-french-at- newport/.

Christian McBurney's article, "The Culper Spy Ring Was Not the First to Warn the French at Newport," provides a conflicting perspective about one of the Culper Spy Ring's largest feats. Based on the article, Colonel Samuel B. Webb on the sloop Gates and Colonel Henry Braddock had reports preceding the Culper Spy Ring's intelligence about the probable British attack in Newport. The Culper Spy Ring's intelligence from Robert Townsend which was delivered to Alexander Hamilton was given to General Heath, one of the allied commanders at Newport, who "took the threat even more seriously and issued requests for all of the militia of Rhode Island and even more militia from Massachusetts to gather at Tiverton or ." Moreover, several historians credit the Culper Spy Ring with causing General Henry Clinton to abandon his Newport plans by preparing for a diversionary attack in New York. In contrast, the text states, "In fact, according to the historian who has studied the matter most closely, the British decision to call off the attack was due more to the lack of coordination between Clinton and the senior admiral of the in , Marriott Arbuthnot." The article later emphasizes that the Culper Spy Ring, and other intelligence operations all "played a substantial role in thwarting the British attack in Newport." After the allied commanders received several sources of intelligence, they reinforced their defenses subsequently noticed by British observers and loyalist spies. Consequently, these reports also led to Admiral Arbuthnot not cooperating with General Clinton, leading the attack on Newport from the British to be called off. In conclusion, this article brought a conflicting perspective conveying that the Culper Spy Ring and other individuals that provided intelligence should be credited

with saving the Franco-American alliance from probable defeat.

Mount Vernon. https://www.mountvernon.org/library/digitalhistory/digital-encyclopedia/article/benedict- arnold/.

Benedict Arnold, a crucial man of the Revolutionary War was held responsible for many of the war's events. Due to frustrations of oppositions he faced by the Continental Army, Arnold eventually returned to the British side while serving the American army. Before his betrayal, he served many accomplishments in his days as an American soldier and came upon multiple occasions in his adulthood. He began his life to a prominent family until they soon met financial struggles. Becoming a businessman in his later years, due to the conflicting Stamp and Sugar Act, he joined the . Soon, he was soon elected to become the captain of the Connecticut militia as he then rose in position as the war passed. This source emphasizes that during his journey serving in the army, money was the only thing Arnold cared for. Later, as he was offered to the position of a Major General, his resignation to receive this post was soon denied by General Washington. This showed the trust and worth Benedict Arnold held for George Washington, and the impact it had when Washington was alerted about how he became a traitor.

Museum of the American Revolution. Accessed March 16, 2016. https://www.amrevmuseum.org/read-the- revolution/history/washingtons-spies.

"Washington's Spies" which includes excerpts of Alexander Rose's book with we had an interview with goes into greater description of certain aspects of the espionage ring. To begin, Benjamin Tallmadge had assistance from key figures for the creation of the espionage ring. The article states, ""[Benjamin] Tallmadge had learned from Nathaniel Sackett how to disguise agents as enemy sympathizers using realistic cover stories, and from John Parke that a spy could nestle within the beast of an unsuspecting foe for months, perhaps years, at a time–provided he enjoyed a secure chain of communication back to base." Moreover, the article provides further information on Setauket; Setauket was a coastal city in Suffolk county where Abraham Woodhull, Caleb Brewster, and Benjamin Tallmadge had resided in allowing them to have trust for one another. One paramount section of the article was "The fear of being found out," because it developed on the barrier or trepidation that the members of the spy ring had to surmount and how they were able to do that. "On October 29, 1778, after having sworn his oath of loyalty to His Majesty, Woodhull dispatched his first 'Samuel Culper' letter. Hitherto he had passed on intelligence verbally for fear of incriminating documents falling into the enemy's hands, so Tallmadge had assured him that none but he and Brewster knew his real name, and that, if captured, they would destroy the letters before surrendering," the text states conveying Abraham Woodhull's fear. Abraham Woodhull had to go to New York to receive news which led to intense anxiety due to the British patrols and Tory plunderers along the path coupled with his utmost fear of leaving his parents alone. Abraham Woodhull was able to break through this barrier of fear through the methods adapted by the spies including dead drops, well-crafted back stories, and more. In brief, this article provided us with vital information regarding how the Culper Spy Ring broke barriers and background information about its inception.

"Nathan Hale is Hanged for Spying – 1776." World History. Last modified August 21, 2017. Accessed March 13, 2020. https://worldhistory.us/american-history/nathan-hale-is-hanged-for-spying-1776.php.

Nathan Hale spoke, the day of his hanging, "I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country." When analyzing this quote, our group has realized the true barrier the Culper Spy Ring was willing to break. These spies had to break through the fear built inside and from society all for their country. Nathan Hale was willing to risk anything and wished he even had another life to lose for his country. Even more that this article clarified was how Hale was the first to volunteer for the espionage task from his sense of patriotism. We were able to learn about the specifics of Hale's mission and how he was caught because he accidentally revealed too much information about himself.

Piascik, Andy. "Caleb Brewster and the Culper Spy Ring." Connecticuthistory.org. Last modified August 26, 2019. Accessed April 7, 2020. https://connecticuthistory.org/caleb-brewster-and-the-culper-spy-ring/.

In the article "Caleb Brewster and the Culper Spy Ring," it provides information concerning Caleb Brewster and his intentions in joining the espionage ring. As a young boy, Caleb Brewster aspired to be a sailor and subsequently procured a whaling boat while young. The text states that, "By the time hostilities between colonial revolutionaries and the British Crown escalated in 1775, he was an expert seaman. He was especially familiar with the many intricacies of the northern Long Island coastline, as well as the 18-mile stretch north to Connecticut, particularly Fairfield and what is now Bridgeport." The article additionally portrays Caleb Brewster's role in the spy ring based on these traits; he transferred intelligence across the Long Island Sound to Connecticut and came back. The article also conveyed a critical barrier that Caleb Brewster had to surmount. The impediment of the British knowing "his name, they knew he lived and operated in and around Setauket, and some accounts indicate they knew he was the primary courier between Long Island and Connecticut," was overcome by Brewster because he was never captured, and stayed safe. His characteristics of bravery, courage, his seamanship, and his familiarity with the land enabled him to be a critical member of the Culper Spy Ring consequently aiding America in its fight for liberation.

Raphael, Ray. "George Washington's Five Rules for Waging War with Honor." American History 44, no. 6 (February 2010): 30-35. MasterFILE Elite (47026444).

Ray Raphael's article, was in all likelihood, the most paramount secondary source article that guided us in our research. Her development on the Gentlemanly Rules of War in regard to Colonel Benedict Arnold was corroboration that George Washington broke significant barriers within the Culper Spy Ring. Although the rules of engagement, were more explicitly addressed to officers or soldiers when behaving in foreign lands, this is analogous to the Culper Spy Ring entering British Lines which were "foreign" to them in perspective. These five rules corresponded to the ignominious reputation of espionage. Of the five rules, the members of the ring broke the barrier in character that ironically George Washington had both created and decimated with the creation of the spy ring. The first rule of engagement was "Don't assume you're welcome." General Washington remarks, "You are by every means in your Power to endeavor to discover the real Sentiments of the Canadians towards our Cause, and particularly as to this Expedition, ever bearing in Mind, that if they are averse to it and win not

cooperate, it must fail of success." Although, the members of the spy ring were certain that their actions were punishable by death by the British, they continued to spy for the Patriots cause knowing they weren't welcome. The fifth rule of engagement states, "Withdraw if your objectives are unattainable." General Washington briefs, "If unforeseen Difficulties should arise or if the Weather shou'd become so severe as to render it hazardous to proceed in your own Judgment and that of your principal Officers (whom you are to consult), in that Case you are to return, giving me as early Notice as possible, that I may give you such Assistance as may be necessary." George Washington's words translate to that if Benedict Arnold was in danger, he was supposed to gain assistance by George Washington. Notwithstanding that rule, the members of the ring were continually in danger of being caught, and even as suspicions grew, the patriotism of the members grew stronger and they continued espionage. Raphael candidly depicts one of the most prominent social barriers that the Culper Spy Ring broke; the dishonorable reputation of espionage or breaking the gentlemanly restrictions that were upon the citizens.

Rather, John. "Remembering a Spy Master at Home." New York Times, December 15, 1985, 11. https://nyti.ms/29pPMYv.

The secret of an agent's hidden past of espionage was long kept until the discovery by Morton Pennypacker revealed the truth behind his unknown works. This Long Island spy was Samuel Culper Jr. In 1930, the historian uncovered the identity of Samuel Culper Jr. as Robert Townsend. Culper Jr. was known as one of the most active members of the Culper Spy Ring managed by George Washington. Completing his espionage works after the triumph of the Revolutionary War, Townsend wished his position in the war would remain anonymous. Those who knew his true identity of Culper Jr, followed his wish, and his secret remained to his deathbed which soon became over a century and a half. Pennypacker proved this hidden secret by analyzing the handwriting followed by research of the 2 men, which was to be realized one was an alias. His discovery led to a new opening of the secret works of the Culper Spy Ring that assisted in the victory that won America's freedom.

Red7153 (In History). "Culper Spy Ring" ["Timeline of the Culper Spy Ring"]. Timetoast. Last modified 2007. Accessed December 12, 2019. https://www.timetoast.com/timelines/culper-spy-ring-968313f0-771b- 41e5-bd61-02980dd76849.

This timeline explained how Nathan Hale, one of the spies, was hanged for discovered trying to flee into American territory by boat, and on September 22,1776, before his hanging, he said his famous, " I only regret that I have but one life to give for my country". Also, how Tallmadge takes command, and recruits a few more people (his childhood friends). The Culper Spy Ring had a major accomplishment of the prevention of General Clinton's invasion and destruction of the French base in Rhode Island. When Benedict Arnold married a woman of a loyalist family in early April of 1779, André took advantage of his loyalist connections. His ship was destroyed which cause him to travel by land over rebel territory to reach British land. Later on, André was captured, and found guilty as a spy on September 29th. This timeline helps us gather more information of what spies could undergo for the development of our project. Also, it creates a better understanding of the different aspects of the spies in the Culper Spy Ring.

Rose, P. K. "The Founding Fathers of American Intelligence" [The Founding Fathers of American Intelligence]. Central Intelligence Agency. Accessed March 19, 2020. https://www.cia.gov/library/center-for-the- study-of-intelligence/csi-publications/books-and-monographs/the-founding-fathers-of-american- intelligence/art-1.html.

