You may have heard of Paul Revere’s legendary midnight ride in history class. But it is only part of the rich history that makes up Boston and New England. If you’re a Revolutionary War buff or interested in the early history of our nation in general, spring and summer are the perfect times to charter a bus and not only retrace Paul Revere’s steps, but visit many of the other Revolutionary War sites in the area.
A one-day bus trip leaving from anywhere in the Boston area would allow you and your group time to visit many of the sites mentioned below. A two-day trip would give your group enough time to really immerse yourselves in the rich history of the Revolutionary War and spend time in Boston.
Paul Revere House
For a great start to your Revolutionary War tour, you can take a visit to Paul Revere House, the starting point of his famous journey. The Paul Revere features an Education and Visitor Center, a museum shop, and a chance to meet re-enactors and schedule tours and activities. Paul Revere House is also a great jumping-off point for visiting other nearby historical locations, such as Pierce / Hichborn House, Lathrop Place, and North End (one of Boston’s original colonial neighborhoods).
Paul Revere’s Ride
On April 18, 1775, Dr. Joseph Warren of Boston warned Paul Revere and William Dawes that British troops were about to leave Boston in boats bound for Cambridge and the road to Concord and Lexington. Unless someone alerted the militias in the towns nearby, the king’s troops could well end up arresting and capturing Samuel Adams and John Hancock in Lexington and destroying valuable supplies in Concord.
Revere set out on his famous ride to warn the Colonials of the approaching British regulars. Revere crossed the Charles River in secret by rowboat, slipping past British warships, and rode to Lexington. He then proceeded through Somerville, Medford, and Arlington, warning every house and colonials along the way of the impending British approach. Many of those patriots went on to go on rides of their own, meaning there were perhaps forty riders throughout the county bringing the news. Although Revere did not shout “The British are coming!” as the legends say, nonetheless he roused a state of alarm that mobilized the local militia. Revere was captured and questioned at gunpoint, but the damage was done: the colonials were ready for the British army.
Historic New England
Historic New England is not a single locale, but thirty-five house museums spanning four centuries of life from Massachusetts to Maine. Book a coach bus and visit a family farm, enjoy a wine and cheese stroll in Salem, take a walking tour of Rocks village, or visit one of many historic farms, houses, and castles. Revolutionary War enthusiasts may be particularly interested in periodical Revolutionary War Encampment events in Newbury, where you can meet re-enacted soldiers from both sides of the war and enjoy food and drink while you learn fascinating historical details.
Minute Man National Historical Park
For the true Revolutionary War enthusiast, Minute Man National Historical Park is not to be missed. Located in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, the park pays tribute to the opening battle in the Revolutionary War. Points of note include the five-mile “Battle Road Trail” between Lexington and Concord, where Paul Revere was captured during his famous ride, which features as a restored 18th-century inn; and the North Bridge at Concord, where colonials gave the order to fire back at the British for the first time (the “shot heard round the world”). The park offers guided tours, educational programs, and re-enactment events.
Boston National Historical Park
Located in Dorchester Heights in South Boston, this national historical park is where George Washington set up fortifications in the hills above the harbor to surprise the British. Setting up artillery he had received earlier in 1776, Washington laid siege to the city below, forcing the British to evacuate Boston, who sailed out of the harbor on March 17. Attractions include the Bunker Hill Monument in Charlestown, the Charlestown Navy Yard, Faneuil Hall (site of many pro-independence speeches since the 1740s), and the Old North Church.
Fort Griswold State Park
If you enjoy a sense of symmetry and want to range as far as Connecticut, you could head to Groton and Fort Griswold to visit the site of the last of the Revolutionary War’s New England battles. Fort Griswold was captured in a massacre by the turncoat Benedict Arnold as a diversion to keep George Washington from capturing Yorktown. Fort Griswold is a stop on the Thames River Heritage Water Taxi route, which should be opening for spring of 2017.
Do you have a thirst for history and an itch to travel? The time is right to take in some of these great historical sites! Metropolitan Shuttle specializes in helping put together a schedule, itinerary, and make every aspect of your trip comfortable and stress-free. Call us at 1-866-556-3545 or contact us today for a free quote, and see what Metropolitan Shuttle has to offer.
