Able Ebenezer is an homage to the inspirational actions of New Hampshire citizens who rallied behind Ebenezer Mudgett in 1772 to defy British oppression. History remembers this event as the Pine Tree Riot.

At this time the British - whose own nation has been deforested from excessive logging - pass a law granting any colonial White Pine tree greater than twelve inches in diameter to the British government, primarily to build ships and maintain their naval superiority. This law is considered by working colonists to be more oppressive than the Stamp Act, Tea Tax & others because it directly seizes a prized commodity growing on their own property. As a resource, Pine Trees were as important as oil today.

Pine Trees are marked with the “King’s Broad Arrow” indicating that the tree was now property of the King. When Ebenezer Mudgett, a mill owner, is caught with hundreds of trees clearly marked for the King, he refuses to pay his fine. A warrant is issued for Ebenezer's arrest.

On April 13, 1772, the Sheriff organizes a posse to hunt him down.

That evening, many local citizens come together at Ebenezer's home - which often doubled as a tavern - offering to help pay his fines. Instead, over pints of locally brewed ale, he rallies them to fight back against the unjust Pine Tree Law.

In the early hours the following morning, Ebenezer and his men arm themselves, blacken their faces, and storm the inn where the Sheriff & his deputy sleep. They are beaten, dragged from their rooms, forced atop their horses and chased out of town to the cheers of townspeople.

The Rioters are subsequently labelled "Notorious Offenders" in the press, and armed soldiers are mobilized to quell the riot.

Months later, Ebenezer and several of his leading "conspirators" are finally captured. Yet, to the surprise of British loyalists, the Judges side with the rioters and let them all go free. This marks the first event whereby both colonists and local government successfully engage in an act of civil disobedience against the British crown. The story spreads across the colonies and the Pine Tree Riot becomes an inspiring event for the many riots to follow, including the Boston Tea Party.

Ebenezer volunteers to fight on behalf of New Hampshire in the Revolutionary war, serving in the 1st New Hampshire Regiment under John Stark.

The White Pine tree goes on to become a symbol used widely by the Patriots on militia and naval flags throughout the American Revolution, first seen at the Battle of Bunker Hill.

Ebenezer Mudgett’s example of sheer individual ability is the embodiment of the Live Free or Die mindset in New Hampshire, which is why we proudly bear the name Able Ebenezer.