Due to modern day intelligence operations being managed by the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), it was essential for us to understand their viewpoint on the Culper Spy Ring and espionage during the Revolutionary War. To begin, the article provided us with 3 central figures, George Washington as a collection of foreign intelligence, John Jay as a founding father of counter intelligence, and Benjamin Franklin's efforts through covert action. In 1997, the CIA established three new meeting rooms that were named after these individuals conveying how paramount their impact and legacy is and how it has affected us today as we previously learned through our interview with Ken Daigler. With regard to George Washington, the article gave us information regarding his efforts to procure intelligence prior to the Revolutionary War. The text states, "Washington's first experience in intelligence collection came in 1753, when he was 21 years old. The British colonial government sent him to the Territory to gather information about French military capabilities." He found newfound success, but nevertheless during the French and Indian War he suffered a major defeat at because his commander General Edward Braddock did not gather intelligence which is when George Washington candidly understood the importance of gathering intelligence. Subsequently, during the Revolutionary War, George Washington spent 10 percent of his military funding on intelligence. Specifically, this article provided us with other spies during the Revolutionary War that aided the under equipped, under staffed, and underfunded American army. The Knowlton Rangers was the first American military intelligence organization, in which Nathan Hale was recruited from. Other spies include, "James Rivington, a prominent Tory newspaper publisher; Joshua Mersereau, his son John, and another relative; Hercules Mulligan and his brother Hugh; Army Captains (and brothers) John and Baker Hendricks; and two former counterintelligence agents--Nathaniel Sackett and retired Army Capt. Elijah Hunter. The latter became close to both General Clinton and Royal Governor ." John Honeyman and Lewis J. Castigin additionally aided the Patriots in victory during the war as well. When the Culper Spy Ring was briefed, it was stated as "the most professional of Washington's agent networks," due to their elaborate methods that they obtained as they developed. The Culper Spy Ring was able to break barriers in terms of intelligence as having a profound impact on espionage and its development over time. Their clandestine services along with the many spies of the Revolutionary War although primarily go unnoticed, can be depicted in the freedom America cherishes as a country today. "And, for the most part, these activities were hidden from public view; the Founding Fathers understood the importance of secrecy for conducting effective intelligence operations. Then, as now, it was clear to American decision makers that skilled and motivated intelligence officers, led by people of vision and courage, are essential to the security and well-being of the United States," the article states.

Schellhammer, Michael. "Abraham Woodhull: The Spy Named Samuel Culper." Journal of the American Revolution. Last modified May 19, 2014. Accessed April 1, 2020. https://allthingsliberty.com/2014/05/abraham-woodhull-the-spy-named-samuel-culper/#_edn2.

The Journal of the American Revolution's article "Abraham Woodhull: The Spy Named Samuel Culper" provided us with an in-depth description of Abraham Woodhull's operations, other barriers that the Culper Spy Ring overcame, and developing on the impediment of trepidation that the individuals in the spy ring had to surmount. Based on the information provided in the article, Abraham Woodhull was a farmer in Setauket where he cared for his elderly parents. His cousin Nathaniel Woodhull was killed in the with whom he was particularly close in relation and contact with. Woodhull was caught for selling produce for hard currency in New York, consequently getting apprehended and going to jail. However, Woodhull got an early release from Connecticut Governor Jonathan Trumbull, and soon later Benjamin Tallmadge a fellow Setauket native visited him and recruited him for spying. The information that we found critical to the development of our research was that Benjamin Tallmadge was the man who convinced Governor Trumbull to give him an early release. This article provided us with paramount research concerning why he supposedly joined the spy ring in addition. The article supposes that Tallmadge could have convinced Woodhull to gather intelligence on the British as an act of retribution for his cousin Nathaniel's death. After Abraham Woodhull joined the spy ring he made a path of loyalty to the king to develop his cover and he recruited his brother in law Amos Underhill and Robert Townsend who was acquaintances with Nathaniel Woodhull. Prior to that, the Culper Spy Ring overcame the barrier that is often overlooked of insufficient means of espionage. The text states, "Nor had the Americans uniformly mastered the techniques of successfully moving in and out of enemy territory. To overcome these problems Washington and Tallmadge envisioned a permanent network of spies that lived behind British lines and communicated their information through coded messages. Tallmadge's recruitment of Woodhull enabled them to put their plans into action." The article also particularly develops on the barrier of anxiety that Woodhull overcame with the methods utilized by the spy ring. "Yet for all of his success, the pressure of spying and leading a double life severely strained Woodhull," Michael Schellhammer writes. Woodhull was living in constant fear and anxiety after several encounters with the British from Kernel Simcoe plundering his father due to his part in patriotic espionage and getting robbed and tormented on his journey to Setauket. Nevertheless, Abraham Woodhull gathered intelligence and recruited Robert Townsend to gather further intelligence. A principal sentence that conveys how the members of the Culper Spy Ring overcame fear and lassitude is, "If Woodhull and Townsend were exhausted they remained dedicated and efficient." Concisely, this article was essential for our understanding of Abraham Woodhull's spying operations, daily life, and character towards risking his life for his country.

Smith, John L., Jr. "9 Rules of Spying That Nathan Hale Failed to Follow." Journal of the American Revolution. Last modified May 21, 2015. Accessed February 27, 2020. https://allthingsliberty.com/2015/05/9-rules- of-spying-that-nathan-hale-failed-to-follow/.

"The job of spying in those early war days was generally looked at as dishonorable, something done by "treasonous scum" and the "scourge of the battlefield."[3] It usually meant using an embedded civilian who was already stationed behind enemy lines to occasionally feed intelligence out. Soldiers, dressed in civilian clothes, were also being used to enter the British-held territory. In New York, Washington had gotten only sketchy results in the value of the intelligence gathered from using informers or spies." John L. Smith's article in the Journal of the American Revolution provides information regarding how the Culper Spy Ring broke the barriers of morality, development on our previous background knowledge of Nathan Hale, and the "Moscow Rules" of Spying. To begin, based on the quote briefed above, the Culper Spy Ring broke through the social barrier of spying considered as dishonorable that Nathan Hale did as well. Moreover, the article provided us with knowledge regarding Nathan Hale because it gave us information on how he was apprehended by Roberts Rogers due to his gullible actions. Finally, Smith provides us with the nine rules of spying that Nathan Hale did not follow consequently leading to his tragic demise including having an inherent deceptive trait, don't attract attention; blend in, travel with forged papers under a cover alias, treat your surveillance area as enemy territory, assume "Murphy's Law" and abort the mission of necessary, don't jeopardize your mission; know when to get out, assume no one is your friend, guard against your own weaknesses, and safeguard your notes using an unbreakable code, in a form instantly discarded. In brief, this article was critical to deepen our understanding on Nathan Hale and how the Culper Spy Ring broke through the principles of society.

"Spies, Dead Drops, and Invisible Ink: An Interview with John Nagy." Mount Vernon. Accessed March 29, 2020. https://www.mountvernon.org/george-washington/the-revolutionary-war/spying-and- espionage/spies-dead-drops-and-invisible-ink/.

John Nagy's interview with Mount Vernon gave us particulars concerning both the British and Patriots intelligence gathering and their impact on modern day espionage operations. Both generals during the Revolutionary War were credited with creating intelligence operations that worked sufficiently to their advantage. The first spy ring from the Patriots was the Mercereaus Ring with Elias Dayton as the senior case officer that we had gained knowledge on with our interview with historian Damien Cregeau. Washington also utilized the Clark Spy Ring in Philadelphia, and eventually the Culper Spy Ring in New York. The article briefs on George Washington's intelligent actions as a spymaster. He cross- checked the intelligence he received from one spy to another’s and always paid his spies in hard currency despite it being low. The British therefore had an advantage due to their abundance allowing them to have more spies against the Patriots. Nevertheless, Washington "was better in the military application of intelligence than the British." George Washington became first known to spying in the inception of his military career in the French and Indian War. He recruited and managed spies while giving misinformation to the French and it is probable that he used a cipher from his general Edward Braddock. The British and the Patriots effectively used invisible ink and codes and ciphers that allowed them to surmount the barrier of getting caught with incriminating papers by the opposing side. A paramount piece of information we procured from this article was the primary impact of the Culper Spy

Ring and other spies during the Revolutionary War. Nagy remarks, "The modern intelligence world still uses most of the intelligence methods from the American Revolution but with more sophistication in its encryption." An FBI agent reportedly used a dead drop 20 times when spying on the Russians, and codes and ciphers are being used today in sundry ways. The article provided us with a broader perspective on intelligence operations during the Revolutionary War and the specifics on their operations also elucidating their impact on the outcome of not only the Revolutionary War, but present-day as well.

"Spy Stories" [Spy Stories]. Mount Vernon. Accessed March 25, 2020. https://www.mountvernon.org/mobile- apps/the-agent-711-revolutionary-spy-adventure-app/spy-stories/.

In the article "Spy Stories" by Mount Vernon, it accurately conveys the methods and their efficiency used by the members of the Culper Spy Ring and other espionage operations during the Revolutionary War. The methods briefed were dead drops, chemical reagents, identifying marks and clothes, military intelligence, codes and ciphers, couriers, and secret signals. The Culper Spy Ring utilized all of these methods with the exception of identifying marks and clothes sufficiently making their actions more clandestine. When Robert Townsend was in New York, a courier would gather his intelligence from a dead drop Townsend placed his intelligence in. The courier would place that intelligence in a dead drop in Abraham Woodhull's farm, who would in turn give the intelligence to Caleb Brewster via dead drop which portrays how they used both couriers and dead drops. Another example of how the Culper Spy Ring utilized the methods provided is with codes and ciphers. "Benjamin Tallmadge developed the Culper Code Book to encode and translate intelligence gathered by the Culper Spy Ring. This cipher substituted numbers, ranging from 1 to 764, for key words used in correspondence," the text states. The code book Benjamin Tallmadge was paramount to the operations of the Culper Spy Ring alleviating the trepidation of the spies. Moreover, based on a family story Anna Strong supposedly used secret signals by hanging a black petticoat and white handkerchiefs to relay what dead drop Caleb Brewster could gather intelligence from. The methods used by the Culper Spy Ring was the primary reason how they overcame the barriers they faced of fear and pressure because with its utilization came more discreet functioning. This article provided us with essential information concerning the methods that the Culper Spy Ring adapted and its success towards the espionage ring's development.

"Spy Techniques of the Revolutionary War." In Mount Vernon. https://www.mountvernon.org/george- washington/the-revolutionary-war/spying-and-espionage/spy-techniques-of-the-revolutionary-war/.

Within the Culper Spy Ring, unique strategies were necessary to transfer information secretly and complete the given task. Code letter and ciphers were just one way. This technique was used so that data was only understood to the ones it was meant to be shared with through codes. This method was one of the most utilized ways by the spy ring, and the Culper Code book holds the codes used in letters and documents. In addition, spies used invisible ink on letters and documents with a combination of sulfate and water. The secret writing could be revealed by heat or a . They soon adapted the solution of James Jay where he used tannic , and it was the supply to many spies and colonists as well. Mask letters were also used by the Culper Spy Ring by sending a letter and a separate paper in a shaped template to reveal the true meaning of the message. The letter and the "mask" were often sent separately to avoid suspicion.

Stoermer, Taylor. Telephone interview by the author. Rosa International Middle School, Cherry Hill, NJ. January 17, 2020.

