Captain John Manley: America’s Forgotten First Hero

With Author Ken Sheldon

Join author Ken Sheldon for a reading and talk celebrating the launch of his new book, Captain John Manley: Patriot, Privateer, and America's Forgotten First Hero (Harmon House).

In 1776, John Manley was a naval hero, celebrated in newspaper accounts and praised by George Washington. Today, he is largely overlooked. Ken Sheldon—fifth-great-grandson of John Manley—set out to discover why, and the search became a decades-long quest to uncover the true story of this forgotten hero. Copies of Ken’s book will be available for purchase and signing.

“Manley's life and exploits seem more the stuff of naval fiction, and they are brought to life in Sheldon's narrative, which is readable, well-researched and fast-paced.” —James L. Nelson, author of George Washington's Secret Navy

“Sheldon takes the reader on a journey of discovery and in the process shines light on the birth of a nation, with its triumphs and defeats, both in battle and in life.” —Mel Allen, longtime editor of Yankee Magazine and author of Here in New England

About the Author

Kenneth M. Sheldon is the author of Deep Water—Murder, Scandal, and Intrigue in a New England Town. He is a former columnist for Yankee Magazine and New Hampshire Magazine and is a frequent speaker at libraries, bookstores, and historical organizations throughout New England.

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