Revolutionary War Patriot. A native of Groton, CT, Captain Robert Niles served in the French and Indian War during 1757, in Captain Gallup's company of Colonel Lyman's regiment. In July 1776, the Connecticut Colony purchased a schooner "the Spy", outfitted it for defense of the coastline and appointed Robert Niles its Captain. Captain Niles successfully captured several enemy vessels, but his real test came in June 1778 when he was appointed the task to deliver to Benjamin Franklin in France, an official copy of the ratified Treaty with that kingdom. He skillfully evaded the British vessels that were watching the coast and made the passage of the Atlantic in the shortest time yet known.
Revolutionary War Patriot. A native of Groton, CT, Captain Robert Niles served in the French and Indian War during 1757, in Captain Gallup's company of Colonel Lyman's regiment. In July 1776, the Connecticut Colony purchased a schooner "the Spy", outfitted it for defense of the coastline and appointed Robert Niles its Captain. Captain Niles successfully captured several enemy vessels, but his real test came in June 1778 when he was appointed the task to deliver to Benjamin Franklin in France, an official copy of the ratified Treaty with that kingdom. He skillfully evaded the British vessels that were watching the coast and made the passage of the Atlantic in the shortest time yet known.
Bio by: Superkentman
Inscription
"A patriot who commanded the Spy. During the Revolution he carried the treaty to France delivering it to Benjamin Franklin. Capt. Niles served his country faithfully and died a Christian in the year 1818 aged 83."
Gravesite Details
Husband of my 3rd Cousin 7 times removed
Family Members
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