Two hundred fifty years have passed since the pivotal night of April 18, 1775, a date immortalized by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s verse. On that historic evening, Paul Revere and fellow riders awaited the signal from the Old North Church in Boston’s North End. The iconic phrase “One if by land, and two if by sea” signified a British approach by water, prompting Revere to alert colonial militias of the advancing troops.
This momentous event was commemorated on Friday afternoon in the lobby of the Wood Museum of Springfield History. Springfield Mayor Domenic J. Sarno and state Representative Carlos Gonzalez marked the occasion by hanging replica lamps, symbolizing the first skirmishes of the American Revolution at Lexington and Concord. These efforts align with a broader state-wide initiative orchestrated by Gonzalez, who chairs the Western Massachusetts delegation in the state House of Representatives. The initiative serves as a reminder of the enduring importance of unity and collaboration in shaping the future.
The replica lanterns, part of a set of 108, emulate those purportedly used by colonists in 1775. However, the addition of a subtle Red Sox logo on one lamp introduces a modern twist to their historical accuracy. Gonzalez emphasized the lamps’ significance as a reminder of Massachusetts’ role in the revolution and the commencement of the 250th anniversary of Revere’s ride. He underscored the need for unity in current divisive times, drawing parallels to the collective efforts that secured American independence.
In addition to Springfield, lamps were displayed in Boston’s Old North Church, Fall River, Danvers, and Worcester. Mayor Sarno highlighted Springfield’s historical significance as a crucial community during the revolution, particularly noting its selection by General George Washington as the site for the nation’s first and most vital armory.
Joining the commemoration, members of the Western Massachusetts delegation, including state Senator Adam Gomez and state Representatives Bud Williams, Brian Ashe, and Carlos Gonzalez, participated in the ceremonial hanging of a replica lamp. This act serves as a tribute to the enduring spirit of cooperation and resolve that defined the early actions of the American Revolution.