Remembering April 19, 1775
Living just steps from where the American Revolution began makes what happend 250 years ago all the more palpable for me
“Here once the embattled farmers stood and fired the shot heard round the world.”
—Ralph Waldo Emerson, Concord Hymn, 1837
Hi everyone, some of you may recognize this post from last year. In light of this year’s big 250th anniversary celebration happening this weekend in Concord, Massachusetts, it feels even more meaningful to share it again with additional images and context (…like, why exactly did the Colonials rise up against the British king?)
Below you’ll find the enhanced version of last year’s photo journey with additional images made by my husband, Jay. The explanations of “Why?” can be found in the footnotes at the bottom of this page.
I get why people go to historic reenactments. They make you feel like you’ve just been teleported to a past life that is still very real and very much alive.
This is especially true for me, being as attuned to spaces and energies as I am.
Living in Concord, Massachusetts — just steps from where the American Revolution began — makes what happend on April 19, 1775, all the more palpable for me.
And here we are 250 years later!
You can almost hear the pounding of Paul Revere’s horse and other horsemen as they fanned out and raced to get the word out (they’re coming by sea!); feel the dogged determination of thousands of farmers as they walked all night to answer the call for independence; sense the courageous presence of women and men who put their whole lives and livelihoods on the line for freedom, justice, and a better future for all. 1
I’m nervous just thinking about them even though I know how it all turns out.
The British Regulars (also known as the Redcoats) are in for a big surprise when they encounter their fiercely determined and well-organized foe.
The events that transpired remind me of this quote attributed to African-American writer and activist, Adrienne Maree Brown:
“Things are not getting worse, they’re getting uncovered.”
Here’s the video clip I made in 2024. It’s dedicated to those courageous souls who fought for equality and freedom. (Best with sound)
And this — just in — from 2025:
Is there a historical event, figure, or act of courage that you’d like to honor today?
If so, tell us in the comments and let us join you in remembering those who blazed the trail before us.
Ahhh 🙏🏼
A more detailed look at the key reasons why the Colonials fought:
“The Colonists fought the British primarily due to a desire for independence and self-governance, fueled by issues like taxation without representation, unfair trade practices, and British attempts to impose greater control over the colonies.
Taxation without representation:
Colonists felt they were being taxed by the British Parliament without having any elected representatives to voice their concerns. Acts like the Sugar Act, Stamp Act, and Tea Act sparked widespread protests.
Unfair trade practices:
British policies, such as those related to trade with other nations, were seen as restrictive and harmful to the colonial economy.
British control and Intolerable Acts:
The British government's increasing attempts to exert control over the colonies, including the Intolerable Acts (which were specifically aimed at Massachusetts), led to a growing sense of oppression and resentment.
Quartering of Troops:
The Quartering Act, which required colonists to house and provide for British soldiers, was seen as a violation of their rights and privacy.
Lack of self-governance:
Colonists wanted to have more say in their own affairs and to be free from what they perceived as British tyranny.
These issues, combined with the influence of Enlightenment ideals about liberty and equality, ultimately led to the American Revolution and the colonists' fight for independence.”
Quite amazing, Stephanie! I imagine it is quite powerful -- even seeing your photos is something, especially all the soldiers marching along the road. Thanks for sharing them. And let's just hope that democracy will continue to reign. . .
A very poignant reflection for me and grounding in this current chaotic governance! Thank you for this moment!