In our interview with Taylor Stoermer, he introduced a different perspective of the Culper Spy Ring and provided us with both helpful information on espionage and resources. Mr. Stoermer briefed that the spy ring had not broken barriers, but had closed them instead, while bringing together an idea and goal at the same time not knowing anyone's name or identity. One of the most beneficial pieces of information that he gave us was that the Culper Spy Ring was about a community beyond who they were as individuals and their commitment to the idea of American independence and to help achieve that goal. He expressed that nobody died because nobody knew each other. In translation, they were giving up their identity to achieve a broader idea of better glory and a country. Mr. Stoermer remarked that they were, "sacrificing the known to make a better unknown." In response to the question regarding why the members of the spy ring risked their lives, he explained that there were a wide range of possibilities and we are never going to know. He described that they made a choice that laid risks. Moreover, he elucidated on Benjamin Tallmadge's connection with Nathan Hale who revealed his identity in a pub while drunk. Benjamin Tallmadge was always thinking about Nathan Hale and that was what inspired him to work in the Culper Spy Ring. Tallmadge did not want anyone else to die after Nathan Hale's death. Mr. Stoermer delineated on John André's death and its connection with Benjamin Tallmadge. He explained that in Tallmadge's memoir in a few days Tallmadge believed hanging was wrong because he connected with John André and he died with purpose. In addition, he explained the characteristics of George Washington. He told us that he had great balance, he was a complicated guy, and he was not a man of actions. Washington's idea of honor was being true to his conviction of liberty and freedom. Washington also didn't have emotional flexibility; he was close to only one part of the spy correspondence and he didn't know what to do with it. George Washington accepted his trust in Benjamin Tallmadge for the development of the spy ring. According to the interview, the Culper Spy Ring only impacted a "broader relation." In contrast to our interview with Mr. Cregeau, Mr. Stoermer informed us that the Dayton Ring was not an actual spy ring that did not figure out about the French in Newport before the Culper Spy Ring. In terms of our play, Mr. Stoermer gave us helpful guidance such as to connect with the audience with a play, and to include Washington's concern about the Culper Spy Ring, Tallmadge learning of Hale's death and him being conflicted, John André, and Washington only knowing the identity of Benjamin Tallmadge. Mr. Stoermer provided us with potential contacts such as Dove Cameron, her mother, and Olivia Holt to help us develop on our acting skills. In brief, our interview with Mr. Stoermer provided our group with a tremendous amount of critical information that brought both a conflicting viewpoint in some terms and a new perspective.

Stoltz, Joseph F. "Success Must Depend on Secrecy" [Success Must Depend on Secrecy]. Mount Vernon. Accessed March 24, 2020. https://www.mountvernon.org/library/research-library/special-collections- and-archives/tallmadge-letter/.

"The success of the Enterprise," Washington wrote to his chief spymaster Colonel Benjamin Tallmadge, "must depend, on … the secrecy of the attempt, and a knowledge of the exact situation of the enemy." In 1781, the British had won over the Southern Army, traitor Benedict Arnold was in Virginia, and the Continental Army had not won a major war since 1779. Subsequently, Washington thought of a plan

that could be in the "annals of American military history" if it was successful. "The plan Tallmadge and Washington drew up contemplated a daring cross-channel raid by Franco-American forces against a Long Island Loyalist stronghold and involved the most famous spy-ring of the war, " the text states. Benjamin Tallmadge wanted to suppress Tory's in the region which would make any attack on New York difficult. Fort Franklin was making it difficult to suppress these individuals so consequently if Tallmadge and Washington destroyed Fort Franklin it would in turn lead to a closer capturing of New York. George Washington wanted French troops from the East to strike rapidly because they were in a better position than the troops that were previously decided on. Both Abraham Woodhull and Benjamin Tallmadge ventured to Long Island to gather intelligence on Fort Franklin which Tallmadge brought to the French Troops. "Rochambeau, by Tallmadge's account, delighted in the daring American officer's presence and informed him of the glowing letter of introduction Washington had written," the article states. However, the French troops had no ships to spare which made the raid not possible to execute. "While the news that Tallmadge could not undertake the raid surely frustrated Washington, the information provided by the Long Island spies nonetheless led to Washington's greatest victory of the war." The Culper Spy Ring surmounted through the barrier of British advantages by being the rationale on why George Washington did not attack New York, but rather went to the South leading to the victory at the Battle of Yorktown. This article also conveyed to us that Washington thought highly of Benjamin Tallmadge as seen by his words briefed to Rochambeau. Moreover, we learned that Benjamin Tallmadge has a direct descendant Alexander B. Trevor who we could possibly contact in the future. In brief, this article brought a new perspective on how the Culper Spy Ring removed the impediment of British successes to the war along with Benjamin Tallmadge and a primary feat that led to the Patriots victory for independence and liberation.

Stony Brook. Accessed February 12, 2020. https://guides.library.stonybrook.edu/culper-spy-ring.

This source aided in our understanding of whom Morton Pennypacker was, and the role he held to uncover the secrecy of the Culper Spy centuries later. Townsend's identity and the role he played in the Culper Spy Ring was kept a long secret, and was with him until his death. Morton Pennypacker revealed this secret centuries later of the "double life" Townsend had lived in. This Lon Island historian matched the handwriting in Culper Jr's letter to Washington that contained ledgers and documents in Oyster Bay. He uncovered that the belonging was from New York and Long Island merchant. He found out that the letters from "Culper Jr" was the identity of Robert Townsend. This discovery was essential to our study of the Culper Spy Ring as we now know the identity of one of the most influential spies at the time to the espionage ring.

Stony Brook University. "George Washington and the Culper Spy Ring: About the Culper Spy Ring" [George Washington and the Culper Spy Ring: About the Culper Spy Ring]. St. Last modified November 9, 2019. Accessed December 10, 2019. https://guides.library.stonybrook.edu/c.php?g=35445&p=5548363.

Although Benjamin Tallmadge and Abraham Woodhull were the main spies, there were many auxiliary spies. This article helped us understand how there were many other spies such as Mary and Amos Underhill. These spies were crucial for the survival of the spy ring. Without these spies, information would not have been able to move through the ring and travel to the people who retrieved the

information. For example, Anna Strong secretly relayed information on where Caleb Brewster was hiding, so George Washington could meet with him covertly. The article also included a brief summary about how Morton Pennypacker wanted to match the handwriting in documents found in Oyster Bay, "belonging to an obscure New York and Long Island merchant," to "Culper Jr's" letters. This merchant turned out to be Robert Townsend (Culper Jr.). Pennypacker uncovered the long secret of Townsend's "double life".

TBR Newsmedia. Last modified August 12, 2016. https://tbrnewsmedia.com/alexander-hamilton-and-the- culper-spy-adventure-connection/.

This article mentioned the role Alexander Hamilton to the Culper Spy Ring. He was aware of the existence of the Culper Spy Ring and the advantages it created to gain the lead in the Revolutionary War. Hamilton was one of George Washington's trusted advisors, guiding Washington in his leadership of the war. He assisted with the task of reading the intelligence reports, learning the the works of the agents by their alias. The quote, "Hamilton was one of the very few individuals who knew of the Culper Spy Ring and its operations throughout the war. Being one of Washington's most trusted advisers, Hamilton was tasked with reading many of the intelligence reports created by Townsend, Woodhull, Strong, Brewster and Tallmadge. Though he didn't know their real names, he knew of their tremendous sacrifice and bravery in delivering those secret messages." from the source, was utilized in our description for Alexander Hamilton and his tribute to the espionage ring in our play.

"10 Things You Really Ought to Know about George Washington" [10 Things You Really Ought to Know about George Washington]. Mount Vernon. Accessed March 28, 2020. https://www.mountvernon.org/george-washington/10-things-you-really-ought-to-know-about-george- washington/.

In "10 Things You Really Ought to Know about George Washington" from Mount Vernon it provides a comprehensive understanding of George Washington's life so we could further understand his character as a spymaster. According to the article, George Washington was primarily self-educated, fearless in battle, saved the American Revolution twice, never abused power, and more. Based on these favorable characteristics, we were able to understand that George Washington was moral and brave. His actions in the Revolutionary War conveyed that his meaning of honor changed from civility to defending his country and procuring liberation for America. This can be the rationale towards how he was able to break the barrier of morality by utilizing the Culper Spy Ring as his hidden army of intelligence- gatherers despite it being known as dishonorable. His actions both preceding and after the Revolutionary War allowed us to learn his endeavors beyond being a spymaster, general, and President of the United States. This article provided us with a new insight on George Washington's honor and his character as the spymaster of the Culper Spy Ring.

"Timeline for Culper Spy Ring." Culper Spy Ring Timeline. Accessed November 22, 2019. https://www.timetoast.com/timelines/culper-spy-ring--3.

This timeline shows the events of important interactions of recruitments to the spy ring, the culper spy ring's victories, and exchanged letters. We also learned from this source about the attempt of Benedict Arnold to surrender West Point to the British, which was one of the military bases of the Continental Army for 20,000 pounds. This was explained throughout the letters exchanged with him and John André. His decision of betraying the Americans failed, which prevented a loss that could have caused serious trouble. This act was essential because he was associated with the Culper spy ring before committing treason. There were broken barriers when the Continental Army had to bear through the leaked information, and prevent any mishaps.

Velie, Mandalyn. "Espionage Tactics" [Espionage Tactics]. Mount Vernon. Accessed March 27, 2020. https://www.mountvernon.org/library/digitalhistory/digital-encyclopedia/article/espionage-tactics/.

"Espionage tactics played an important role in the military history of the American Revolution, and Washington's ability as a spymaster was a significant asset to the revolutionary cause. As commander- in-chief, Washington established spy networks, spread misinformation, and promoted the use of ciphers and invisible ink." Using the methods stated in this quote, the article provided was able to give us more in-depth information concerning how the Culper Spy Ring surmounted the barrier of trepidation. We discovered that the British had experienced cryptographers in the inception of the war, but nevertheless Benjamin Tallmadge was able to create codes and ciphers that both confused the enemy and were "simple enough for the receiving party to decipher." Another piece of information that we had not come across before was that, "Tallmadge employed a woman to enter British-occupied Philadelphia under the pretense of selling eggs." The Culper Spy Ring also used misinformation which could be conveyed in saving the Franco-American alliance from probable defeat at Newport by deceiving the British into thinking that the rebels were going to attack New York. Moreover, after George Higday's apprehension invisible ink within the Culper Spy Ring was used and prevented more spies from being caught by the British. The methods utilized by these spies alleviated the fear of the spies, and broke through British advantages within the army, ultimately leading to the Patriots’ victory. In brief, the espionage tactics used by the individuals of the Culper Spy Ring were the basis of their operations success in achieving liberation.

"Washington's Spies." American Revolution Museum. Last modified March 16, 2016. Accessed February 20, 2020. https://www.amrevmuseum.org/read-the-revolution/history/washingtons-spies.

The American Revolution Museum's article on the Culper Spy Ring provided us with information that Benjamin Tallmadge procured from both Nathaniel Sackett and John Parke. The website states, ""[Benjamin] Tallmadge had learned from Nathaniel Sackett how to disguise agents as enemy sympathizers using realistic cover stories, and from John Parke that a spy could nestle within the beast of an unsuspecting foe for months, perhaps years, at a time–provided he enjoyed a secure chain of communication back to base." Moreover, the website provides us with information regarding the origin of the alias' and how Culper Spy Ring became its name. Based on the information provided in the

website, the name was made by George Washington, Charles Scott, and Benjamin Tallmadge. Samuel Culper was also the reversed of the previous leader General Charles Scott, and "Washington lightheartedly amended the name of Culpeper County, Virginia–where, aged seventeen, he had worked as a surveyor back in 1749–to 'Culper.'… Brewster himself preferred to forgo an alias: Being a bluff and reckless fellow willing to take his chances, he always insisted on scrawling his real name, in very prominent letters, on all of his correspondence." The members of the spy ring were not willing to work with anyone they didn't know. Also, the article provided us with information regarding Abraham Woodhull stating that, "Woodhull's provincialism made his punctuation idiosyncratic and spelling atrocious. He used such words as 'doth' and 'hath'-antiquated even by the standards of the time-but as time progressed, so too did Woodhull's abilities."

White, Kathryn. "Benjamin Tallmadge." mountvernon.org. Accessed February 21, 2020. https://www.mountvernon.org/library/digitalhistory/digital-encyclopedia/article/benjamin-tallmadge/.

