New England Must Not Be Trampled On: The Tragic Death of Jonathan Cilley

by Roger Ginn

Overview

On February 24, 1838, Maine Congressman Jonathan Cilley was killed in Maryland by another Congressman from Kentucky in one of the last duels to take place in the United States. At the time, dueling was not illegal, but still Cilley’s death was a shock to the nation. Before the duel, fought with rifles at less than one hundred paces, Cilley is believed to have said, “New England must not be trampled on.” He fought for the honor of his name, the honor of his home state, and the stout patriotism he held all his life.
This revealing biography considers Cilley’s short life: his early years in New Hampshire, his time at Bowdoin College and his friendship with Nathaniel Hawthorn, his marriage and political life, the events that caused him to accept the duel challenge, and the duel itself, with its tragic aftermath. It also provides an intriguing look into the politics of nineteenth century America.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781608933877
Publisher:	Down East Books
Publication date:	02/01/2016
Pages:	252
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 8.90(h) x 1.00(d)

About the Author

Roger Ginn is a retired psychologist who has long had a passion for history. His interest in what could drive a man to challenge another to a duel of honor, or to accept such a challenge, is what lead him to the tragic story of Jonathan Cilley. This is his first publication outside his professional work. He lives in Alfred, Maine.

Table of Contents

Introduction 1

1 Nottingham Square: A New Hampshire Hilltop 7

2 The Formative Years: Life on the Square 19

3 Bowdoin Years 29

4 Thomaston Years 45

5 First Term 63

6 Sent Home 75

7 Expelled 91

8 Mr. Speaker 105

9 U.S. House of Representatives 123

10 Confrontation 133

11 The Note 147

12 Rifle Practice 155

13 The Challenge 161

14 The Duel 171

15 Blame and Investigation 185

16 Wise and Clay 205

17 Mistaken Sense of Honor 211

Epilogue 219

Notes 225

Bibliography 243