The Best Way to Learn About the Beginning of the Revolutionary War
Patriot’s Day has been a Massachusetts holiday since 1894, and it represents far more than just the day that the Boston Marathon is run, and an 11:00am Boston Red Sox home game. I have lived in New England my entire life, and remember learning years ago in school about the start of the Revolutionary War and the Battle of Lexington and Concord. It took me until my 40’s to realize that every year there’s several reenactments, and they are a fantastic way to put into perspective the events of that day, and the ramifications they had on our country.
So many aspects of these events have been romanticized. From the lanterns in the Old North Church, to Longfellow’s poem about Paul Revere and his famous ride, to the “shot heard ’round the world,” there is so much history to enjoy!
First, a little background… This is a site that details the events of April 19th, 1775.
2024 marks the 249th anniversary of the battles, and these are the calendars of events
I personally think that attending the reenactments are fantastic for all ages, but especially perfect for families who’s kids are learning about the Revolutionary War in School. Sure, most kids don’t want to learn during April Vacation, but it’s a great way to provide local context to what we learn about in history books. As New Englanders, this all happened right in our backyard!
I must say, though, that since the battle at the Lexington Green happens right at daybreak, it IS an early morning for most of us, kids especially. The two times I’ve attended this event, we had to be there before 5am. Of course, the earlier you arrive, the better view you can get of the action.
Immediately after the skirmish at the Lexington Green, we’ve toured Buckman Tavern. It opens for tours at 6am on the morning of Patriot’s Day. After the tour, there are several pancake breakfasts available, run by local churches, Boy Scout troops, etc. It’s a great way to fuel up for the rest of the day’s events.
After breakfast, we’ve immediately headed over to Concord to the North Bridge. It’s definitely not a good idea to dilly-dally, as the goal is to get to the North Bridge before the troops get there. There’s a quick reenactment, and then a parade that goes over the bridge.
After the parade, we’ve headed over the bridge and walked up the path and toured the North Bridge Visitor’s Center.
From there, we’ve headed deeper into the Minuteman National Park, and retraced the movements of the troops, saw the site that Paul Revere was captured. It’s amazing how the entire area has been kept virtually as it was. The architecture of the buildings is outstanding, and it really does take you back in time, making it very easy to imagine how things were almost 250 years ago.
Since 2024 is the 249th anniversary, I can only imagine that 2025 will be very very busy.
Places to stay near Lexington and Concord
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