The Archaeology of Connecticut's Battlefields
An anthropology professor at the University of Connecticut, Dr. Kevin McBride focuses part of his research on battlefield archaeology, the
scientific study of conflict landscapes. His work includes recovering and analyzing material remains to reconstruct battles, understand troop movements, and provide accurate historical narratives.
“Connecticut’s Revolutionary War battlefields, fortifications, and encampments are often overlooked as making significant contributions to our state and national history,” he says.
Thanks to GMTV for recording and editing this video.
Recorded on April 18, 2024
Congratulations to Director Wendy Connal!
Wendy has been the Director of Bill Memorial Library for ten years!
Enjoy some highlights of her time here.
The Death of Lt. Colonel William Ledyard
How was Colonel William Ledyard really killed in the Battle of Groton Heights? The time-honored tale of his surrender to the British prompting a sword through his chest has a shadowy history. Local historian, John Steward, examines the controversy surrounding Ledyard’s death from its creative beginning in 1781 to today, illustrating how the story became an urban legend. “Are we truthfully honoring Colonel Ledyard’s legacy today?” asks Steward. Hear the evidence, and decide for yourself.
Thanks to GMTV’s Patrick Crawford for recording and editing this video.
Recorded on September 5, 2024
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***This video won an award! The Connecticut Library Association awarded the Bill Memorial Library the 2025 Publicity Award – Small Library! (see photo below)***
2025 Publicity Award - Small Library
Creators (left to right): Bill Pratt, Mary-Jane Carle, Scott Carle. Not pictured: Mary Howard. Photo courtesy of Karla Umland.
The Life of Lt. Colonel William Ledyard
Most people know Lt. Colonel William Ledyard for his death during the Battle of Groton Heights in 1781. But what about his life? John Steward, who pens “Tossing Lines,” a column in The Day newspaper’s Times editions, fills in the missing pieces of Ledyard’s legacy. Thanks to GMTV’s Pat Crawford for putting this video together.
Recorded on September 7, 2023
Bacon Banjo Company Program
In the 1920s and 1930s, the Bacon Banjo Company was located on Thames Street in Groton, CT. Founded by celebrity musician Frederick Bacon, the company produced high-quality instruments that are still sought after today. Learn more about the Bacon Banjo Company’s history and enjoy a live performance by Marc Bernier, Bill Pratt, and Jason Rusk.
Recorded on May 6, 2023