⭐ If you've watched a few episodes and feel like I've earned it, be sure to subscribe so that you don't miss any new content when it comes out. Also be sure to check out The Gettysburg Museum of History and their store at gettysburgmuseumofhistory.com.
I know just about everyone misnames the fight with the King of the U.K. I call it The War for American lndependence. A revolution is defined as two or more factions fighting for control of a government,right or wrong?
It amazes me that 13 colonies were able to take down one the biggest empires in history. It just shows what determination and will can really do. Thank god for these men. My 6th great grandfather fought in the revolution. It makes me proud to know my family fought to found this country.
I’m taking my 11 year old here tommorow as we head toward Boston on our summer road trip. I can’t wait to see it myself. This year, they studied the American Revolution in 5th grade and took field trips to the American Revolution Museum in Philly & Washington’s Crossing. I am hoping she is learning what people sacrificed for this country and how truly blessed we are
You know this is a legit effort when it’s pronounced “concoared”. I am a mass local and really love your historical content. As a kid who grew up near by we take it for granted. Thank you.
Agreed! I grew up in Acton and the homes of patriots were what we just drove by on our way to school. As a child I had a basic understanding but as an adult- much appreciation.
My 6th great grandfather Daniel Littlefield was a Minuteman at the Battle of L & C. My 5th great grandfather Simeon Dewey fought at Ticonderoga and my 2nd cousin is Sam Adams. Thank you for finally covering the Revolutionary War. I've been to these places and the history is incredible!
Thank you for such an in-depth look of the beginnings of the Revolution. We are visiting Boston soon and found your series helpful in understanding the revolution. I appreciate your non commercial videos. Thanks!
With a degree in Military History from Boston, I really enjoy the way JD and the channel team personalize these military actions. Yes, war includes tactics, movement, firepower, protection, information, and leadership - but at its core, it is about people. That is what I feel from every episode. Thank you for the hard work on the channel. It's appreciated!
My 6th great grandfather Daniel Littlefield was a Minuteman at the Battle of Lexington and Concord. My 5th great grandfather Simeon Dewey fought at Ticonderoga and my 2nd cousin is Sam Adams. Thank you for finally covering the Revolutionary War. I've been to these places and the history is incredible!
I live in a neighboring community of Lexington/Concord and have visited many historic sites in the local area. Still, your presentation of historical events is very enjoyable. I appreciate your skill!
The best way to teach history is to describe what it probably felt like to be in the shoes of someone who was there. You do an excellent job of this: "Imagine you're a British soldier..." you're scared, exhausted, it's loud and chaotic, acrid smoke billows around, and it's mass confusion...you know you might die or be grievously wounded... It must have been a relief for that British soldier to return to the safety of Boston, and greater firepower. Looking forward to the next video!
the americans only won the war beacause of france and spains help you should know that they would have lost a fact , also more americans died than brits , in 1812 brits came back and won
Across the pond here. Every time I see a marker/grave for any fallen soldier it just makes me so sad that another man who didn't really want to die in war was killed because some rich old white man wanted people to do what he wanted; and no one remembers his name War is madness. Happy holidays to everyone and thanks for a great year of episodes THU.
The History Underground: teaching history to the masses, and saving people's hands from frostbite. Great video! Always new about the battles of Lexington and Concord but never new about the fight on the way back to Boston.
It’s so much easier to put events together when you walk us through and explain the timeline of events, rather than reading them on historical markers here and there. I’ve become far more interested in this subject since seeing you put them together in this way.
WOW, what an honor to walk in their footsteps. I love when you explore a site like this because it always feels as if I am there. Thank you and Merry Christmas to you and your family.
Hi just catching up on your videos and love them. Edmund Foster is one of my son-in-law’s ancestors along with others in the founding of our country, there were eight Fosters who served in the Colonial Militia. To name a few, Deacon Edmund Rice, Reginald Foster of Ipswich, Roger Sherman of Connecticut and Senator George Frisbee Hoar of Massachusetts. This connection continued into contemporary times with Charles Foster who was instrumental in establishing the Cape Cod National Seashore.
You have an absolutely FANTASTIC channel sir! I love history depicted in this manner, and you do a great job with your narration…have a wonderful Holiday
Love your videos about Lexington and Concord. I was an Appleseed Project instructor and this is the history we cover during our marksmanship clinics. Very well done!
What marksmanship? Nobody here had a rifle in 1775. Muskets were collective weapons that functioned best when operated in volley fire. The colonists were firing at extreme range, just trying to hit anybody or anything among the packed masses of grenadiers on the road. The light infantry weren't supermen, but they kept the colonists generally about two hundred or more yards away from the flanks, even on the rear, the most difficult place to defend. Estimated consumption of ammunition that day by the colonists we at least thirty thousand rounds fired. The colonists killed 73 British soldiers, wounding many more, but the use of thirty thousand rounds certainly wasn't marksmanship. It was, rather, determination to not let the British get back to Boston without severe casualties.
