American Revolution

Today I awoke early to witness a reenactment of the beginning of the American Revolution at the Old North Bridge in Concord which took place April 19, 1775. Because of the significance of the day, I am submitting five photos to depict the happenings rather than spread them out over 5 days, where their relevance would be lost.

The British had sent 700 soldiers to Concord to destroy military equipment stockpiled there. They sent 96 men to guard the Old North Bridge to prevent rebels from other areas from threatening their mission. The colonial militia consisting of 400 ragtag farmers and the like were waiting. A standoff occurs at the bridge.

The British shoot warning shots and then actually fire into the militia.

The militia, shocked that two of their leaders were felled, return the fire.

The British in disbelief make a hasty retreat.

The militia cross the bridge to save the town of Concord which had been set afire, and lay the groundwork for the birth of a new nation.

The Concord Hymn
Ralph Waldo Emerson (1837)

By the rude bridge that arched the flood,
Their flag to April's breeze unfurled;
Here once the embattled farmers stood;
And fired the shot heard round the world.