The Plight of Loyalists on the Eve of Independence

For our second history talk of the 2026 season, we take a look at the life of the Loyalists during the Revolutionary War.

In this lecture, Alexander Cain examines the often-overlooked experiences of American Loyalists from New England and New York during the Revolutionary War. He will examine how unwavering loyalty to the Crown led to the loss of homes, freedom, and security for numerous families. Drawing on original petitions and firsthand accounts, the presentation traces the harrowing flight of Loyalists from so-called “patriot” mobs and Committees of Safety. The discussion further explores the severe hardships endured by Loyalist families, including those from western Massachusetts, who sought refuge with the British army, facing starvation, violations of civil liberties, and exile. The lecture also highlights the resilience that enabled these individuals to persevere in the face of such adversity.

Alexander Cain, JD, has authored numerous research articles and presentations on the American Revolution, including the Battles of Lexington, Concord, and Bunker Hill, the Siege of Boston, and the experiences of New England and New York loyalist refugees during the Burgoyne Campaign. In addition, he has published two books: We Stood Our Ground: Lexington in the First Year of the American Revolution and I See Nothing but the Horrors of a Civil War: The Loyalists of McAlpin’s Corps of American Volunteers. He is also the creator of the blog and podcast Historical Nerdery (historicalnerdery.com). Currently, he is in the process of writing his upcoming book, “For God’s Sake, Fire!” – The Massachusetts Militia System on the Eve of the Battles of Lexington and Concord, which is anticipated to be released in 2027.

Alex currently leads an educational initiative in Northeastern Massachusetts that introduces high school students to careers in advanced manufacturing, construction, and the skilled trades. He resides in Massachusetts with his wife, Paula, and they have two adult children, John and Abigail. The fact that they are named after John and Abigail Adams is purely a coincidence.

This lecture will be held at the Monterey Meeting House, 449 Main Rd, Monterey and via Zoom. Zoom tickets need to be purchased in advance but in-person tickets can be purchased either in advance or at the door.

A Zoom link will be sent 2-3 days in advance of the presentation.

For in-person attendees, there is limited parking on the street in front of the Meeting House and additional parking behind Monterey Town Hall, a 2 minute walk down the road.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

449 Main Rd, 449 Main Road, Monterey, United States

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