While there may have been no rifles used on April 19th, 1775, there is thought that one man of some renowned might have been using one. Hezekiah Wyman of Woburn is said to have had a rifle, but I do not know if the record is clear. I have also seen contrary accounts about how he fought that day. Some information says that he rode his white mare to points ahead of the British column as it returned from Concord, would stop, dismount, and fire very accurately from distance. When he fired, he created casualties, reportedly. British soldiers referred to him as "Death". As far as marksmanship, four of the eight officers present for the engagement at The Old North Bridge were shot. Americans were not shooting at a mass of red coats and hoping to hit one. They apparently aimed at specific bright red coats.
Being a vet and a student of military history, I know that most armies require "after action reports" or some such document similarly named after encounters. I would bet somewhere in the annals of the British Military Archives, there could be a DETAILED after action report of the day's events. Wouldn't that be great reading. As always, superb stuff JD/
Being OIC of the Detachment I'd be looking to start with Lieutenant-Colonel Francis Smith, and the10th Regiment of Foot. He'd be the one responsible for filing the immediate AAR (JD do we know how badly he was injured in the rout from Bloody Bluff?). Then it'll be a case of following the Chain of Command up to the most senior British representative, in the Colonies. I'd suggest starting with our National Archives, section "WO1/WO2": War Office and predecessors: Secretary-at-War, Secretary of State for War, and Commander-in-Chief, In-letters and Miscellaneous Papers These consist of original despatches, letters and papers sent to the Secretary-at-War, 1755 to 1795, and to the Secretary of State for War, 1794 to 1865.
British military archives are excellent. In some cases the personal papers are also available online. I found those of major montressor, the senior participated in the French and Indian wars, his son in the American war of independence. I believe the jr.s portrait hangs in the Detroit museum abd his wife’s is in the White House (I think) both painted by John Copley. Fascinating detail. Some of the current American cities involved were laid out by these British engineers
@@GlasgowCeltic88 British Archives or early Journals/Diaries written in Colonial Mass. Much "First-hand Accounts" are retrieved by historians. Start at the War Office. Thanks.
Thanks for including this often neglected part of the Battle of Lexington and Concord. This may be the most important part of the battle, because it gave hope of success to the rebels. Without this, the battle could have been an isolated incident. But it inspired rebels in other colonies to resist the Brits.
Sir, your video account put me right in on the happenings of that day. Truly gripping God save "unruly colonists"! Both sides of the fallen are marked - truly remarkable and edifying for posterity.
With so much focus on Lexington and Concord, the Battle Road is a hidden gem that many miss. What is more striking is the fact that in highly congested greater Boston it still exists and resisted getting paved out of existence over the years prior to the formation of the park. These videos are great for those that cannot see this in person or have perhaps read the David Hackett Fischer book about Revere's ride and the first day of the war and want to see the exact spots--relatively the same as they were (except for the growth). Great job.
What a great watch from the best "History Teacher." JD Did you make it by the "Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library?" It's on the corner of Massachusetts Ave and Marrett Rd. Thanks for your time, work and ALL your walking.
Thank you, JD, for the American Revolution series. I have been waiting for something like this. You are covering it so well and showing things I never knew. Great content! I hope you and your family have a Blessed Christmas!
In 2019 I got to tour the Jason Russell house where the bloodiest fighting took place on April 19, 1775. Bullet holes can still be seen in the house. I love all these colonial homes that are still standing. The ones you showed are amazing.
I took my 8-yr-old son to see the North Bridge on New Year’s Eve this year, when we crossed the bridge and he saw the Old Manse house, he wanted to check it out and actually wanted to take a tour. We had an awesome day, and as we left Concord we stopped at the Civil War memorial in the town center for a picture. I think I’ve lit a fire in his brain, which I’m very excited about!
I think that it shows so much respect that there are Union Flags on the grave markers for the British soldiers that died. Long live the red white and blue of our great countries
This video looks like an invitation for a nice long walk or a bike ride! Those markers were calling me! I've biked 20 miles round trip on my city's bike trail. And I loved your shout out for the missing glove. I couldn't believe the number of missing gloves I saw at a theme park this past weekend.
Great camera work, as always. Here's another thought that came to mind for me. Since the British Regulars first met the colonial militia at Lexington around 5am, they'd been on the move since... 1am? 2am? And by the time they got to Concord around 1pm, they'd covered maybe 18-20 miles? And then they turned around and got harassed for the rest of the afternoon... for another 10 miles at least (back to Lexington) or more, back all the way to Boston. That's a really REALLY long day (they got their steps in). Keep up the good work, JD! You have a gift for telling these important stories.
@@boondocker7964 All of these were lacking. Captain Smith had expected a quick march out and back to confiscate some arms. And it's not as thought they could stop and refill canteens on the way back, either.
Lived near this area my entire life, visited the bridge and Lexington several times, but never knew about the battle road and the chasing of the British back to Boston. You've inspired me to visit again and look for that trail myself. Well done, and thanks!
You literally live my dream life, traveling the world seeing the best sites of history! Maybe one day I’ll figure out how to make it work but until then thank you for your content and efforts, been following you for over two years now and love seeing how you’ve grown, watch every single episode!
