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Join us for a lecture by Historian Alex Cain, followed by drilling demonstrations performed by reenactors from Danvers & Lexington.In October 1774, the Massachusetts Provincial Congress ordered the towns across the colony to prepare for war with England. In response, Essex County entered a wartime phase that included creating minute-man companies, stockpiling arms, ammunition, and equipment, and establishing a defense network ready to mobilize if the redcoats marched from Boston into the countryside. Join Alexander Cain as he discusses the county's response to the British threat of war on the eve of Lexington and Concord.
After the lecture, attendees can stay to witness live demonstrations of the types of drills used by local militias in 1775. Reenactors from the Danvers Alarm List Company will demonstrate the Pickering Manual of Arms, while the Lexington Minutemen will demonstrate the 1764 Crown Manual. These demonstrations will offer a hands-on look at how militias trained and prepared for battle in the years leading up to the Revolution.
The Lecture portion will be limited to 75 participants but all are welcome to attend the drill demonstrations. Please be aware that the reenactors will be firing muskets during these demonstrations, which will result in loud booms and smoke.
Meredith Farm is a privately owned, 188-acre farm in Topsfield, which has been recently renovated. Its 1793 Barn houses an extensive private collection of artifacts related to American history; This barn is where the lecture portion will take place.
This program is part of Essex County Revolution 250. Essex County Revolution 250 is an initiative of Essex Heritage in partnership with Massachusetts Rev250 and dozens of regional museums, heritage sites, and organizations, with the intention of raising awareness and highlighting the diverse stories of Essex County, Massachusetts residents, free and unfree, during the American Revolutionary period. For more information visit EssexHeritage.org/REV250
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
41 Cross Street, Topsfield, 01983, US, United States
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