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Minute Man National Historical Park
Hartwell Tavern Historical Area
Minute Man National Historical Park was the starting place of the American Revolution: here the resolve of citizens willing to risk their lives for the ideals of liberty and self-determination was instrumental in the formation of the American identity.
The park preserves sites where Colonial militia men and British soldiers clashed on April 19, 1775. A force of 700 British soldiers left Boston to seize military supplies stockpiled in Concord. Alarm riders alerted the countryside. In area towns, militia companies assembled, ready to defend their communities and their liberties if necessary.
After brief battles at Lexington Green (5:00 a.m.) and Concord's North Bridge (9:30 a.m.) fighting escalated along the "Battle Road." As the British troops marched back towards Boston, militia companies poured in. By afternoon, nearly 4,000 Colonists unleashed "an incessant fire" upon the British soldiers. At the end of the day, the Colonists surrounded and laid siege to Boston. The Revolutionary War had begun.
The Battle Road Trail
This five mile trail from Meriam's Corner to Fiske Hill provides pedestrian, bicycle and wheelchair access to many cultural and natural sites within the park. The trail visits battle sites, agricultural fields, colonial homes and taverns, forests, fragile wetlands, and historic landmarks. Portions of the trail are on the Battle Road where the British column marched; other sections follow stone walls and farm lanes traversed by the Colonists.
Many visitors begin their tour by viewing the exhibits and orientation program at the Minute Man Visitor Center. |