As a young girl of 15 years, I decided to take Latin in school, (I am not a Catholic) it proved to be a great decision, as I still have my Companion to Caesar 55 years later. That alone inspired a passion for military strategies. General Patton was also inspired by Julius Caesar.
@@TheHistoryUnderground I’m guessing your students get the benefit of some of your “moonlighting.” Some might even appreciate it. I’m not disparaging today’s youth it’s just that adolescence is a challenging stage. One of my best high school teachers brought American history alive for me. James Fleet at Kennedy High School, Denver Co, circa 1968. You will likely be similarly remembered by many of your students.
I know you had to rush it but just want to point out Bloody angle, Hartwell Tavern, Paul Revere Capture site are all in the town of Lincoln. The Lincoln minutemen played a role that day. If you ever visit again the Lincoln Cemetery, Lincoln Library, Stone Church, Pierce House( now a town owned wedding venue, Flint farm and many other historic buildings would make a cool episode.
I grew up a few miles from this place. I have spent countless days walking the route and reading everything I could find with details of that battle. Individual stories and fist hand accounts are numerous. Great video.
Bravo, JD! A terrific series on the start of the American Revolution. Thank you for taking us along for the ride. Fascinating. Can’t imagine what those British soldiers were feeling along the Bloody Road back to Boston. Those British graves stand as lonley testaments to the violence of that day. Thank you again.Keep up the solid work.
Great work, JD. A clear (and illuminating) telling of a very messy story. It’s very New England that while sites are preserved, life goes on, people still live in those houses, and those roads are still used as they were then, even if they are now paved! The swirl of humanity is a bit mind boggling, but that’s our history!
Having grown up there, I remember the beginning of Minuteman National Park. Congress authorized the Park Service to buy up selected residential and commercial property along the route where the plan was for open fields. Residents who sold were allowed to keep their houses as long as they lived in them, but then houses were demolished. I hope your viewers will appreciate that places like this don't just happen. They are the result of government action and the cooperation of many individuals.
Traveling is the system to participate in change that our Earth undergoes every day. Getting educated, exploring, living different realities from environment usual helps to interpret the splendor of the planet. Accounts like this represent a good chance to travel without having to leave your home. Each of us should be able travel and visit your travel destinations. Thank you for published information collected in your travels.
Another outstanding episode JD. I do hope that you continue with the American Revolution series (I voted for it in your poll) there is so much history that is being forgotten about sadly.
It looks so peaceful there. It's hard to imagine there was a time where that same place was not so peaceful. I really like the respect shown the British soldiers who died a long way from home.
It has been several years since I last visited the Lexington-Concord areas. After viewing this excellent video, I need to return again & walk the sites JD showed. Thanks.
Fantastic episode. I have loved the history of this day all my life. I went to a lot of these places on school field trips, and then when I got old enough to drive, would visit the battlefields from time to time. Walking Battle Road is an experience. Unlike other battlefields from that time, in many places, it would have looked very similar. You did a great job of showing the geography and placement of where the forces were in relation to each other. Nice job! Thank you for the episode!
I just watched your Lexington and Concord video, and when I was watching it I said to myself that you couldn’t be there without walking battle road. Glad I found this channel. You Sir, are doing great work here.
It’s amazing to stand before a British soldiers grave and to think that 5 or 6 feet beneath where you are standing is a soldier who gave his life defending the crown as it were. I really can’t comprehend how England thought they could win this. If we were only separated by a few hundred miles instead of thousands, it’s possible this may have turned out much differently. I’m glad it ended the way it did. Merry Christmas to all!
You have to remember Britain was a superpower. We didn't even have an army. But Britain had been in a war with France. That was where the taxes were going - to pay for that war.
I had the same feeling when I found the grave of a Texas Revolution Veteran casually located in my city cemetery. Learning about history in school, it all seemed almost "make-believe," like a fable or legend we were supposed to learn. Seeing that grave not only reminded me how old my own community is, but also reminded me that the history was very, very real, forged by real people who lived and walked on the same ground we stand on today.
Thanks JD! It’s been over 30 years since I’ve been there. I’ll have to get back. I could see some similarities to Custer’s Last Stand. For the most part, how Custer went down into Little Bighorn valley to face all the angry Indians in the Dakotas. They were primed to fight the 7h Cav. Gage sent Lt. CoL. Francis Smith into the country side, only to find all the angry, Colonials In Massachusetts. The Colonials were no less angry against the British. They were fortunate they were only 12 miles from Boston. Anymore distance, they would have been known as the lost battalion.
It is wicked cool you were able to see Lexington, Concord and the Battle Road. Hope you're able to come back to New England to tell more of these stories. Great work, sir
Very well done, JD. You have "salted my oats" to visit this are again. There is a very well done 1988 made for TV movie called "April Morning" that I would recommend to you. It is available for free here on TH-cam.
My favorite part about the battle is the fact that wounded British soldiers sought and received care in the homes of owners that were shooting at them.
Really enjoying this series man. When I was a young boy I saw the Patriot and have been baffled just like the British on how a bunch of farmers were able to rally together and make a country out of just few colonies. Keep up the great work man. Would love to see more paintings of the people we are talking about to put a face to the event.
