Warning: This 250-Year-Old Story Still Gives Goosebumps
The day that farmers and shopkeepers changed the world forever.
Past Lane Pursuits is a weekly newsletter of Past Lane Travels, a history/travel blog that provides inspiration for discovering historical sites, hidden gems and small towns.
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April 18-19 marks the 250th anniversary of the Battles of Lexington and Concord
April 18, 2025, marks a monumental moment in American history—the 250th anniversary of the battles of Lexington and Concord. This day, one of the most pivotal in our nation's story, reminds us that ordinary men—farmers, shopkeepers, and blacksmiths—stood up to an empire and changed the world forever.
The Dawn of a Revolution
On the morning of April 19, 1775, history was made on the village greens of Lexington and Concord.
These were not soldiers but civilians, armed with little more than their belief in liberty. Their stand against the British marked the beginning of the American Revolution, a fight for freedom that would echo throughout history.
As we approach this 250th anniversary (tomorrow!), it’s a perfect time to reflect on the bravery of those who fought and what their actions mean for us today.
A Midnight Ride and the First Shots Fired
On the night of April 18, 1775, the British began their secret march toward Concord to seize military supplies. But the colonists were ready. Paul Revere’s (and others) midnight ride, his warning cry, and the calls of alarm that rang out through the countryside were the prelude to what would become the first shots of the revolution.
The British were not prepared for the resistance they encountered. In Lexington, eight patriots were killed, and several others wounded in the first clash. This was only the beginning.
The Shot Heard Around the World
As the British retreated toward Concord, the militias fought back, determined to defend their homes and their rights. The stand at North Bridge became a symbol of American resolve. The British were forced to retreat, their first defeat in what would become a long and hard-fought war for independence.
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Take A Revolutionary Road Trip
Want to experience the history of Lexington and Concord firsthand? A visit to these New England towns is the perfect way to connect with the past and celebrate the 250th anniversary. Whether you’re a history buff or a traveler looking to explore the roots of our nation’s independence, these iconic sites will bring the stories of April 1775 to life.
Here’s a special two-day itinerary to guide you through the historic landmarks of Lexington and Concord:
Day 1 – Lexington:
Lexington Battle Green
1625 Massachusetts Ave, Lexington, MA
Site of the first shots of the American Revolution.Buckman Tavern
1 Bedford St, Lexington, MA
The gathering place for the militia before the battle.Hancock-Clarke House
36 Hancock St, Lexington, MA
Where John Hancock and Samuel Adams spent the night before the battle.
Day 1 – Concord:
North Bridge / Minute Man Park
174 Liberty St, Concord, MA
The site where “the shot heard ‘round the world” was fired.The Old Manse
269 Monument St, Concord, MA
Home of patriot minister William Emerson and later the literary home of Louisa May Alcott and Nathaniel Hawthorne.Concord Museum
53 Cambridge Turnpike, Concord, MA
Revolutionary War artifacts, including an original lantern from the Old North Church.
Day 2 – Trail:
Meriam’s Corner
751 Lexington Rd, Concord, MA
Site of a major ambush during the British retreat.Paul Revere Capture Site
180 N Great Rd, Lincoln, MA
Where Paul Revere was detained during his famous ride.Hartwell Tavern
112 N Great Rd, Lincoln, MA
The site where militias clashed with the British.Bloody Angle
Near Old Bedford Rd, Lincoln, MA
A deadly site of ambush during the British retreat along the Battle Road.
Celebrate the Revolution: It’s Not Just About the Past, It’s About the Future
For more on the Lexington and Concord 250th anniversary events, visit Lexington 250 and Visit Concord.
Want to continue your historical exploration? Check out my Revolution Road Trip page for more destinations tied to America's revolutionary past.
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”Fans of historical fiction, romance and adventure will be easily drawn into this absorbing read.” - Amazon Review
☛ Old Words
Here is this week’s old word!
Word: Peradventure
Meaning: Perhaps; possibly; by chance
Usage (historical style): "Peradventure, we shall meet again before the season ends."
This word was common in English literature and conversation through the 17th and 18th centuries, often lending a poetic or thoughtful tone. It fits beautifully in a historically themed newsletter—especially one that values the elegance of forgotten language.
Answer to Last Week’s Trivia Quiz: Congratulations to those who answered Coffins as the item commonly sold in general hardware stores. (Kind of wish I could buy an old pine box at the local hardware store today).