Much of the information in this blog (and in all previous Hamilton bios) has been updated, expanded, or even corrected in Michael E. Newton's new book Discovering Hamilton. Please check that book before using or repeating any information you read here on this blog (or that you read in previous Hamilton biographies).
ALEXANDER HAMILTON: SON OF A WHORE?
The Extramarital Affair of Alexander Hamilton’s Mother
Based on Newly Discovered Court Records from St. Croix
by National Hamilton Scholar Michael E. Newton
Friday, July 13, 2018, 3:00 pm
Federal Hall, 26 Wall St, New York, NY 10005
“How does a bastard, orphan, son of a whore…” Son of a whore?
For decades, Hamilton biographers have described Alexander Hamilton’s mother, Rachel Faucett, as a “whore.” This appellation comes from a single record in which her first husband, John Lavien, sought a divorce. Lavien provided few details in his self-serving accusation that Rachel conducted extramarital affairs and was thus a “whore.”
Michael E. Newton, who has previously uncovered the oldest known Hamilton documents and many other groundbreaking Hamilton discoveries, will share recently discovered court records from St. Croix, written in old Gothic Danish script and translated by leading scholars in the field, describing the salacious details of Rachel Faucett’s extramarital affair.
As a leading national scholar on Alexander Hamilton, Michael E. Newton has an impressive record of revealing new discoveries, debunking previously held myths, and objectively analyzing the historical record of Alexander Hamilton and the American Revolution. Mr. Newton is author of the highly acclaimed Alexander Hamilton: The Formative Years, the most extensive, detailed, and accurate record of the first half of Alexander Hamilton’s life (1757–82). New Hamilton discoveries are being posted weekly on DiscoveringHamilton.com.
It is recommended to arrive early. Seating will be limited.
Location: Federal Hall, 26 Wall St, New York, NY 10005
Time: Friday, July 13, 2018, 3:00 pm.
Followed by a meet & greet with Hamilton scholar Michael E. Newton.
Cost: Free
In conjunction with the Alexander Hamilton Awareness Society’s Celebrate Hamilton 2018.