"Beyond the Minute Men"

~ Exploring the Military Tradition of the Massachusetts Militia

From the stern Puritan warriors of the 17th century, to the audacious "minute men" of Revolutionary fame, the citizen-soldiers of the Massachusetts Militia played a crucial role in the building of our nation. First organized in the 1630's, the Massachusetts Militia successfully defended their colony for more than 140 years prior to the Revolution. Join Park Ranger Jim Hollister (wearing 18th century period clothing and weapons) for a one hour exploration of the Old World origins and New World adaptations of the Massachusetts militia, their equipment and weapons, the many threats they faced and the impact of this military tradition on the events of April 19, 1775.

*To reserve this program, please call (978) 318 - 7832 or e-mail: jim_hollister@nps.gov.

"Liberty's Daughters" ~ The role of women in the start of the American Revolution

What were women doing while the men were forming minute companies and preparing to fight? Learn about the women who rolled musket cartridges; about Mary Hartwell and the slave Violet who spread the alarm, and Martha Moulton who saved the Concord townhouse. Find out about the patriotic spinning bees advocating home manufacture. This one hour program, presented by Park Ranger Margie Hicks wearing 18th century period clothing, includes demonstrations of cartridge rolling and spinning wool and flax (linen) fibers into thread.

*To reserve this program, please call (978) 318 - 7824 or e-mail: margie_hicks@nps.gov