On April 19, 1775, a significant battle broke out between Massachusetts colonial militiamen and British troops in Lexington and Concord, marking the first major battle of the American Revolutionary War and achieving a morale-boosting victory.
As the 250th anniversary of this battle approaches, Massachusetts has begun preparations to reenact this historical event. On April 19, various guests gathered in Lexington, known as the “Birthplace of America,” to officially kick off a 365-day countdown to the anniversary celebration.
“We also see it as a civic duty to realize the ideals that our predecessors fought for, ensuring that the experiences we have learned and been taught from these outstanding events will not be lost, as we are fortunate enough to live in Massachusetts today,” said Massachusetts Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll.
The day’s events took place outdoors at Cary Memorial Hall in Lexington, with a festive atmosphere. In addition to the guests, residents and visitors passing by also stopped to watch. A band in colonial-era attire played music, marking the beginning of the 365-day countdown.
Guests participating in the countdown included Massachusetts officials as well as the British and French Consuls General in Boston. While reflecting on history, they also emphasized the friendship and shared values with the United States today.
“249 years ago, imagining that in the year 2024, the official representative of the King in Boston could attend this event sounds like a wild fantasy. We have transformed from war adversaries to establishing the deepest cooperation, fighting for freedom alongside France in World War II, investing over 1 trillion dollars in each other’s economies,” said British Consul General in Boston Peter Abbott OBE.
He mentioned that he wore the 249-year-old red coat of the British army that morning, retracing the marching route of the British troops. He also paid tribute to the North American militiamen and British soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the war.
Compared to Britain, France was an important ally of the North American revolutionaries. Consul General Mustafa Soykurt of France in Boston jokingly referred to France as the “oldest ally” of the United States.
“As we commemorate this milestone event, it is equally important to remember the longstanding friendship between France and the United States. Our two countries have stood side by side, weathering good times and bad, not just connected by treaties and alliances, but also by a deep belief in the values of freedom and equality,” Soykurt said.
In addition to them, guests present at the event included Massachusetts Senator Michael Barrett representing Lexington and Concord, as well as representatives from the Massachusetts National Guard, Lexington Town Hall, and other departments.
After a brief parade, the guests on site unveiled and cut the ribbon for the countdown plaque for the “Lexington 250th Anniversary” (Lex250) celebration, looking forward to a series of historical reenactments and anniversary events next year.
“We hope that you mark your calendars for April 17-21, 2025, and participate in all the special celebrations in Lexington and the surrounding communities,” said Suzie Barry, Chair of the Lexington 250th Anniversary Committee.