My many times grandfather , and his four brothers , were from Hesse Cassel Germany, they fought with the British army, but Half way through the war they changed sides and finished fighting for George Washington.
Absolutely fascinating!! That ball hole in that house made it all come alive. To see these sites and what they represent is so cool !! All I could think is I hope you do many more on the revolution and before
There was a militia casualty at Meriam's corner. My 6th Great Grandfather Moses Abbott was a 1st Lieutenant at the bridge. He took command of his men after his superior Captain Wilson was killed at Meriam's Corners. His men also chased the British back to Boston.
There was a guy by the name of Simon Kenton who crossed the pass with Daniel Boone when he blazed the trails into what was the west into the lands we now call Kentucky and Tennessee. Simon Kenton blazed further north into Ohio. Was captured and held hostage by some Native Americans for quite a few years. They tortured Simon during the time of his captivity and no matter what, they could not kill him. Nearly beating him to death, running a tortuous gauntlet of punishment and they could not kill him. They finally released Mr. Kenton after years of torture with a great admiration for this white man. Several memorials and statues have been erected in Simon Kenton’s honor in Kentucky and in Southeastern Ohio. I would love to see you do a presentation of this guy. And follow his path up into Ohio and his exploits.
Interesting video. I’ve always wanted to walk the Battle Road. But it seems the fighting continued into Arlington and Cambridge, as I’ve seen markers where British soldiers are buried there also from April 19, 1775.
I want this job. im a US Army Veteran and a major history nerd. I love your videos especially the German WW2 videos. i have been fascinated with the Third Reich as long as i can remember
You did it again thank you 👏🏻 . You’re right we did go back to Boston with our tail between our legs , I imagine it was like a scene from the Wild West . I’m surprised to see memorials to the fallen British soldiers , I love the respect given thank you 🇬🇧🇺🇸
Thanks again for taking me along to a place that has always been on my bucket list but has always been outside my ability to travel to! Keep up the great videos!!
As an ex Australian soldier l find war and or conflicts just soo sad. Many men and women die because of politics. R.I.P those brave people on both sides.
Great video. The fighting continued into Arlington where it got hot again at Arlington heights. This area is where the British soldiers began ransacking the houses and causing damage. The British set up a field hospital along the route in East Lexington as well to care for the wounded. They invaded one house in Arlington Center and were met by a lone farmer with a pistol who opened fire on them. He was bayonetted multiple times and left for dead. He survived and lived to be an old man. Where the tour took place use to be tar roadways and houses. The National Park services has been buying the houses in the area, razing them and returning the land to the way it looked in 1775. They are also clearing the land as it is mostly wooded land now where back then it was all open fields. Great video.
The early settlers wiped out the Old Growth Forests for Masts & Ships, Homes & Churches - Meeting Houses, Tools & Furniture and Cleared Farmland & Commons. Thanks.
@@benjaminrush4443 Those brick walls in New England that line the fields are in many cases 250 to 300 years old. They would clear the fields of rocks for the plows and trees. It was an agricultural society (Agrarian Society). The colonists were all farmers.
Hi JD. I’ve commented on another video you did on the Lex Green day. I hope you return to the area and visit Arlington. The Jason Russell House and Old Burying Ground (where he’s buried, among other troublemakers for the Brit. troops!) the Whittemore-Robbins House and Civil War Monument in the Center of town. Scribed on it is what I believe to be the Arlington residents who participated in combat during that war. I’m not perfectly clear on that so don’t hold me to it. Thanks again for your efforts. I really enjoy your channel.
⭐ If you've watched a few episodes and feel like I've earned it, be sure to subscribe so that you don't miss any new content when it comes out.
Also be sure to check out The Gettysburg Museum of History and their store at gettysburgmuseumofhistory.com.
I know just about everyone misnames the fight with the King of the U.K. I call it The War for American lndependence.
A revolution is defined as two or more factions fighting for control of a government,right or wrong?
Love that place
My 5th and 6th great grandfather's were at that battle alone with my 5th great uncle, their commander was captain parker.
It amazes me that 13 colonies were able to take down one the biggest empires in history. It just shows what determination and will can really do. Thank god for these men. My 6th great grandfather fought in the revolution. It makes me proud to know my family fought to found this country.
Helped that after 1778 Britain was fighting on multiply fronts which meant America became a sideshow.
And a lot of help from our friends the French
@@derekbayer8439they took forever to truly help granted did train the men but it was awhile before they fought with us
I’m taking my 11 year old here tommorow as we head toward Boston on our summer road trip. I can’t wait to see it myself. This year, they studied the American Revolution in 5th grade and took field trips to the American Revolution Museum in Philly & Washington’s Crossing. I am hoping she is learning what people sacrificed for this country and how truly blessed we are
I don't know how you retain so many details, but, your narration is so interesting. History comes alive! BRAVO!
You know this is a legit effort when it’s pronounced “concoared”. I am a mass local and really love your historical content. As a kid who grew up near by we take it for granted. Thank you.
