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The Cambridge Historical Society invites you to:
Cambridge and its Role in the American Revolution
Colonel Thomas Gardner: Cambridge's Revolutionary War Hero
Click here to see photos of the event
Talk given by Michael Bonislawski, Ph.D.
Followed by re-enactment by the Charlestown Militia
Sunday March 15, 2009 2:00-4:00 PM
Carriage House - Longfellow National Historic Site
105 Brattle Street - Cambridge, Mass
Cambridge citizens played a pivotal role in the American Revolution. All male citizens above the age of fifteen were required to serve in their local militia. One of Cambridge’s most active citizens was Thomas Gardner. In 1774, Colonel Thomas Gardner organized men from Cambridge and other towns, into what became known as Gardner’s Regiment. During the Battle of Bunker Hill, General Artemis Ward ordered Gardner’s Regiment to Lechmere Point to counter a potential British landing in Cambridge. The heroic actions of Gardner’s Regiment slowed a British onslaught which allowed militiamen to retreat from Bunker Hill and find safe refuge on Prospect Hill in Somerville (then a part of Charlestown). Colonel Gardner died of wounds received at the battle. General Washington eulogized Thomas Gardner for his sacrifices for the cause.
Michael Bonislawski is a life-long Cambridge resident, professor of history at Salem State, and a reenactor.
RSVP to rsvp@cambridgehistory.org or call 617-547-4252 to reserve a seat.
Check our website for any last-minute changes due to weather.
The Cambridge Historical Society would like to thank The Longfellow National Historic Site for providing space for our meeting during the painting and re-interpretation of the Hooper-Lee-Nichols House.
