Fifty years ago, on September 11, 1971, a series of bombings ripped through New York City, injuring dozens and sending shockwaves across the country. One of the most devastating explosions occurred at the historic Fraunces Tavern, a beloved fixture in Lower Manhattan.
The blasts, which also targeted the Navy Recruiting Center and the National Guard Armory, were orchestrated by the extremist group Weather Underground, a left-wing radical group that had previously carried out violent attacks across the United States.
At approximately 2:50 a.m., a homemade explosive device detonated outside Fraunces Tavern, a 272-year-old pub that had once served as General George Washington’s headquarters during the American Revolution. The blast caused significant damage to the building and sent debris flying into the nearby streets.
Despite the chaos and destruction, there were no reported fatalities, thanks in part to the quick actions of local police and emergency responders. However, 13 people were injured in the blast, including several law enforcement officers and civilians.
In the aftermath of the bombing, the FBI launched a massive investigation, scouring the area for evidence and gathering statements from eyewitnesses. A few days later, the FBI announced that they had identified two suspects: Catharine Scott, a 19-year-old from New York, and Michael Nathan, a 20-year-old from California. Both were linked to the Weather Underground and had previously been associated with other bombings and protests around the country.
The bombing of Fraunces Tavern marked a turning point in the Weather Underground’s campaign of violence, as the group faced increased scrutiny and pressure from law enforcement and the public. Scott and Nathan would eventually be charged with the crime, although both would later plea guilty to reduced charges and receive relatively light sentences.
Today, the 50th anniversary of the Fraunces Tavern bombing serves as a reminder of the destructive power of extremism and the importance of peace and understanding in our society. As we commemorate this pivotal event in American history, we must also acknowledge the resilience and fortitude of those who were impacted by the bombing, and renew our commitment to building a brighter, more compassionate future for all.