Agreed! I grew up in Acton and the homes of patriots were what we just drove by on our way to school. As a child I had a basic understanding but as an adult- much appreciation.
My 6th great grandfather Daniel Littlefield was a Minuteman at the Battle of L & C. My 5th great grandfather Simeon Dewey fought at Ticonderoga and my 2nd cousin is Sam Adams. Thank you for finally covering the Revolutionary War. I've been to these places and the history is incredible!
Thank you for such an in-depth look of the beginnings of the Revolution. We are visiting Boston soon and found your series helpful in understanding the revolution. I appreciate your non commercial videos. Thanks!
With a degree in Military History from Boston, I really enjoy the way JD and the channel team personalize these military actions. Yes, war includes tactics, movement, firepower, protection, information, and leadership - but at its core, it is about people. That is what I feel from every episode. Thank you for the hard work on the channel. It's appreciated!
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My 6th great grandfather Daniel Littlefield was a Minuteman at the Battle of Lexington and Concord. My 5th great grandfather Simeon Dewey fought at Ticonderoga and my 2nd cousin is Sam Adams. Thank you for finally covering the Revolutionary War. I've been to these places and the history is incredible!
Love your videos! As a history nut, I love that you find little tid bits that the books passed over. Thank you.
I live in a neighboring community of Lexington/Concord and have visited many historic sites in the local area. Still, your presentation of historical events is very enjoyable. I appreciate your skill!
The best way to teach history is to describe what it probably felt like to be in the shoes of someone who was there. You do an excellent job of this: "Imagine you're a British soldier..." you're scared, exhausted, it's loud and chaotic, acrid smoke billows around, and it's mass confusion...you know you might die or be grievously wounded...
It must have been a relief for that British soldier to return to the safety of Boston, and greater firepower. Looking forward to the next video!
Appreciate that. Heck of a bad day for those guys.
the americans only won the war beacause of france and spains help you should know that they would have lost a fact , also more americans died than brits , in 1812 brits came back and won
@@paulmcdonough1093 We definitely won the war because of the French. But the French weren't at Lexington and Concord.
Across the pond here. Every time I see a marker/grave for any fallen soldier it just makes me so sad that another man who didn't really want to die in war was killed because some rich old white man wanted people to do what he wanted; and no one remembers his name War is madness. Happy holidays to everyone and thanks for a great year of episodes THU.
I do wish that we knew the names of the men who died in these spots. Merry Christmas to you as well! Thanks!
The History Underground: teaching history to the masses, and saving people's hands from frostbite. Great video! Always new about the battles of Lexington and Concord but never new about the fight on the way back to Boston.
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Fabulous effort. Remarkable history.
It’s so much easier to put events together when you walk us through and explain the timeline of events, rather than reading them on historical markers here and there. I’ve become far more interested in this subject since seeing you put them together in this way.
WOW, what an honor to walk in their footsteps. I love when you explore a site like this because it always feels as if I am there. Thank you and Merry Christmas to you and your family.
Thanks! So glad that you enjoyed it.
Hi just catching up on your videos and love them. Edmund Foster is one of my son-in-law’s ancestors along with others in the founding of our country, there were eight Fosters who served in the Colonial Militia. To name a few, Deacon Edmund Rice, Reginald Foster of Ipswich, Roger Sherman of Connecticut and Senator George Frisbee Hoar of Massachusetts. This connection continued into contemporary times with Charles Foster who was instrumental in establishing the Cape Cod National Seashore.
You have an absolutely FANTASTIC channel sir! I love history depicted in this manner, and you do a great job with your narration…have a wonderful Holiday
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Love your videos about Lexington and Concord. I was an Appleseed Project instructor and this is the history we cover during our marksmanship clinics. Very well done!
What marksmanship? Nobody here had a rifle in 1775. Muskets were collective weapons that functioned best when operated in volley fire. The colonists were firing at extreme range, just trying to hit anybody or anything among the packed masses of grenadiers on the road. The light infantry weren't supermen, but they kept the colonists generally about two hundred or more yards away from the flanks, even on the rear, the most difficult place to defend. Estimated consumption of ammunition that day by the colonists we at least thirty thousand rounds fired. The colonists killed 73 British soldiers, wounding many more, but the use of thirty thousand rounds certainly wasn't marksmanship. It was, rather, determination to not let the British get back to Boston without severe casualties.
While there may have been no rifles used on April 19th, 1775, there is thought that one man of some renowned might have been using one. Hezekiah Wyman of Woburn is said to have had a rifle, but I do not know if the record is clear. I have also seen contrary accounts about how he fought that day. Some information says that he rode his white mare to points ahead of the British column as it returned from Concord, would stop, dismount, and fire very accurately from distance. When he fired, he created casualties, reportedly. British soldiers referred to him as "Death".
As far as marksmanship, four of the eight officers present for the engagement at The Old North Bridge were shot. Americans were not shooting at a mass of red coats and hoping to hit one. They apparently aimed at specific bright red coats.
I can’t get enough of this series!! Absolutely awesome!! Thank you JD!
Glad you enjoy it!
