WE DON'T RIDE ALONE

I just finished reading, The RIDE Paul Revere and the Night That Saved America, by Kostya Kennedy.  The author details the events leading up to Revere’s famous ride, warning colonists that British troops were advancing from Boston to Concord, seeking to destroy Patriot resistance to the Crown.  I can honestly say that I learned much more than I had expected.  Did I sleep through my American History class?

            Those of us from a certain age may have gotten early knowledge of the Revolutionary War and our fight for freedom from British rule, from reading Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes or, from watching the 1957 Disney movie of the same name.  Some have read Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s account of that historical incident, “Paul Revere’s Ride,” written eighty-seven years later.  Exciting as these references are, you and I know that historical accuracy and poetic license do not always go hand in hand. This was a story much larger than that of one man.

IT TOOK

            The Redcoats kept a close eye on the goings of known Patriots living in Boston.  The town was in a virtual lockdown with soldiers patrolling the roads.  By the same token, all eyes were on the comings and goings of the soldiers, and word made it back to those who needed to strategize the Patriot’s next step.  A farmer or blacksmith might listen in to solders talking amongst themselves at the local tavern or on a street corner.  A wife might hear of an impending raid while serving dinner to some high-ranking military men quartered in their home.  Locals kept watch on ships entering the harbor and the number of soldiers it carried as well as the armament.

IT TOOK

            Two young men made their way to the Old North Church, one waited below while the other made the precarious climb up to the church’s tower, two lanterns strapped over his neck.  Soldiers were everywhere, ready to arrest anyone on the streets during curfew.  If the signal shone more than a few moments, the enemy would surely respond. 

IT TOOK

            Revere was not the only rider sent to warn of the coming of the British troops.  Other riders took to the back roads and main thoroughfares to notify others in the area.  Revere did not make it all the way to Concord, having been captured by British troops but another rider, Doctor Prescott makes it to Concord and beyond.  Men, probably women as well, on horseback and on foot, sounded the alarm and hundreds of citizens stood their ground, carrying guns and pitchforks.  The British realized that the Patriots were not about to give up their freedom but would fight.  War was imminent.

            When asked about his famous ride of April 18, 1875, Revere was quick to acknowledge the many people involved.  The effort took the skills and determination, and courage of so many individuals.  As we get close to our country’s 250^th Anniversary, I can’t help but think of that one spark of rebellion that ignited the birth of our nation.

            Let’s ride together!

BTW  Did you know that Paul Revere practiced dentistry?

BTW  A popular drink served at local taverns at that time consisted of Rum, Beer, Molasses, and Egg. This was than imbibed warm.  Uggggggg

Sharon