Kathryn White's article on Benjamin Tallmadge proved itself useful with the information it provided us regarding background information on Benjamin Tallmadge along with his duties after the Culper Spy Ring. Benjamin Tallmadge was born in 1754 in Setauket and was well-educated by his father. He began attending in 1769, and he maintained a close friendship with Nathan Hale. According to the article, "After completing his studies in 1773, Tallmadge took up a teaching post at a school in Wethersfield, Connecticut. After the Battles of Lexington and Concord and Bunker Hill, Tallmadge began to think seriously about joining the army in support of American independence. When the position of in one of Connecticut's six-month regiments of the Continental Army was offered to him by a Captain Chester of Wethersfield in 1776, Tallmadge readily accepted. He first saw action in the Battle of Long Island in August 1776, which ended in a British victory." At this battle, his brother was taken prisoner and was practically starved to death. It provided us with a description of his duties in the Culper Spy Ring and his paramount role in its success. After the Revolutionary War, he returned to his life in Connecticut. "He entered into various business and financial ventures...During Washington's first presidential term, Tallmadge was given the position of postmaster for Litchfield, Connecticut. He was elected to Congress in 1800 as a Federalist and remained in the House of Representatives until 1817. Benjamin Tallmadge died at the age of 81 in 1835." In brief, White's article provided us with critical information with regard to Benjamin Tallmadge and his life outside of the spy ring.

NHD PERFORMANCE SCRIPT COVER PAGE

PERFORMANCE INFORMATION Concealed in the Shadows; Breaking Principles: Washington’s Hidden Army that Won Project Title America’s Freedom Student Name(s) Gia Gupta, Karina Gupta and Jiwoo Lee Division Junior Performance Performance 9:57 Runtime “The harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph. I love the man that can smile in trouble, that can gather strength from distress and grow.” Confronted with the ultimate barrier of British oppression, the Culper Spy Ring, along with spymaster General George Washington, would employee unconventional methods to break the barriers of colonial bondage and secure the blessings of liberty. With the impediments Thesis of anxiety, dishonorable convictions, and obvious British advantages, these ordinary men utilized methods of espionage that not only placed them in danger but compromised the core values of General Washington. “But these are the times that try men’s souls,” and under the leadership and vision of General George Washington, the Culper Spy Ring, the hidden army, led America to the ultimate freedom by breaking into enemy lines and winning the war from within the ranks of the British camps.

PERFORMANCE OVERALL SCENARIO Story Setting(s) Timeframe The story’s timeframe is the duration of the The story’s setting takes place during the Revolutionary Revolutionary War from October 1776 during War in several different places. To begin, the individuals Nathan Hale’s demise to October of 1781 when in the espionage ring often met in taverns similar to the Washington led the Patriots to the final victory at one portrayed in the performance fashioned by the Old Yorktown which soon prompted liberation. Indian King Tavern in Haddonfield that was rumored to However, the Culper Spy Ring did continue its house a spy ring during the same period of time. operations until 1783. Story Synopsis George Washington and the Culper Spy Ring made up of a hidden army of ordinary individuals who beat the British by outsmarting and outmaneuvering them crossing the barrier of enemy lines, becoming the most victorious spy ring during the Revolutionary War. During this development of the espionage ring, Washington and the members had profound victories while still faced with the continual constraint of fear of dying an ignominious death which made them consider their tasks were unfeasible. Benjamin Tallmadge recruits spies throughout his hometown of Setauket, New York while asking them to sacrifice their lives, fortunes, and sacred honor. By obtaining critical information regarding British troop movements and their size throughout New York, the spy ring overcame the impediment of the tyrannical rule of the British and their advantages throughout the war, winning America’s freedom, nevertheless remaining as the unsung heroes of the Revolution.

CHARACTERS Character Performer Description/background for the character General George Gia Gupta "Despite having little practical experience in managing large, Washington conventional armies, Washington proved to be a capable and resilient leader during the Revolutionary War.” While Washington lost more battles than he won, his unconventional methodology ultimately helped break through British barriers and secure victory that liberated America. Known to some as the ultimate spymaster, the creation and employment of the Culper Spy Ring created a hidden army of spies that crossed enemy lines consequently leading America to win its freedom. As the chief receiver of information, Washington would use the intelligence to break through many barriers to take the upper hand and win America’s independence. Benjamin Karina Gupta “American espionage has its roots in the Revolutionary War, Tallmadge specifically in the network known as the Culper Spy Ring. At the center of this ring, appointed by General George Washington to provide military intelligence from the British headquarters in New York City, was Major Benjamin Tallmadge.” Abraham Jiwoo Lee “Tallmadge recruited only those whom he could absolutely trust, Woodhull beginning with his childhood friend, the farmer Abraham Woodhull...Tallmadge went by the code name John Bolton, while Woodhull went by the name of Samuel Culper.” He was a principal member of the spy ring who recruited Robert Townsend to join. He is continually faced with the barrier of anxiety and his father gets plundered by the British. Narrator 1 Karina Gupta Connected to the Culper Spy Ring, the narrator acts not only as the bridge between scenes but also between the past and present. Part of the legacy of the Culper Spy Ring, the narrator has a knowledge of the events that transcend the breaking of the immediate barrier posed to General Washington and connects the surprising legacy in the end. The narrator explains events in a formal manner with clear explanations. Narrator 2 Jiwoo Lee Connected to the Culper Spy Ring, the narrator acts not only as the bridge between scenes but also between the past and present. Part of the legacy of the Culper Spy Ring, the narrator has a knowledge of the events that transcend the breaking of the immediate barrier posed to General Washington and connects the surprising legacy in the end. The narrator explains events in a formal manner with clear explanations. Person 1 Karina Gupta Person 1 speaks confidently about the sacrifices and the impacts of the Culper Spy Ring. Person 2 Gia Gupta Person 2 speaks with emotion and confidence about the barriers the Culper Spy Ring broke and the methods they utilized. Person 3 Jiwoo Lee Person 3 is very emotional explaining the Culper Spy Ring, and what they never were able to obtain.

Robert Townsend Gia Gupta “Robert Townsend was an important informant who posed as a Loyalist coffee-shop owner and merchant while working as a society journalist. As a reporter Townsend was able to obtain information from the British at society gatherings.” He understands the risks of espionage but nevertheless gathers intelligence as a member of the Culper Spy Ring. Colonel Simcoe resides in his house, which he is angry about. Townsperson Gia Gupta The townsperson feels sympathy towards Nathan Hale and is knowledgeable about his demise. He feels that the British have a strong advantage over the Patriots. Messenger Jiwoo Lee The messenger is brisk and polite while delivering his messages to the recipients while knowing the content it holds. The messenger often comes in without the knowledge of the other individual. George Beckwith Karina Gupta “After the war, Major George Beckwith, the head of British intelligence operations in the colonies, acknowledged the effectiveness of Washington’s intelligence activities. After returning to with the defeated British army, London newspapers quoted Beckwith as saying, ‘Washington did not really outfight the British, he simply out-spied us.’” George Beckwith says his famous words sadly. Alexander Jiwoo Lee “Hamilton was one of the very few individuals who knew of the Hamilton Culper Spy Ring and its operations throughout the war. Being one of Washington’s most trusted advisors” and “in the room where it happened,” “Hamilton was tasked with reading many of the intelligence reports created by Townsend, Woodhull, Strong, Brewster, and Tallmadge. Though he didn’t know their real names, he knew of their tremendous sacrifice and bravery in delivering those secret messages.” During the Revolutionary War, he aided the spy ring by often responding to their correspondence.

OVERALL STAGE SETTING Describe the Stage(s) of the Performance Note: Set, prop and costume picture included at the end of Color Use Scheme script. 1. In the background is a large beige wall with two Background The background design is primary source maps next to each other Design supposed to resemble two different resembling George Washington’s office. There is significant places that were a desk with a velvet cloth covering the top and essential during the duration of the running to the floor. There are two espionage ring’s operations. The candlesticks with candles in them on either side of agents met throughout New York the desk. There are 3 other candles on the desk as specifically in Setauket and in well, a quill in a holder, an inkpot, and an open taverns. The tavern we portrayed leather journal in the center of the desk. Stool 1 is in our play is fashioned off of the behind the desk along with placed on it. Haddonfield Indian Tavern which we visited and received additional 2. In the background is a commonly styled tavern authentic costumes and props that is fashioned after the Haddonfield Indian from. The other side of our

Tavern that was rumored to house a spy ring. Two revolving backdrop was George paintings of Mount Vernon are next to each other Washington’s office which we hung on a wall with a curtain hung across them. used several secondary sources There is one stool in front of the wall at a slight tilt placed in our bibliography to make for seating. authentic. George Washington was the chief receiver of the intelligence which is why we deemed it paramount to include in our script. Props ● Painting of Mount Vernon (2) ● Wooden Stool with woven top 1 ● Newspaper concerning Nathan Hale’s death ● Battle of Yorktown Map ● Plan of the operations of General Washington, against the Kings troops in New Jersey Map ● Green Velvet Desk ● Glass Candlestick with Candle (2) ● Large wax candle (3) ● A quill enclosed in a holder ● Glass Inkpot ● Worn Leather Journal ● Worn Leather Messenger satchel ● British Naval Code Book ● Squared Glasses with gold wireframes ● Replica copy of a Letter from Abraham Woodhull

COSTUMES & PROPS BY SCENE Scene # 1 Nathan Hale’s Demise Costume(s) Visual(s) or Costume(s) Description(s) Set Design & Props Background In the background is a commonly styled tavern that is fashioned after Design the Haddonfield Indian Tavern ● Townsperson: He wears a white linen shirt with a that was rumored to house a spy collar. He wears a brown waistcoat with silver ring. Two paintings of Mount buttons on top of the shirt. He additionally wears Vernon are next to each other beige breeches, stockings, and leather shoes. hung on a wall with a curtain hung ● Benjamin Tallmadge: He wears a navy long coat across them. There is one stool in with a rise-and-fall collar, cuffs, and lapels. The front of the wall at a slight tilt for cuffs and lapels are a lighter shade of blue with seating. gold buttons along with it. He wears navy Props ● Painting of Mount Vernon breeches, leather shoes, and a linen white shirt (2) with a collar underneath the coat. Additionally, he ● Wooden Stool with woven wears stockings with leather shoes. top 1 ● Newspaper concerning Nathan Hale’s death

COSTUMES & PROPS BY SCENE Scene # 2 Washington Needs an Espionage Ring Costume(s) Visual(s) or Costume(s) Description(s) Set Design & Props Background In the background is a large beige wall with two primary source Design maps next to each other resembling George Washington’s ● General George Washington: Dressed as a office. There is a desk with a foreboding leader, Washington wears a blue long velvet cloth covering the top and coat with a rise-and-fall collar, cuffs, and lapels. running to the floor. There are two There are gold buttons along each lapel as well as glass candlesticks with candles in on the cuff. He wears a fitted beige waistcoat with them on either side of the desk. the same color breeches as well. He wears tall There are 3 other candles on the black boots that meet the end of the jacket with desk as well, a quill in a holder, an stockings underneath. He also wears a linen shirt inkpot, and an open leather journal with a ruffle collar underneath the waistcoat. in the center of the desk. Stool 1 is ● Benjamin Tallmadge: He wears a navy long coat behind the desk along with glasses with a rise-and-fall collar, cuffs, and lapels. The placed on it. cuffs and lapels are a lighter shade of blue with gold buttons along with it. He wears navy Props ● Battle of Yorktown Map breeches, leather shoes, and a linen white shirt ● Plan of the operations of with a collar underneath the coat. Additionally, he General Washington, wears stockings with leather shoes. against the Kings troops in New Jersey Map ● Green Velvet Desk ● Glass Candlestick with Candle (2)