Being a vet and a student of military history, I know that most armies require "after action reports" or some such document similarly named after encounters. I would bet somewhere in the annals of the British Military Archives, there could be a DETAILED after action report of the day's events. Wouldn't that be great reading. As always, superb stuff JD/
Definitely.
Being OIC of the Detachment I'd be looking to start with Lieutenant-Colonel Francis Smith, and the10th Regiment of Foot.
He'd be the one responsible for filing the immediate AAR (JD do we know how badly he was injured in the rout from Bloody Bluff?).
Then it'll be a case of following the Chain of Command up to the most senior British representative, in the Colonies.
I'd suggest starting with our National Archives, section "WO1/WO2": War Office and predecessors: Secretary-at-War, Secretary of State for War, and Commander-in-Chief, In-letters and Miscellaneous Papers
These consist of original despatches, letters and papers sent to the Secretary-at-War, 1755 to 1795, and to the Secretary of State for War, 1794 to 1865.
British military archives are excellent. In some cases the personal papers are also available online. I found those of major montressor, the senior participated in the French and Indian wars, his son in the American war of independence. I believe the jr.s portrait hangs in the Detroit museum abd his wife’s is in the White House (I think) both painted by John Copley.
Fascinating detail. Some of the current American cities involved were laid out by these British engineers
@@GlasgowCeltic88 British Archives or early Journals/Diaries written in Colonial Mass. Much "First-hand Accounts" are retrieved by historians. Start at the War Office. Thanks.
you are correct, I believe the park service has some copies of the reports on hand. It is indeed a great read on both sides
Thank you for showing the actual locations of these events.
Thanks for including this often neglected part of the Battle of Lexington and Concord. This may be the most important part of the battle, because it gave hope of success to the rebels. Without this, the battle could have been an isolated incident. But it inspired rebels in other colonies to resist the Brits.
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Great video makes me proud of our founding fathers not just the famous ones but all that fought for freedom 🇺🇸
Lots of brave men that turned out.
Sir, your video account put me right in on the happenings of that day. Truly gripping God save "unruly colonists"! Both sides of the fallen are marked - truly remarkable and edifying for posterity.
Fall is definitely the best time of the year. Great observation!
With so much focus on Lexington and Concord, the Battle Road is a hidden gem that many miss. What is more striking is the fact that in highly congested greater Boston it still exists and resisted getting paved out of existence over the years prior to the formation of the park. These videos are great for those that cannot see this in person or have perhaps read the David Hackett Fischer book about Revere's ride and the first day of the war and want to see the exact spots--relatively the same as they were (except for the growth). Great job.
Thank you for more details on American History.
It was such a personal battle at that early stage. The houses bare the scars and tell the stories as much as the citizens.
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Thank God for our farmers with muskets.
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What a great watch from the best "History Teacher." JD Did you make it by the "Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library?" It's on the corner of Massachusetts Ave and Marrett Rd. Thanks for your time, work and ALL your walking.
Sure didn’t. And thanks for the kind words!
Thank you, JD, for the American Revolution series. I have been waiting for something like this. You are covering it so well and showing things I never knew. Great content!
I hope you and your family have a Blessed Christmas!
Thanks! You too!
In 2019 I got to tour the Jason Russell house where the bloodiest fighting took place on April 19, 1775. Bullet holes can still be seen in the house. I love all these colonial homes that are still standing. The ones you showed are amazing.
Interesting.
I was waiting for him to do this of the Revolution. Me being from N.J. growing up in Elizabeth N.J. has alot of Revolution Nostalgia/ Artificats.
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I took my 8-yr-old son to see the North Bridge on New Year’s Eve this year, when we crossed the bridge and he saw the Old Manse house, he wanted to check it out and actually wanted to take a tour. We had an awesome day, and as we left Concord we stopped at the Civil War memorial in the town center for a picture. I think I’ve lit a fire in his brain, which I’m very excited about!
Very 😎 COOL ...
I think that it shows so much respect that there are Union Flags on the grave markers for the British soldiers that died. Long live the red white and blue of our great countries
Another good terrain walk. Thank you much.
Glad you enjoyed it
@@TheHistoryUnderground it has been a very good mini-series.
This video looks like an invitation for a nice long walk or a bike ride! Those markers were calling me! I've biked 20 miles round trip on my city's bike trail. And I loved your shout out for the missing glove. I couldn't believe the number of missing gloves I saw at a theme park this past weekend.
Ha!
Totally agree - I grew up in Boston and should have done this many, many years ago. The documentary is a great way to do just that.
Great camera work, as always. Here's another thought that came to mind for me. Since the British Regulars first met the colonial militia at Lexington around 5am, they'd been on the move since... 1am? 2am? And by the time they got to Concord around 1pm, they'd covered maybe 18-20 miles? And then they turned around and got harassed for the rest of the afternoon... for another 10 miles at least (back to Lexington) or more, back all the way to Boston. That's a really REALLY long day (they got their steps in). Keep up the good work, JD! You have a gift for telling these important stories.
Yeah, and no chow? And what about ammo?
Yeah, that's what I was thinking. Bad day for those guys.
