The scope of King William’s War was immense. Known also as the Second Indian War, it lasted from 1688 to 1697. The War was fought between New France and New England along with their respective Native allies and was the first world war in that it was fought on two continents, Europe and North America. It was the first of six colonial wars ending with France ceding its remaining mainland territories in North America east of the Mississippi River in 1763.

(Above) Author Ed Lodi describes how Benjamin Church from Little Compton was recruited into the war led five expeditions against the French and Indians into northern New England and New France, for which Church became famous as the forefather of the Rangers. Click here for a one-hour video of Lodi’s talk.

The talk was held at the Brownell Public Library in Little Compton, RI as part of its Author Talk series.

(Above) Library Specialist Hillary Annelle introduces Mr. Lodi to the audience and points out that his books are available for sale following his presentation.

Lodi also talked about Hannah Dustan, the first woman in America to have a statue erected in her honor; the infamous raid against Schenectady, New York; and many other topics related to the war.

Click here for a one-hour video of Lodi’s talk.