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RHS event to feature Bob Webler

WEST SPRINGFIELD On Oct. 18, Bob Webler will speak about the Hessian troops who traveled through West Springfield in 1777. These Hessian troops, German mercenaries under the command of General Friedrich von Riedsel, were captured during the Northern Campaign of the Revolutionary War and were being marched to Boston.

Webler's presentation will include comments from the personal papers of Lady Fritz Riedsel who accompanied her husband during this campaign.

Many Hessian soldiers decided to stay in America and not return to Germany. While researching his genealogy, Webler discovered that he was a descendent of Martin Webler, one of the Hessians who decided to stay in the new country. He has assisted over one hundred descendants find their Hessian ancestors. After extensive research, he published A Family History of Martin Webler (1756-1837) A Hessian Soldier in Connecticut in 2004.

Webler has written a number of articles on the Hessian experiences in the Revolutionary War. He has published in the Journal of the Johannes Schwalm Historical Association. This Association searches for, preserves, and publishes materials on Hessians with particular emphasis on soldiers who remained in North America following the Revolutionary War.

Webler's presentation is sponsored by the Ramapogue Historical Society (RHS). The Oct. 18 program will take place at the Mittineague Congregational Church, 1840 Westfield St. The program starts at 7:30 p.m. and will conclude about 9 p.m. Refreshments will be served.