Redcoat March: Leslie’s Retreat Reenactment
February 22
The City of Salem announces a series of events commemorating the 250th anniversary of “Leslie’s Retreat,” the first armed resistance to British authority in the lead up to the American Revolution.
On Feb. 26, 1775, British Lt. Col. Alexander Leslie’s attempted seizure of colonial weapons in Salem resulted in a peaceful resolution through negotiation – just weeks before the battles of Lexington and Concord. While bloodshed was narrowly avoided in Salem, the confrontation was the first active resistance by the colonists during the war.
Alexander Leslie
While Salem community members have commemorated the anniversary of Leslie’s Retreat every February, this year’s events are particularly momentous. They mark the start of Rev250 and the 250th commemoration of the American Revolution and the nation’s independence. Leslie’s Retreat 250 is a cooperative partnership between Salem 400+, the City’s quadricentennial commemoration and the Leslie’s Retreat SR Steering Committee. Together they spearhead and work in cooperation with individuals and institutions to present a series of community events to mark the 250th anniversary of Leslie’s Retreat.
“Leslie’s Retreat represents a crucial moment in Salem’s and America’s history,” said Virginia “Gini” Cherol, coordinator for Salem 400+. “This commemoration honors the courage and wisdom of our predecessors while highlighting the importance of diplomatic resolution.”
“The events of Feb. 26, 1775, are of enormous historical significance for Salem and for our nation,” said Salem Mayor Dominick Pangallo. “They reflect the resilience and strength of this community and of the colonists more broadly. I want to thank all the organizers who helped make February’s celebrations possible, and I invite everyone to join us as we commemorate this important chapter of America’s story here in Salem!”
Leslie’s Retreat
On February 26, 1775, just weeks before the shots at Lexington and Concord, Salem witnessed what could have been the first battle of the American Revolution. When British Lt. Col. Alexander Leslie and his troops attempted to seize colonial weapons, they were met with remarkable resistance at Salem’s North Bridge. Courage, diplomacy and level-headed leadership prevented bloodshed but demonstrated American resolve.
Experience history come alive as we recreate this dramatic confrontation at its original location. Watch as historical reenactors portray the tense standoff between British troops and Salem’s citizens.
Be part of this remarkable commemoration as we honor the courage, wisdom and restraint shown by both sides during this critical moment in American history. This event offers a unique opportunity to witness and understand how Salem’s citizens stood firm in defense of their rights while avoiding the outbreak of war—if only for a few more weeks.
Schedule for Leslie’s Retreat Commemoration
9:30am Speaking Portion at St. Peter’s San Pedro’s Episcopal Church 24 St. Peter’s Street, Salem, MA
11am Leslie’s Retreat Redcoat March to North Bridge
12-4pm Self Guided Tours of St. Peter’s San Pedro Episcopal Church 24 St. Peter’s Street, Salem, MA
12:30pm Salem-Marblehead Trolley Tour lead by Judy Anderson starting at St. Peter’s San Pedro Episcopal Church
2:30pm Salem-Marblehead Trolley Tour lead by Judy Anderson starting at St. Peter’s San Pedro Episcopal Church
Reservations encouraged. Call 781-631-1762. Trolley boards at 12:15 and 2:15. Everyone with a reservation must be on the trolley by 12:20 or 2:20. Remaining seats will be available on a first-come first-served basis. So, be present at St. Peter’s Church before 12:20.
2:30pm “Fashion in the Season of Revolution: A Panel Discussion & Revolutionary Reenactor Promenade” free with admission to the Peabody Essex Museum 161 Essex Street, Salem, Mass.
7:30pm Revolution Ball at Hamilton Hall 9 Chestnut Street, Salem, Mass.
Salem 400+
Salem 400+ commemorates Salem’s quadricentennial while acknowledging the preexisting indigenous community. It also explores the opportunities and connections of Salem’s multifaceted history while crafting a vision for current and future generations.
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