General Israel Putnam Tombstone in Brooklyn, Connecticut

Israel Putnam, affectionately known as “Old Put,” was a prominent figure in American history. He served as a colonial American military officer and a Patriot hero during the American Revolutionary War. Putnam also played a significant role in the French and Indian War. 

In 1775,  Congress  appointed Putnam as one of the first four major generals of the Continental Army. He commanded the New England militia forces at the Battle of Bunker Hill in June of that year. He helped organize the “Sons of Liberty” Traditionally, Putnam is credited with giving the famous order, “Don’t fire until you see the whites of their eyes.” 

Tragically, Putnam suffered a stroke in 1779 and subsequently retired from military service. He passed away on May 29, 1790, in Brooklyn, Connecticut and is buried there under a large monument.