● Large wax candle (3) ● A quill enclosed in a holder ● Inkpot ● Worn Leather Journal ● Squared Glasses with gold wireframes ● Wooden stool with woven top 1

COSTUMES & PROPS BY SCENE Scene # 3 Recruiting Abraham Woodhull Costume(s) Visual(s) or Costume(s) Description(s) Set Design & Props Background In the background is a commonly styled tavern that is fashioned after Design ● Benjamin Tallmadge: He wears a navy long coat the Haddonfield Indian Tavern with a rise-and-fall collar, cuffs, and lapels. The that was rumored to house a spy cuffs and lapels are a lighter shade of blue with ring. Two paintings of Mount gold buttons along with it. He wears navy Vernon are next to each other breeches, leather shoes, and a linen white shirt hung on a wall with a curtain hung with a collar underneath the coat. Additionally, he across them. There is one stool in wears stockings with leather shoes. front of the wall at a slight tilt for ● Abraham Woodhull: He wears a white linen shirt seating. with a ruffle collar. Over the shirt, he wears a Props ● Painting of Mount Vernon brown waistcoat with silver buttons and a pocket. (2) He wears brown breeches, stockings, and leather ● Wooden stool with woven black shoes. top 1

COSTUMES & PROPS BY SCENE Scene # 4 Recruiting Robert Townsend Costume(s) Visual(s) or Costume(s) Description(s) Set Design & Props Background In the background is a commonly styled tavern that is fashioned after ● Narrator: He wears a white linen shirt with a Design the Haddonfield Indian Tavern ruffle collar, an orange waistcoat with gold buttons, navy breeches, stockings, and dark, that was rumored to house a spy ring. Two paintings of Mount leather, flat, shoes. Vernon are next to each other ● Robert Townsend: He wears a white linen shirt hung on a wall with a curtain hung with a collar and a beige waistcoat with gold buttons on top. He also wears beige breeches, across them. There is one stool in front of the wall at a slight tilt for stockings, and dark leather shoes. ● Abraham Woodhull: He wears a white linen shirt seating. with a ruffle collar. Over the shirt, he wears a Props ● Painting of Mount Vernon brown waistcoat with silver buttons and a pocket. (2) He wears brown breeches, stockings, and leather ● Wooden stool with woven black shoes. top 1

COSTUMES & PROPS BY SCENE Scene # 5 The Utilization of New Methods Costume(s) Visual(s) or Costume(s) Description(s) Set Design & Props Background In the background is a large beige wall with two primary source Design maps next to each other resembling George Washington’s office. There is a desk with a

velvet cloth covering the top and ● Narrator: He wears a white linen shirt with a running to the floor. There are two ruffle collar, an orange waistcoat with gold glass candlesticks with candles in buttons, navy breeches, stockings, and dark, them on either side of the desk. leather, flat, shoes. There are 3 other candles on the ● General George Washington: Dressed as a desk as well, a quill in a holder, an foreboding leader, Washington wears a blue long inkpot, and an open leather journal coat with a rise-and-fall collar, cuffs, and lapels. in the center of the desk. Stool 1 is There are gold buttons along each lapel as well as behind the desk along with glasses on the cuff. He wears a fitted beige waistcoat with placed on it. the same color breeches as well. He wears tall Props ● Battle of Yorktown Map black boots that meet the end of the jacket with ● Plan of the operations of stockings underneath. He also wears a linen shirt General Washington, with a ruffle collar underneath the waistcoat. against the Kings troops in ● Benjamin Tallmadge: He wears a navy long coat New Jersey Map with a rise-and-fall collar, cuffs, and lapels. The ● Green Velvet Desk cuffs and lapels are a lighter shade of blue with ● Glass Candlestick with gold buttons along with it. He wears navy Candle (2) breeches, leather shoes, and a linen white shirt ● Large wax candle (3) with a collar underneath the coat. Additionally, he ● A quill enclosed in a holder wears stockings with leather shoes. ● Glass Inkpot ● Worn Leather Journal ● Squared Glasses with gold wireframes ● Wooden stool with woven top 1

COSTUMES & PROPS BY SCENE Scene # 6 Washington May Lose the French Fleet Costume(s) Visual(s) or Costume(s) Description(s) Set Design & Props Background In the background is a large beige ● General George Washington: Dressed as a wall with two primary source Design foreboding leader, Washington wears a blue long maps next to each other coat with a rise-and-fall collar, cuffs, and lapels. resembling George Washington’s There are gold buttons along each lapel as well as office. There is a desk with a on the cuff. He wears a fitted beige waistcoat with velvet cloth covering the top and the same color breeches as well. He wears tall running to the floor. There are black boots that meet the end of the jacket with two glass candlesticks with

stockings underneath. He also wears a linen shirt candles in them on either side of with a ruffle collar underneath the waistcoat. the desk. There are 3 other ● Benjamin Tallmadge: He wears a navy long coat candles on the desk as well, a with a rise-and-fall collar, cuffs, and lapels. The quill in a holder, an inkpot, and cuffs and lapels are a lighter shade of blue with an open leather journal in the gold buttons along with it. He wears navy center of the desk. There is a breeches, leather shoes, and a linen white shirt letter from Abraham Woodhull with a collar underneath the coat. Additionally, he open on his desk. Stool 1 is wears stockings with leather shoes. behind the desk along with glasses placed on it. Props ● Battle of Yorktown Map ● Plan of the operations of General Washington, against the Kings troops in New Jersey Map ● Green Velvet Desk ● Glass Candlestick with Candle (2) ● Large wax candle (3) ● A quill enclosed in a holder ● Glass Inkpot ● Worn Leather Journal ● Squared Glasses with gold wireframes ● Wooden stool with woven top 1 ● Replica copy of a Letter from Abraham Woodhull

COSTUMES & PROPS BY SCENE Scene # 7 A Traitor in the Army Costume(s) Visual(s) or Costume(s) Description(s) Set Design & Props Background In the background is a large beige ● Narrator: He wears a white linen shirt with a wall with two primary source Design ruffle collar, an orange waistcoat with gold maps next to each other buttons, navy breeches, stockings, and dark, resembling George Washington’s leather, flat, shoes. office. There is a desk with a ● Messenger: He wears a white linen shirt with a velvet cloth covering the top and collar. He is wearing an orange waistcoat with running to the floor. There are gold buttons on top. He is carrying a brown leather two glass candlesticks with satchel, wearing green breeches, stockings, and candles in them on either side of black leather shoes. the desk. There are 3 other ● General George Washington: Dressed as a candles on the desk as well, a foreboding leader, Washington wears a blue long quill in a holder, an inkpot, and coat with a rise-and-fall collar, cuffs, and lapels. an open leather journal in the There are gold buttons along each lapel as well as center of the desk. Stool 1 is on the cuff. He wears a fitted beige waistcoat with behind the desk.

the same color breeches as well. He wears tall Props ● Battle of Yorktown Map black boots that meet the end of the jacket with ● Plan of the operations of stockings underneath. He also wears a linen shirt General Washington, with a ruffle collar underneath the waistcoat. against the Kings troops in New Jersey Map ● Green Velvet Desk ● Glass Candlestick with Candle (2) ● Large wax candle (3) ● A quill enclosed in a holder ● Glass Inkpot ● Worn Leather Journal ● Squared Glasses with gold wireframes ● Wooden stool with woven top 1 ● Worn Leather Messenger satchel

COSTUMES & PROPS BY SCENE Scene # 8 Stealing the British Naval Code Book Costume(s) Visual(s) or Costume(s) Description(s) Set Design & Props Background In the background is a large beige wall with two primary source Design maps next to each other ● General George Washington: Dressed as a resembling George Washington’s foreboding leader, Washington wears a blue long office. There is a desk with a coat with a rise-and-fall collar, cuffs, and lapels. velvet cloth covering the top and There are gold buttons along each lapel as well as running to the floor. There are on the cuff. He wears a fitted beige waistcoat with two glass candlesticks with the same color breeches as well. He wears tall candles in them on either side of black boots that meet the end of the jacket with the desk. There are 3 other stockings underneath. He also wears a linen shirt candles on the desk as well, a with a ruffle collar underneath the waistcoat. quill in a holder, an inkpot, and ● Alexander Hamilton: He wears a white linen shirt an open leather journal in the with a collar. He wears a green long coat. The center of the desk. Stool 1 is green coat has a rise-and-fall collar. He wears behind the desk. green breeches, stockings, and leather shoes as Props ● Battle of Yorktown Map well. ● Plan of the operations of ● Benjamin Tallmadge: He wears a navy long coat General Washington, with a rise-and-fall collar, cuffs, and lapels. The against the Kings troops in cuffs and lapels are a lighter shade of blue with New Jersey Map gold buttons along with it. He wears navy ● Green Velvet Desk breeches, leather shoes, and a linen white shirt ● Glass Candlestick with with a collar underneath the coat. Additionally, he Candle (2) wears stockings with leather shoes. ● Large wax candle (3) ● A quill enclosed in a holder

● Glass Inkpot ● Worn Leather Journal ● Squared Glasses with gold wireframes ● Wooden stool with woven top 1 ● British naval codebook

COSTUMES & PROPS BY SCENE Scene # 9 The Legacy of the Culper Spy Ring Costume(s) Visual(s) or Costume(s) Description(s) Set Design & Props Background In the background is a commonly styled tavern that is fashioned after ● Person 1: Person 1 wears navy breeches, leather Design shoes, and a linen white shirt with a collar. the Haddonfield Indian Tavern that was rumored to house a spy Additionally, Person 1 wears stockings with leather shoes. ring. Two paintings of Mount Vernon are next to each other ● Person 2: Person 2 is wearing a white linen shirt with a collar. Person 2 also wears beige breeches, hung on a wall with a curtain hung across them. There is one stool in stockings, and dark leather shoes. front of the wall at a slight tilt for ● Person 3: Person 3 wears a white linen shirt with seating. a collar. Person 3 wears green breeches, stockings, and leather shoes as well. Props ● Painting of Mount Vernon ● George Beckwith: George Beckwith wears a (2) white linen shirt with a collar. George Beckwith ● Wooden stool with woven wears a brown waistcoat with silver buttons on top top 1 of the white shirt. He wears navy breeches, leather shoes, and stockings with leather shoes.

PERFORMANCE SCRIPT BY SCENES

SCENE 1 - “NATHAN HALE’S DEMISE” Purpose of the Scene Key Elements The outset of our play exemplifies the primary In the background is a commonly styled barrier the spies were attempting to break, the tavern that is fashioned after the barrier that they sacrificed their lives, fortunes, Haddonfield Indian Tavern that was rumored to house a spy ring. Two paintings and honor to remove the despotic rule of injustice Setting from the British and their significant advantages of Mount Vernon are next to each other throughout the war. Benjamin Tallmadge is hung on a wall with a curtain hung across informed of his childhood friend, Nathan Hale, them. There is one stool in front of the wall and his demise expressing one of the motives of at a slight tilt for seating. why Major Tallmadge was willing to risk his Late September of 1776 succeeding Timeframe identity for a greater cause of liberty. Nathan Hale’s death on September 22nd

Characters Townsperson, Benjamin Tallmadge Summary of the Scene After striving to pass intelligence within the enemy lines, Nathan Hale was seized by the British and soon hung for his attempts of treason. His memorable last patriotic words and legacy is recalled and commemorated by the American side. Once the news reaches Benjamin Tallmadge, he is alerted of his life-long companion’s demise, responding with shock and grievance.

