Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Museum invite community members to the 249th Annual Prospect Hill Flag Raising on January 1, 2025. The event commemorates an iconic moment in American history. On this date in 1776, General George Washington raised the first American flag atop Prospect Hill. It marked a pivotal moment in the Revolutionary War. Each New Year’s Day, the City honors this legacy with a community celebration.
The event features remarks from local officials and historical reenactments. The Ancient & Honorable Artillery Company of Massachusetts and Revolutionary War reenactors will lead a ceremonial parade. Organizers encourage community members of all ages to attend this tradition celebrating Somerville’s central role in America’s founding story.
The Prospect Hill Flag Raising kicks off Revolution 250, a’ celebration of the semiquincentennial of the American Revolution. It also belongs to Massachusetts 250, which describes itself as follows:
“In 2025 and 2026, Massachusetts 250 will commemorate the many battles across the state that led to America’s independence. Experience the birthplace of American Liberty, where history was made, and the future was forged. In Massachusetts, we are embracing our history, the untold and little-known stories; we are celebrating our independence and innovations from the past 250 years. Join us – from the hills of the Berkshires to the Blackstone Valley, from the North and South Shore to the Cape and the islands – as we commemorate big events and untold stories and celebrate the revolutions still to come.”
Massachusetts isn’t the only New England state with a robust Revolutionary history. Find out what else will happen in 2025 throughout the region with the New England Historical Society’s updated book, “Revolutionary War Sites in New England.” It includes a listing for the Prospect Hill Flag Raising as well as a full calendar of events for 2025. The book also has itineraries for Revolutionary road trips, a complete index of Revolutionary landmarks and a listing of historic taverns, forts and museums.
Click here to order your copy today.