There are many enigmatic figures in America’s history but one of the most puzzling is Aaron Burr. Well connected, and well on his way up the public career ladder, he ended in disgrace, a vice president later tried for treason.

Newtown Historical Society in conjunction with C.H. Booth Library will examine Burr’s life and court case in “The Treason Trial of Aaron Burr,” a presentation to be offered by Kent Newmeyer, on Monday, November 9, at 7:30 pm. The free program will be offered in the lower meeting room of the library, 25 Main Street in Newtown. 

After serving honorably as an officer in the Revolutionary War Continental Army, Burr practiced law and went into politics in New York. He was twice elected to the state Assembly, and was appointed NY Attorney General.

On the national stage, he was elected as US Senator by the New York legislature. In 1800 he was elected Vice President, serving under Thomas Jefferson. Members of the Electoral College of the time were expected to vote separately for President and Vice President rather than the team, and the two men were tied in the vote. Although it was obvious that Jefferson had been the choice for President, Burr refused to concede.

Thrown into the House of Representatives, the election was decided for Jefferson after long and bitter campaigning, political machinations, and more than 30 ballots. Burr never forgave what he saw as Alexander Hamilton’s influence in the outcome.

Jefferson and Burr had been political allies but never friends, and relations between them remained cool. In 1804, while serving as Vice President, Burr engaged in his famous duel ending in Hamilton’s death. Although Burr was charged with the crime he was never tried. Still, despite Hamilton’s ebbing influence, the event marked the effective end of Burr’s career.

Burr’s subsequent activities are murky. He went to the southwest frontier, and formed a small armed force, ostensibly to be ready in case of Spanish attack; many suspected a darker motive. His letters to Spanish and British officials were incriminating but not conclusive.

Burr’s enemies suggested he wanted to foment revolt in Mexico, and establish himself as ruler in the territory split off in the ensuing battles. When Jefferson heard of the plot, he issued a warrant to arrest Burr for treason. Burr was eventually tried but was acquitted.

Kent Newmeyer is a retired law professor at the University of Connecticut, with a particular interest in legal history.

Refreshments will be served following the presentation

For further information call 203-426-5937 or visit newtownhistory.org.