The King of Battle: Artillery and the Siege of Boston

On the afternoon of April 19, 1775 a reinforcement column led by British Brig. Gen. Hugh Percy arrived in Lexington to rescue the battered British soldiers retreating from Concord. As Militia soldiers swarmed through Lexington the boom of two 6-pounder British artillery pieces echoed across the town and sent the militiamen scattering for cover.
In the days and weeks that followed, provincial militia soldiers brought their own artillery to bare on the city of Boston.

Join Park Rangers and Living History Volunteers at Minute Man National Historical Park to learn about these important weapons. Programs will be held at 11am and 2pm. Firing will be dependent on weather and cannon crew. Hartwell Tavern will be open from 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

This event is co-sponsored by Friends of Minute Man National Park

The Importance of Artillery

Learn about the importance of artillery to both the Crown and Provincial forces during the events of 1775 and the creation of the Continental Army. One reason was shock and awe. The thunderous roar and destructive power of cannons demoralized enemy troops and disrupted formations. Secondly, artillery served as a force multiplier.  A single cannon could inflict heavy casualties or break infantry lines, making it a key tool for both offense and defense.

About Minute Man National Historical Park

Minute Man National Historical Park commemorates the first battles of the American Revolution, specifically the Battles of Lexington and Concord. The park also offers visitors a chance to explore significant historical sites and trails.

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Learn more Revolutionary history in this complete guide to Revolutionary War Sites in New England. Brought to you by the New England Historical Society. Click here to order your copy in paperback, here to order an ebook.