@@boondocker7964 All of these were lacking. Captain Smith had expected a quick march out and back to confiscate some arms. And it's not as thought they could stop and refill canteens on the way back, either.
Definitely agree with you about fall being better than summer JD! Also the red maple trees are so beautiful.
Very merry Christmas for you and your whole family!!!!!!
Lived near this area my entire life, visited the bridge and Lexington several times, but never knew about the battle road and the chasing of the British back to Boston. You've inspired me to visit again and look for that trail myself. Well done, and thanks!
Glad you enjoyed it!
You literally live my dream life, traveling the world seeing the best sites of history! Maybe one day I’ll figure out how to make it work but until then thank you for your content and efforts, been following you for over two years now and love seeing how you’ve grown, watch every single episode!
Glad to share the experiences. Thanks!
I love this! My favorite era of our history. Amazing to walk in such historical steps. Thank you
As a young girl of 15 years, I decided to take Latin in school, (I am not a Catholic) it proved to be a great decision, as I still have my Companion to Caesar 55 years later. That alone inspired a passion for military strategies. General Patton was also inspired by Julius Caesar.
You have the greatest job ever getting to travel and visit all these historic places its simply amazing.
He made this his job...that is the best part. He is his own boss
Appreciate that!
Well......not 100%. I still have a full time job that I clock in to.
@@TheHistoryUnderground I’m guessing your students get the benefit of some of your “moonlighting.” Some might even appreciate it. I’m not disparaging today’s youth it’s just that adolescence is a challenging stage. One of my best high school teachers brought American history alive for me. James Fleet at Kennedy High School, Denver Co, circa 1968. You will likely be similarly remembered by many of your students.
@@TheHistoryUnderground Really?! Wowzer!
I know you had to rush it but just want to point out Bloody angle, Hartwell Tavern, Paul Revere Capture site are all in the town of Lincoln. The Lincoln minutemen played a role that day. If you ever visit again the Lincoln Cemetery, Lincoln Library, Stone Church, Pierce House( now a town owned wedding venue, Flint farm and many other historic buildings would make a cool episode.
Thanks!
Great video you made the past come alive
Thanks!
I grew up a few miles from this place. I have spent countless days walking the route and reading everything I could find with details of that battle. Individual stories and fist hand accounts are numerous. Great video.
Bravo, JD!
A terrific series on the start of the American Revolution. Thank you for taking us along for the ride. Fascinating. Can’t imagine what those British soldiers were feeling along the Bloody Road back to Boston. Those British graves stand as lonley testaments to the violence of that day.
Thank you again.Keep up the solid work.
Bad day for them, for sure.
Great work, JD. A clear (and illuminating) telling of a very messy story. It’s very New England that while sites are preserved, life goes on, people still live in those houses, and those roads are still used as they were then, even if they are now paved! The swirl of humanity is a bit mind boggling, but that’s our history!
Thanks! Pretty wild story that doesn't get a whole lot of attention.
Having grown up there, I remember the beginning of Minuteman National Park. Congress authorized the Park Service to buy up selected residential and commercial property along the route where the plan was for open fields. Residents who sold were allowed to keep their houses as long as they lived in them, but then houses were demolished. I hope your viewers will appreciate that places like this don't just happen. They are the result of government action and the cooperation of many individuals.
Awesome! Thanks for sharing, and for all that you do.
Glad you enjoy it!
So yeah! Eating fruit, a coworker’s retirement cake and watching this again~such a great day!
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Excellent episode….I thought I knew a bit about the history…..ha! Well done! Thx, Andrew
Traveling is the system to participate in change that our Earth undergoes every day.
Getting educated, exploring, living different realities from environment usual helps to interpret the splendor of the planet.
Accounts like this represent a good chance to travel without having to leave your home.
Each of us should be able travel and visit your travel destinations.
Thank you for published information collected in your travels.
Thank you! I appreciate that.
Another outstanding episode JD. I do hope that you continue with the American Revolution series (I voted for it in your poll) there is so much history that is being forgotten about sadly.
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Very nice to see monuments of fallen enemies is great shape with fresh British flags...respectful....great job JD
Thanks! And yes, it's good to see the British flags over the graves.
It looks so peaceful there. It's hard to imagine there was a time where that same place was not so peaceful. I really like the respect shown the British soldiers who died a long way from home.
Agreed. Thanks!
I wonder how many high school history teachers are using your videos nowadays. These would've been great to have seen back when I was in high school.
I get some feedback from time to time.
I laughed way to hard that you added the missing glove in the video 🤣🤣
Just trying to be of service :)
It has been several years since I last visited the Lexington-Concord areas. After viewing this excellent video, I need to return again & walk the sites JD showed. Thanks.
Awesome place. Thanks!
Fantastic episode. I have loved the history of this day all my life. I went to a lot of these places on school field trips, and then when I got old enough to drive, would visit the battlefields from time to time. Walking Battle Road is an experience. Unlike other battlefields from that time, in many places, it would have looked very similar. You did a great job of showing the geography and placement of where the forces were in relation to each other. Nice job! Thank you for the episode!
Thanks! Had fun with this one.
