Join the Revolution - Townsend Living History Encampment

Join us as the shot heard round the world rings out in Townsend once again! On Saturday, May 11, visit the Preservation Collaborative, Inc. and the Townsend Minutemen at the Townsend Historical Society’s Open House. This daylong event will feature an old time encampment at the Reed House at 72 Main Street in Townsend Harbor from 10am through 4pm.

Throughout the day, the Townsend Historical Society will be giving tours of their circa 1809 Federal Style dwelling which was owned by several generations of the Reed Family. It is best known for its Rufus Porter murals which can still be seen in vivid detail. Volunteer reenactors will set up camp, perform military drills, having musket firings and demonstrating tactics of the eighteenth century. Civilian reenactors will be demonstrating period crafts and activities, among which include: lace making, candle dipping, writing, toys and games. You will also be offered a rare glimpse into cooking as they demonstrate preparation of noontime lunch on the Reed House’s own kitchen hearth!

The event seeks to demonstrate life during the turbulent times in Boston during the Siege from April 19^th, 1775, through March 17, 1776. Prior, British troops occupied Boston in an attempt to quell strong sentiments against the crown, due in part to the Stamp, Sugar and Townshend acts, Boston Massacre and Tea Party. Everything came to a head that April when a column of troops attempted to seize stores of arms and munitions. The rest, as we know, is history.

Townsend played an important role in these early days of the Revolution. Having received Paul Revere’s message from another rider, the militia assembled on the common and marched to North Bridge. They later partook in events at Bunker Hill and even Dorchester Heights, which ultimately drove the British from the City on a Hill. They ratified the Declaration of Independence when it arrived in October of 1776 and finally, continued to have men serving in various capacities until the war ended in 1781. This rich heritage is important to remember, celebrate and actively partake in.

This daylong celebration is for you and your family. Come down and get a hands on experience. General admission is $15 or is free with a Townsend Historical Society Membership. All children under the age of 18 come free! For more information, please contact event coordinator Ryan D. Hayward at: Info@Preservation-Collaborative.com. We hope to see you in May!

This program is funded in part by a grant from the Townsend Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency; in partnership with: The Preservation Collaborative Inc., Townsend Historical Society and Townsend Minutemen Company.