DIALOGUE - SCENE 1 Character & Action Dialogue TOWNSPERSON (Gia) Nathan Hale, the man of a disreputable reputation was seized as a lonely (Benjamin Tallmadge has a patriot soldier behind British lines. shocked expression after this line.) TOWNSPERSON (Gia) His characteristic dying words were remembered fighting for liberty to (Townsperson glances up from eradicate the barrier of British rule. He said, “I only regret that I have but one the newspaper and puts it to life to lose for my country.” his right side leaning against the stool, and directs his attention to Benjamin Tallmadge with an urgent expression and speaks to him.) TOWNSPERSON (Gia) The British have built a barrier of not only oppressive rule, but profound (Townsperson speaks more advantages including a united, trained army and abundance of military sympathetically to Benjamin equipment which is surrounding us. We cannot break through, and without Tallmadge.) decisive wins and intelligence, we are not going to attain our rightful independence.

BENJAMIN TALLMADGE Nathan, my beloved friend, I fear to believe this is true. (Karina) (Benjamin Tallmadge waits a moment. Benjamin Tallmadge drops his head and speaks in a loud tone to Townsperson. He lowers his voice at the end of the line.) TOWNSPERSON (Gia) His patriotic ventures through his works of espionage while still knowing the (Townsperson pauses after outcome of a dishonorable death proves to break the biggest hindrance that “patriotism”.) faces the men of the war, trepidation. He broke the principles of war out of patriotism for his country.

BENJAMIN TALLMADGE How I will miss his presence greatly and thank you for informing me of his (Karina) tragic demise. (After this line, Benjamin Tallmadge drops his head. Townsperson stands up and goes behind the cloth. Benjamin Tallmadge waits a moment, stands up, and goes behind the cloth.)

SCENE 2 - “WASHINGTON NEEDS AN ESPIONAGE RING” Purpose of the Scene Key Elements George Washington portrays the dire necessity of In the background is a large beige wall intelligence to surmount the disadvantages of his with two primary source maps next to “under-trained, under-staffed, under-equipped, and each other resembling George under-funded” army. This scene is paramount as it Washington’s office. There is a desk with explains the recruitment of Benjamin Tallmadge a velvet cloth covering the top and running to the floor. There are two glass while simultaneously expressing the significant Setting barriers that the individuals in the espionage ring candlesticks with candles in them on will have to break through for them to succeed. either side of the desk. There are 3 other Notwithstanding the constraints of honor, fear, and candles on the desk as well, a quill in a enemy lines himself and the spy ring will face, holder, an inkpot, and an open leather George Washington leads Major Benjamin journal in the center of the desk. Stool 1 is Tallmadge to develop the Culper Spy Ring as he behind the desk. explicitly conveys that intelligence on the British Timeframe November of 1778 could be the hidden weapon to achieve liberation. General George Washington, Benjamin Characters Tallmadge Summary of the Scene As time passes of Nathan Hale’s death and his attempt of gathering intelligence, General Washington decides to finish his works with the creation of an espionage ring to help gain the lead despite several disadvantages. The General learns the true necessity of the spy ring during these difficult times. Upset with the tough barriers of honor and struggles with recruitment he must overcome, he comes in contact with Benjamin Tallmadge to put the tasks of management of the ring in his hands. After much thought and hesitation, Tallmadge accepts the position as the senior case officer as he comes to understand General Washington’s perspective during the time of war.

DIALOGUE - SCENE 2 Character & Action Dialogue GENERAL WASHINGTON It has been nearly two years since Nathan Hale’s death. It is a dire necessity (Gia) to break into English ranks and go against the British despite the barricade of (General Washington raises fear that confronts all of dying a dishonorable death with regard to the his voice. During the middle of enemy’s profound advantage. Yet we still don’t have a sufficient espionage the line, General Washington ring. Being outnumbered in men and incomparable with supplies, I fear a loss angrily gets out of Stool 1 and will be near. I know that we can overcome these disadvantages by means of gathering intelligence on British plans. starts pacing. )

BENJAMIN TALLMADGE You wish to see me General Washington, sir. (Karina) (Benjamin Tallmadge enters the scene from stage right.)

GENERAL WASHINGTON Major Benjamin Tallmadge, I have called you here to offer you a position as (Gia) a senior case officer for a spy ring operating in Long Island. Both leaders I (General George stops pacing. previously asked, Nathaniel Sackett and General Charles Scott, were not He directly speaks to Benjamin suitable for the position. Tallmadge and lowers his voice.)

GENERAL WASHINGTON Major Benjamin Tallmadge, you fit all the areas of expertise as you can tear (Gia) down British intelligence and hopefully give us the upper hand. (General Washington abruptly turns from Benjamin Tallmadge and paces. When General Washington mentions British intelligence, he directly turns towards him and raises his voice.) GENERAL WASHINGTON I understand that much is at stake here — our lives, our fortunes, and our (Gia) sacred honor. But, please recruit more agents in Setauket as you are native to (General Washington puts his there. It is important to have access to a network of spies to gather hand on Benjamin’s shoulder information about the British next steps in various locations. Please report and softens his voice as he back to me quickly to aid us in winning this war of liberation. speaks emotionally. General Washington pauses after mentioning honor.) BENJAMIN TALLMADGE Yes, sir. (Karina) (Benjamin Tallmadge speaks with an affirming tone.) GENERAL WASHINGTON For our mission and our spies’ safety behind enemy lines, I do wish to (Gia) continue with the spies’ identity hidden and never revealed. “There is nothing (General Washington pauses more necessary than good intelligence to frustrate a designing Enemy; and nothing that requires greater pain to obtain” with the barriers of for a second before “never revealed”. He raises his voice apprehension. The fountain of all intelligence, must originate at the and paces after “designing headquarters of the enemy!” Enemy” General Washington lowers his voice after “requires” and stops and looks at Benjamin Tallmadge.) BENJAMIN TALLMADGE I will do as said, sir. (Karina) (After Benjamin Tallmadge shakes his head in acknowledgment, General Washington and Benjamin Tallmadge exit the scene.)

SCENE 3 - “RECRUITING ABRAHAM WOODHULL” Purpose of the Scene Key Elements Benjamin Tallmadge recruits Abraham Woodhull In the background is a commonly styled and understands the barriers he will have to face tavern that is fashioned after the with recruiting spies. The spies have to struggle Haddonfield Indian Tavern that was rumored to house a spy ring. Two paintings with trepidation and anxiety. This scene is Setting important in the development of our play because of Mount Vernon are next to each other while Abraham does want what's best for his hung on a wall with a curtain hung across country, he is hesitant to put his life on the line in them. There is one stool in front of the wall doing so. But after persuasion from Benjamin, at a slight tilt for seating. Abraham is willing to break the barrier of fear for Timeframe December of 1778 the greater good. Characters Benjamin Tallmadge, Abraham Woodhull Summary of the Scene As recruitment becomes one of Benjamin Tallmadge’s main priorities to run the espionage ring as the senior case officer, he comes to request and convinces Abraham Woodhull to join the spy ring. Knowing a glimpse of the consequences and barriers he would have to face upon the decisions he makes, Woodhull struggles with trepidation and anxiety to give his final say. With some patriotic words of persuasion from Tallmadge, Abraham Woodhull, with courage, finally agrees to the offer. To his exception of including his name in any letter, Woodhull soon becomes one of the most crucial and active members of the Culper Spy Ring.

DIALOGUE - SCENE 3 Character & Action Dialogue BENJAMIN TALLMADGE I need you to help me, Mr. Woodhull. General Washington has asked me to (Karina) organize a spy ring to be the undisclosed weapon that will defeat the despotic (Abraham Woodhull turns and barrier of injustice by gathering military intelligence concerning British troop faces Benjamin Tallmadge. movements and regimental sizes throughout New York. After the first sentence. Abraham Woodhull turns away, taking a large breath. He rolls his eyes after Benjamin Tallmadge mentions the spy ring. Abraham Woodhull refocuses his gaze on Benjamin Tallmadge when he mentions the use of the ring.)

ABRAHAM WOODHULL Who else knows about this? (Jiwoo) (Abraham Woodhull speaks in a concerning tone.)

BENJAMIN TALLMADGE Only General Washington and myself. I need you to be a spy. I am planning (Karina) on asking Austin Roe and Caleb Brewster to assist in gathering further (Abraham Woodhull turns his intelligence. head, and paces when Benjamin Tallmadge mentions General Washington.) ABRAHAM WOODHULL Ridiculous! So, I must gamble my own fortune and life to gain information (Jiwoo) on the British. (Abraham Woodhull turns to Benjamin Tallmadge, expresses his anger and raises his voice.) BENJAMIN TALLMADGE You will be able to live with your sister in New York in which the British (Karina) won't raise any suspicions. (Benjamin Tallmadge lowers his gaze and shakes his head in denial. He walks closer to Abraham Woodhull. After this line, Abraham Woodhull lowers his head in thought.)

BENJAMIN TALLMADGE In the words of , “These are the times that try men’s souls. The (Karina) summer soldier and the sunshine patriot, will in this crisis, shrink from the (Benjamin Tallmadge speaks service of his country; but he that stands by it now, deserves the love and slower and is more emotional. thanks of man and woman.” For the freedom of our people and our country, He pauses after “summer we must all work together to gain information on the British. It is a risk we must be willing to take for the better of the future of our country. soldier will.”)

ABRAHAM WOODHULL My name must not be mentioned at all, you must not raise the risk of placing (Jiwoo) me in grave danger. (Abraham Woodhull faces Benjamin Tallmadge with a worrisome expression.) BENJAMIN TALLMADGE Yes. Thank you for your help, Abraham. (Karina) (Benjamin Tallmadge and Abraham Woodhull exit the tavern simultaneously.)

SCENE 4 - “RECRUITING ROBERT TOWNSEND” Purpose of the Scene Key Elements The members of the Culper Spy Ring and the In the background is a commonly styled spymaster George Washington sacrificed their tavern that is fashioned after the honor to lead or to gather intelligence as the Haddonfield Indian Tavern that was rumored to house a spy ring. Two paintings hidden army crossed enemy lines. Robert Setting Townsend’s reluctance to join the espionage ring of Mount Vernon are next to each other is a symbol of the barrier of honor. Nevertheless, hung on a wall with a curtain hung across his patriotism additionally expressed by Abraham them. There is one stool in front of the wall Woodhull allowed him to understand that honor at a slight tilt for seating. now could be defined as joining the war of Timeframe May of 1779 independence for liberty. This scene candidly depicts the importance of patriotism and the Narrator 1, Abraham Woodhull, Robert yearning of liberty’s effect on the impediments the Characters Culper Spy Ring faced. Townsend Summary of the Scene After almost a year since his recruitment, Abraham gets tipped off due to his suspicious behavior to the British. When British Colonel Simcoe reaches his house to capture him, he finds Woodhull’s father whom he soon beats, but Abraham’s absence. Abraham then meets Robert Townsend to inform him about General Washington's espionage ring. With the thought of dishonoring his family along with himself, or worse putting his life in sole danger, Townsend completely opposed the idea of a spy ring. Following a time of deliberation, he comes to realize that without the spy ring’s intelligence, the Americans would possibly result in a suffering loss. For the freedom of his country, Robert becomes willing to face the barriers of death and danger that come alongside joining the ring.

