The following was sent by Reading resident, Alan E. Foulds, Chairman of the Lynnfield Rev250.
Revolution 250 is on everyone’s mind these days. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts played an outsized role on April 19, 1775 and we are about to recognize the 250th anniversary in cities and towns all over the state.
Much emphasis has, understandably, focused on Lexington and Concord. To look no further would be a mistake, though.
The north shore Town of Lynnfield has a compelling story to tell and the Lynnfield Historical Society has come up with a unique way to tell it.
On April 19, 1775, Lynnfield was part of Lynn and known as The Second Parish or Lynn End. Town incorporation wasn’t until 1782. The village of about 25 homes sent nearly 40 men to answer the alarm delivered by their neighbor, midnight rider, Martin Herrick. They lost three townsmen in the fiercest fighting of the day at the Jason Russell House, not in Lexington or Concord, but just down the road in Menotomy, today’s Arlington.
Using town records, history books and relayed accounts, we are bringing our heroes back to life, so to speak, to address us directly and tell us what they encountered. This will be done vis a vis an original play, we are calling, Shadows of 1775 . The play will be performed in the chapel of the Centre Congregational Church at 5 Summer St., at 7pm on Friday, April 18, 2025.
The following morning we have a full slate of activities planned including , for the littles, a reading of Longfellow’s Midnight Ride of Paul Revere, as well as crafting with tricorn hats, coloring and more which will take place in the Library. Our Martin Herrick will ride in on horseback sounding the Alarm. We have 18th century music, fife and drum, musket demonstrations, a Patriot’s Gallery, and a wreath laying. The day ends with a patriotic band concert.
We would really appreciate being included in your Rev250 coverage in print and digitally, and we welcome your presence on April 18 and 19 to cover the events in person.
We urge you to view our Facebook page, our Website, and our YouTube Channel and reach out to us for any additional information. I am also attaching a flyer with more details.
Thank you for your consideration.
Alan E. Foulds, Chairman Lynnfield Rev250
