Sail Through History

Privateers: sanctioned seafaring swindlers or daring sailors that turned the tides of America’s struggle for freedom? Rye Historical Society invites you to a very special weekend to explore the enthralling nautical history of privateering during one of America’s most tumultuous time periods. The Story of Privateering in the Revolutionary War with Eric Dolin On Friday, October 16th, join us for a very special evening with Eric Jay Dolin, critically acclaimed and New York Times bestselling author of Rebels at Sea: Privateering in the American Revolution. Dolin will share fresh insight into the ways privateers were fundamental to the outcome of the American Revolution. At a time when the British navy was the most powerful force on the water, the Continental Congress gave freelance fleets of whaleboats and merchant vessels letters of marque, empowering them to scour the coastlines and open oceans in hopes of capturing British ships, thereby putting a thorn in the side of the oppressive forces threatening colonial freedoms. From 6-7pm, join us at the historic Square House museum for Dolin’s presentation on the daring exploits of these rebellious sailors. Light bites and drinks will be available from 5:30-6pm prior to the talk. Mr. Dolin will be available after the presentation for a short Q&A and opportunity to sign copies of his work, Rebels at Sea, as well as his newest work, The Wreck of the Mentor. Copies will be available courtesy of Arcade Books.