DIALOGUE - SCENE 4 Character & Action Dialogue NARRATOR 1 (Karina) Almost a year has passed from the day of recruitment for Abraham Woodhull (After the line, the Narrator who is continually faced with the barrier of anxiety. In the Spring of 1779, leaves the stage and Abraham John Wolsey, a Long Islander privateer was captured by the British and tipped off information of suspicious behavior of Woodhull to Colonel Woodhull enters.) Simcoe. As Colonel Simcoe reached Woodhull’s house he only found the absence of Abraham. ABRAHAM WOODHULL The stress of a probable ignominious death has overwhelmed me. Colonel (Jiwoo) Simcoe had fallen upon my father and plundered him in the most shocking (After the first sentence, manner the day before my arrival. Abraham Woodhull lowers his head, raises his arm around his head, and talks angrily.)

ROBERT TOWNSEND That scoundrel Colonel Simcoe! He is living in my house taking over, (Gia) treating us dreadfully, and has pillaged your dear father. (Robert Townsend enters the stage. He raises his arm in anger and is indignant. He punches his fists towards the ground.) ABRAHAM WOODHULL His reaving can be accounted for by my events towards patriotic espionage. (Jiwoo) General Washington has created a spy ring to gain intelligence on the British, (After the first sentence, Robert in which you could be a crucial asset. Townsend puts his hands on his head and breathes heavily.) ROBERT TOWNSEND You want me to dishonor the Townsend family, Woodhull?! (Gia) Espionage is not acceptable in our honor. (Robert Townsend raises his voice in anger. He shakes his arm in denial.) ABRAHAM WOODHULL Our army is “under-trained, under-staffed, under-equipped, and under- (Jiwoo) funded.” (Abraham Woodhull has a quieter voice and puts a hand out to quiet Robert Townsend.) ABRAHAM WOODHULL In order to win, we need to out-maneuver and out-smart the enemy. The (Jiwoo) notions that the Declaration of Independence has given us must be applied in (Robert Townsend faces away which Jefferson writes, “with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine from Abraham Woodhull Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes, and shaking his head in thought our sacred Honor.” and Abraham Woodhull faces the audience. He pauses after “our Fortunes” and faces Robert Townsend. Then, Abraham Woodhull and Robert Townsend exit the scene.)

SCENE 5 - “THE UTILIZATION OF NEW METHODS” Purpose of the Scene Key Elements Succeeding George Higday’s In the background is a large beige wall with apprehension, George Washington along two primary source maps next to each other with Benjamin Tallmadge implemented resembling George Washington’s office. several methods to prevent more There is a desk with a velvet cloth covering individuals in the spy ring from getting the top and running to the floor. There are two glass candlesticks with candles in them caught. George Washington is additionally Setting faced with the barrier of fear as the on either side of the desk. There are 3 other pressure of the spies’ lives are on his candles on the desk as well, a quill in a hands. However, he understands that with holder, an inkpot, and an open leather the utilization of the new techniques the journal in the center of the desk. Stool 1 is profound barrier of fear that the spies face behind the desk along with glasses placed of dying an ignominious death can be on it. broken. Including invisible ink and secret Timeframe July of 1779 codes, the methods and codes assured Washington that an accident similar to George Higday’s would not repeat itself. Using these methods was a large step in Narrator 2, General George Washington, Characters the path of breaking barriers for not only Benjamin Tallmadge the Culper Spy Ring but also for George Washington. Summary of the Scene It comes to the attention of George Washington that one of the Culper Spy Ring’s members, George Higday, was caught. Once Benjamin Tallmadge and General Washington are notified, they suffer from this defeat, facing the pressure that comes along with managing such dangerous missions. To break through the barriers dealing with their pressure and anxiety, they manage to come up with solutions to prevent this event from repeating ever again at any cost. Learning from Higday’s capture, they create innovative techniques to keep the safety of their agents and the ring fully discrete from their enemy lines. Techniques of which include invisible ink and secret codes, to assist the spies to overcome the walls of anxiety put up against them, to form an unconstrained system of their espionage ring.

DIALOGUE - SCENE 5 Character & Action Dialogue NARRATOR 2 (Jiwoo) On July 2, 1779, British raiders attacked Benjamin Tallmadge’s camp at (Narrator exits with a lowered dawn, killing 10 soldiers, and capturing 8, along with dozens of horses. One head. General Washington of the horses which carried Benjamin Tallmadge’s saddlebags contained his enters the scene behind his personal papers, money, and a letter that wrote of George Higday, an desk distracted by his individual gathering intelligence for Benjamin Tallmadge’s name and surroundings. Benjamin location. Tallmadge enters the scene in front of his desk directly looking at General Washington.)

BENJAMIN TALLMADGE Sir Washington, it is said that one of the spies of the Culper Spy Ring, (Karina) (George Washington looks directly at Benjamin Tallmadge.) BENJAMIN TALLMADGE George Higday has been caught. We put his life in danger! (Karina) (Benjamin Tallmadge raises his voice.) GENERAL WASHINGTON The lives and pressure that lay on my hands are far more than I can bear, but I know, I know I must do it to remove the British impediments on our (Gia) country. (General Washington lowers his head. He is worrisome; he looks away from Benjamin Tallmadge. He then sits down on Stool 1, turned away from Benjamin Tallmadge.) GENERAL WASHINGTON I must conquer the overwhelming constraint of grievance held against me, (Gia) and utilize this as a lesson. My responsibility for the lives of my agents (General Washington’s gaze meets Benjamin Tallmadge’s.) GENERAL WASHINGTON must be put with confidence for the responsibility I have for this nation and (Gia) its triumph. (General Washington stands up with more confidence and raises his voice.) BENJAMIN TALLMADGE We must come up with a solution that must not risk the lives of our agents (Karina) while it performs the crucial tasks necessary to obtain liberty for America. (As Benjamin Tallmadge speaks as he starts pacing, General Washington puts his hand on his face in distress.) GENERAL WASHINGTON I do not have time to waste on the restrictive impediment of anxiety that the (Gia) members of the spy ring are strenuously trying to break. (General Washington speaks loudly and angrily.) GENERAL WASHINGTON Major Tallmadge, I am putting trust in your works and management. (Gia) (George Washington and he faces Benjamin Tallmadge, who stops pacing and directs his attention towards General Washington.)

BENJAMIN TALLMADGE But sir, how must I manage and report back to you if you do not know who (Karina) they are? (Benjamin Tallmadge puts his hands on his forehead in distress and begins pacing again.) GENERAL WASHINGTON We must have codes. An alias. (Gia) (General Washington faces the audience.) BENJAMIN TALLMADGE To hide behind a barrier of secrecy, I will be known as John Bolton, (Karina) (Benjamin Tallmadge pauses. He walks towards General Washington. As he speaks, Benjamin Tallmadge puts his hand on his chest signaling himself.) BENJAMIN TALLMADGE and my other two spies as Samuel Culper and Samuel Culper Jr. (Karina) (Benjamin Tallmadge puts his two hands outwards signaling two people while facing the audience.) BENJAMIN TALLMADGE The British will never know the meaning of our correspondence. And for the (Karina) deliverance of the intelligence, sir as the spies are in faced with the obstacle (Benjamin Tallmadge slams of anxiety? his fist on the desk.) GENERAL WASHINGTON For that, James Jay, the brother of John Jay, whom we can put our trust in, (Gia) has created a solution known as a sympathetic stain. This invisible ink will do (General Washington looks up the trick, "not only will it render and lead communications less exposed to to Benjamin Tallmadge in detection", but also relieve the fear of such persons as may be entrusted in its relief. As he speaks, he stands conveyance." Additional techniques will be created to overcome the enemies' and puts a hand on Benjamin secrecy lines in order to expect a triumphal end. To ensure the secrecy of our works further, we must also utilize secret encrypted codes to make out Tallmadge’s shoulder.) correspondence more discrete. Frequently used words would be replaced with combinations of numbers to secure that the contents of our intelligence would not be comprehended by the enemies. BENJAMIN TALLMADGE Yes, General. We certainly cannot risk another incident similar to Higday’s. (Karina) (After speaking, Benjamin Tallmadge and General Washington exit the office simultaneously.)

NARRATOR 2 (Jiwoo) As the spy ring progressed, more techniques were created to prevent the (Narrator exits the stage after enemy from comprehending their ways of transporting intelligence. Their techniques continually became more complex and complicated and they his dialogue.) started using dead drops, as well as ciphers and mask letters many of which are still utilized by the CIA in the present day.

SCENE 6 - “WASHINGTON MAY LOSE THE FRENCH FLEET” Purpose of the Scene Key Elements Towards the middle of the war, George In the background is a large beige wall with Washington gains help from a French fleet that two primary source maps next to each other holds “supplies for his unarmed men”. The British resembling George Washington’s office. had figured out about this help and planned to There is a desk with a velvet cloth covering ambush the ships. With the use of the Culper Spy the top and running to the floor. There are two glass candlesticks with candles in them Ring intelligence, Washington was able to trick Setting the British and ultimately gain help from the on either side of the desk. There are 3 other French. Throughout the Culper Spy Ring’s candles on the desk as well, a quill in a existence, this was one of their major holder, an inkpot, and an open leather accomplishments because just as Washington journal in the center of the desk. Stool 1 is recognized, they could not win the war without behind the desk along with glasses placed French assistance. If the British succeeded, the on it. Franco- American alliance would have been Timeframe July of 1780 damaged or destroyed by the attack. This scene shows how with the spies’ help, Washington was General George Washington, Benjamin an excellent leader and was able to surpass British Characters barriers. Tallmadge Summary of the Scene General Washington is relying on a French fleet of ships holding the supplies and troops for his ragtag army. He faces the issue of the possibility that the British have gained the knowledge of the French fleet and use it to sabotage his plans. With the absence of the supplies from the French, he becomes aware that the awaiting freedom would soon be gone. On the other hand, George Washington uses his spy ring’s intelligence to his advantage, tricking the British of the plan to switch the location of the French landing. Following his intentions, the French lands with no harm safely. With the use of the spies’ intelligence, good news welcomed General Washington as the army was able to break into British barriers and keep the French plan safe from harm.

Character & Action Dialogue GENERAL WASHINGTON An assisting French fleet is holding over 6000 troops and the supplies (Gia) (General Washington slams the glasses on to his desk after mentioning the French fleet.) GENERAL WASHINGTON for my unarmed men are approaching Newport, Rhode Island but the British (Gia) are knowledgeable of this plan. I can’t lose this fleet or else the dream of (After this line, General procuring liberty that floods the Patriots of America’s minds is out of my Washington stands up and he hands and we will lose the French. picks up the letter on his desk. He glances down at it and then starts pacing.)

GENERAL WASHINGTON Culper Senior’s letter has informed me of British troops embarking today at (Gia) Whitestone for Rhode Island. I must use my spy ring’s intelligence to spread (General Washington slams misinformation to prepare for a diversionary attack in New York. I can’t lose the letter on his desk and this fleet or else the French will be defeated before they even land in Rhode punches his fists down.) Island.

BENJAMIN TALLMADGE I have heard great news we broke into the British barriers. I have learned (Karina) from the spy ring intelligence that the French has landed with no attack from (Benjamin Tallmadge enters at the British. They have unloaded their artillery and the British are still in New a running pace with his hands York. waving in the air. He is ecstatic and out of breath. After this line, Benjamin Tallmadge and General Washington are very joyful, and exit the scene simultaneously.)

SCENE 7 - “A TRAITOR IN THE ARMY” Purpose of the Scene Key Elements The primary barrier of the oppressive rule of the In the background is a large beige wall with British portrayed in the outset of the play is again two primary source maps next to each other repeated in this scene. The Culper Spy Ring’s resembling George Washington’s office. intelligence-enabled Benjamin Tallmadge to There is a desk with a velvet cloth covering discover Benedict Arnold’s traitorous acts and led the top and running to the floor. There are two glass candlesticks with candles in them to John André’s demise. Due to the profound Setting importance of West Point under the patriot’s on either side of the desk. There are 3 other control, it is certain that if Arnold had gained candles on the desk as well, a quill in a control of West Point the barrier of British rule holder, an inkpot, and an open leather would have been further reinforced. However, the journal in the center of the desk. Stool 1 is intelligence provided allowed the barriers of the behind the desk along with glasses placed British advantages and their rule to become on it. minimized. Timeframe September of 1780

Narrator 1, Messenger, General George Characters Washington Summary of the Scene As one of the trusted leaders of the American side, Benedict Arnold was much respected in the American side. However, as General Washington learns of Arnold’s betrayal through his espionage ring, he realizes that gaining spy intelligence is gradually becoming more necessary in the war. If it was not for the intelligence gained from the Culper Spy Ring, Benedict Arnold would have succeeded in his plans of giving up West Point to the enemy, which could have cost the Patriots a loss in the war.

Character & Action Dialogue NARRATOR 1 (Karina) Benedict Arnold, a skilled and trusted leader of General Washington (After this line, the Narrator who betrayed his army and the American cause, met with John André exits the scene. General to scheme a surrender for West Point on the 20th of September, 1780. Washington and Messenger Benjamin Tallmadge of the Culper Spy Ring discovered the enter the scene on opposite suspicious activity of André and Arnold as the character of a traitor. sides. Messenger is running into the room where George sits down at his desk focused with his journal.) MESSENGER (Jiwoo) I have figured it out from Major Benjamin Tallmadge. Benedict Arnold is a (After this line, General traitor and sabotaged our plans. Washington stands up, exhales, turns away from Benjamin Tallmadge, and starts pacing. General Washington’s expression is a mixture of sadness and anger that is overtaking him.)

GENERAL WASHINGTON No, Benedict Arnold? Who can we trust now? (Gia) (General Washington pauses for a moment and he begins to speak slowly. Messenger turns away from General Washington and exhales loudly.) GENERAL WASHINGTON Our lead in this war and our fight for freedom would be questionable or (Gia) worse gone without intelligence. (General Washington’s voice breaks and he looks like he is on the verge of tears. After the line, he sits down at his desk faced away from the Messenger. His hands are on his head and he is distressed and overwhelmed.) MESSENGER (Jiwoo) We caught Major André, sir, after Major Tallmadge had recognized General (Messenger has a pleading Arnold as a traitor. We will find solutions to remain in secrecy and get rid of look. Messenger begins those deceitful spies of the British. walking around General

Washington’s desk. GENERAL WASHINGTON I order John André to be hung! (Gia) (General Washington raises his head and focuses his glance on Messenger. General Washington has a stern and angry expression. He raises his voice.)

MESSENGER (Jiwoo) Yes, sir. (General Washington stands up from his desk. General Washington and Messenger exit the scene from the same side of the stage.)

SCENE 8 - “STEALING THE BRITISH NAVAL CODE BOOK” Purpose of the Scene Key Elements The achievement of successfully stealing the In the background is a large beige wall with British naval codebook draws one of the Culper two primary source maps next to each other Spy Ring’s most impactful and effective works to resembling George Washington’s office. Washington’s plans of triumph in war. This scene There is a desk with a velvet cloth covering highlights just another major accomplishment the the top and running to the floor. There are two glass candlesticks with candles in them espionage ring was able to gain to advantage for Setting the American side in the war despite their ragtag on either side of the desk. There are 3 other army. Without the capture of the codebook from candles on the desk as well, a quill in a Mr. James Rivington of the Culper Spy Ring, the holder, an inkpot, and an open leather mission of Yorktown would have been difficult to journal in the center of the desk. Stool 1 is complete. This mission shows how the incredible behind the desk along with glasses placed successes of the Culper Spy Ring are truly what on it. led to the win of the war for Washington. Timeframe Early September of 1781

General George Washington, Alexander Characters Hamilton, Benjamin Tallmadge Summary of the Scene The French fleet commanded by Admiral de Grasse became a successful mission as it was essential to the plan of surrounding Yorktown. For Admiral De Grasse to be able to comprehend the communication between the British ships, General Washington continues his plan as he enlists Allen McLane to capture the codebook. With a victorious outcome, but differing from the plans, James Rivington, a member of the Culper Spy Ring returns with the codebook after breaking into the British barriers and stealing yet successfully. As the book solves many of its complications, it is transported to Admiral de Grasse. As victory forms, Benjamin Tallmadge announces not only the conclusion of the war but officially declares America’s triumph. The result due to the mission of Yorktown implies the major effect the Culper Spy Ring had on gaining the lead in the war and the reliance General Washington soon developed to provide its advantages against the British.

Character & Action Dialogue GENERAL WASHINGTON French Admiral De Grasse has the command of the large fleet rather most (Gia) paramount to the success of this mission, Yorktown (General Washington picks up his glasses and he puts them on himself. He turns away from his desk, and he pauses for a moment.) GENERAL WASHINGTON I have enlisted Allen McLane to gather intelligence on the British ships and (Gia) to figure out how the French fleet will be able to decipher what the enemy (General Washington walks ships are communicating during naval engagements. over to the map of the Battle of Yorktown while he is turned away from the audience. He puts his hands behind his back.)

ALEXANDER HAMILTON General Washington! (Jiwoo) (General Washington begins pointing at the map while Alexander Hamilton enters. General Washington is unaware of his initial arrival.) ALEXANDER HAMILTON I have received the codebook! (Jiwoo) (General Washington directs his attention towards Alexander Hamilton with somewhat surprise.) ALEXANDER HAMILTON Mr. James Rivington of the Culper Spy Ring broke into enemy lines and (Jiwoo) gained access to a copy of the British book. He then passed it to Mr. McLane (Alexander Hamilton raises his and I now have a hold of it. hand with a leather book that is open. General Washington looks at him with excitement and amazement. Alexander Hamilton passes the book to General Washington who begins to look through it.) ALEXANDER HAMILTON Once I transport it to Admiral de Grasse, it will be a huge loss to the British. (Jiwoo) (General Washington closes the book and looks at Alexander Hamilton surprised and amazed. After this line, Alexander Hamilton and General Washington leave the scene at the same time.)

BENJAMIN TALLMADGE We have won the war. The Treaty of Paris has been signed. (Karina) (After this line, Benjamin exits the scene promptly.)

SCENE 9 - “THE LEGACY OF THE CULPER SPY RING” Purpose of the Scene Key Elements Although the Culper Spy Ring’s time of work In the background is a commonly styled ended due to the conclusion of the war, their tavern that is fashioned after the legacy and impact lives on. Person 1, 2, and 3 Haddonfield Indian Tavern that was rumored to house a spy ring. Two paintings express their emotions, ideas, and respect towards Setting each of the agent’s accomplishments to spread the of Mount Vernon are next to each other awareness of how their efforts and achievements hung on a wall with a curtain hung across played a major role in the result of the war that led them. There is one stool in front of the wall us to a free country till this day. They recall the at a slight tilt for seating. hardships the spies were forced to face and their Timeframe Present-day society courageous ways of patriotism utilized to overcome them. They elaborate with the purpose to clearly and truthfully illustrate that through the Culper Spy Ring’s courage that battled through Person 1, Person 2, Person 3, George Characters barriers, their tasks assisted Washington to gain Beckwith the victory, which might not have been possible without their intelligence. Summary of the Scene As the works of the Culper Spy Ring conclude due to their successful victory in the war, their works are commemorated by their long-lasting legacy. People 1, 2, and 3 recall the spies’ troubles, their successes, and their will to risk their lives for the freedom of their country. These admirers of the Patriots’ works explain the impact personal yet also broad, physical barriers had on the agents, and how they were able to surpass these struggles against their trepidation and beyond to the British. As they completed their final tasks at the end of the Revolutionary War, their tactics and techniques are still left with us as some methods are still utilized to this day with present-day spies like the CIA. They describe with the purpose to say the accomplishments of the Culper Spy Ring have resulted in our nation's triumph. Overall, it is indicated that Washington could not have won the war without the Culper Spy Ring, leading to the reputation as George Beckwith stated, that “Washington did not really outfight the British, he simply out spied them.”

Character & Action Dialogue PERSON 1 (Karina) The Culper Spy Ring had given up not only their identity and honor but also (Person 1 takes off his blue the risks of their lives. Their extraordinary heroism and patriotism, unknown coat and hangs it on his arm. to their contemporaries, should not be forgotten. George Washington He speaks confidently and preserved their letters among his belongings, and it is because of him that we can share their story of how they broke through the barriers of enemy lines proudly.) while overcoming the constraint of a fear of an ignominious death. PERSON 1 (Karina) The determination and perseverance within the Culper Spy Ring won their (Person 2 and 3 enter the stage liberty, and America's independence. from opposite sides with their hands behind their back.)

PERSON 2 (Gia) The spies surpassed the obstacles that convinced them that their works would (Person 1 leaves the stage. lead to failure. Failure of which their tasks were unfeasible, failure of which Person 2 puts his hands in death was awaiting. They surmounted these barriers with the idea of front of him signaling he is patriotism. The methods used by these spies- the dead drops, the well-crafted about to speak. He takes off his backstories, the compartmentalizing of intelligence, and the secret encrypted vest and hangs it on his arm. code - are many of the same methods still used today by secret agents Person 2 pauses after globally. Washington broke social and political barriers by using these tactics which were instrumental in the development of America’s intelligence “unfeasible.” community. PERSON 3 (Jiwoo) They never sought credit, never received accolades, and never revealed the (Person 2 exits the stage. risks they took or the sacrifices they made to serve our country even to this Person 3 steps forward to the day. No statues stand to represent these courageous souls, whose feats should center, takes his coat off, and earn them a place of honor alongside the heroes of the Revolution. They were places it on his arm. He puts the hidden American army of unsung heroes that served for the single his hands in front of him. purpose of freedom. “The methods, the bravery, the cunning, the near misses, Person 3 pauses after and the incredible successes of the Culper Spy Ring helped to save our nation and shape our future.” British Major George Beckwith, declared: “purpose.”) GEORGE BECKWITH Washington did not really outfight the British. He. . . (Karina) (Person 3 steps behind and puts his hands behind his back. George Beckwith enters the stage and concludes. Person 2 enters the stage.) GEORGE BECKWITH, simply out spied us.” PERSON 2 AND PERSON 3 (Karina, Gia, and Jiwoo) (Person 2 and person 3 all say)

Concealed in the Shadows; Breaking Principles: Washington’s Hidden Army that Won America’s Freedom