I just watched your Lexington and Concord video, and when I was watching it I said to myself that you couldn’t be there without walking battle road. Glad I found this channel. You Sir, are doing great work here.
Thanks! I feel like that's apart of the narrative that usually gets left out. Glad that I could share it!
It’s amazing to stand before a British soldiers grave and to think that 5 or 6 feet beneath where you are standing is a soldier who gave his life defending the crown as it were. I really can’t comprehend how England thought they could win this. If we were only separated by a few hundred miles instead of thousands, it’s possible this may have turned out much differently. I’m glad it ended the way it did. Merry Christmas to all!
Yeah, pretty sobering to think about. Merry Christmas to you as well.
You have to remember Britain was a superpower. We didn't even have an army. But Britain had been in a war with France. That was where the taxes were going - to pay for that war.
@@terrykeever9422 👍 and Britain had the world's most powerful navy.
@@terrykeever9422 Thankfully for the Patriots Brits were occupied with France
I had the same feeling when I found the grave of a Texas Revolution Veteran casually located in my city cemetery.
Learning about history in school, it all seemed almost "make-believe," like a fable or legend we were supposed to learn. Seeing that grave not only reminded me how old my own community is, but also reminded me that the history was very, very real, forged by real people who lived and walked on the same ground we stand on today.
Thank you for another walk through history as my wife and I enjoy another cup of coffee in rural Oregon....time to feed the cows
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Thanks JD! It’s been over 30 years since I’ve been there. I’ll have to get back. I could see some similarities to Custer’s Last Stand. For the most part, how Custer went down into Little Bighorn valley to face all the angry Indians in the Dakotas. They were primed to fight the 7h Cav. Gage sent Lt. CoL. Francis Smith into the country side, only to find all the angry, Colonials In Massachusetts. The Colonials were no less angry against the British. They were fortunate they were only 12 miles from Boston. Anymore distance, they would have been known as the lost battalion.
It is wicked cool you were able to see Lexington, Concord and the Battle Road. Hope you're able to come back to New England to tell more of these stories. Great work, sir
Thanks! Can’t wait to come back.
Amazing History! Thank you 🙏🏼
Our pleasure!
Very well done, JD. You have "salted my oats" to visit this are again. There is a very well done 1988 made for TV movie called "April Morning" that I would recommend to you. It is available for free here on TH-cam.
Love Hartwell Tavern. Very cool.authentic tavern.
My favorite part about the battle is the fact that wounded British soldiers sought and received care in the homes of owners that were shooting at them.
I am so glad you picked fall to video these locations. New England in the fall is quite beautiful.
Beautiful.
Really enjoying this series man. When I was a young boy I saw the Patriot and have been baffled just like the British on how a bunch of farmers were able to rally together and make a country out of just few colonies. Keep up the great work man. Would love to see more paintings of the people we are talking about to put a face to the event.
Thanks! Unfortunately, images of these people and events are hard to come by. For example, there's no known image of John Parker.
Understood. Thank you for all your hard work
My many times grandfather , and his four brothers , were from Hesse Cassel Germany, they fought with the British army, but Half way through the war they changed sides and finished fighting for George Washington.
Great Topic. I'll bet this got George's attention back in London. Thanks as always JD.
Thanks! And yeah, I think this turned some heads.
Absolutely fascinating!! That ball hole in that house made it all come alive. To see these sites and what they represent is so cool !! All I could think is I hope you do many more on the revolution and before
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Well done, JD. As always. Excellent overview of the day's events.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thank you for the video. MERRY CHRISTMAS to you and your family and all the best for the New Year.
Merry Christmas to you too!
There was a militia casualty at Meriam's corner. My 6th Great Grandfather Moses Abbott was a 1st Lieutenant at the bridge. He took command of his men after his superior Captain Wilson was killed at Meriam's Corners. His men also chased the British back to Boston.
There was a guy by the name of Simon Kenton who crossed the pass with Daniel Boone when he blazed the trails into what was the west into the lands we now call Kentucky and Tennessee. Simon Kenton blazed further north into Ohio. Was captured and held hostage by some Native Americans for quite a few years. They tortured Simon during the time of his captivity and no matter what, they could not kill him. Nearly beating him to death, running a tortuous gauntlet of punishment and they could not kill him. They finally released Mr. Kenton after years of torture with a great admiration for this white man. Several memorials and statues have been erected in Simon Kenton’s honor in Kentucky and in Southeastern Ohio. I would love to see you do a presentation of this guy. And follow his path up into Ohio and his exploits.
Thank you sir, really enjoying this revolutionary war visit.
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Outstanding. Loving this series JD
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Such a great series!
Thanks for sharing another great episode.
Interesting video. I’ve always wanted to walk the Battle Road. But it seems the fighting continued into Arlington and Cambridge, as I’ve seen markers where British soldiers are buried there also from April 19, 1775.
I want this job. im a US Army Veteran and a major history nerd. I love your videos especially the German WW2 videos. i have been fascinated with the Third Reich as long as i can remember
You did it again thank you 👏🏻 . You’re right we did go back to Boston with our tail between our legs , I imagine it was like a scene from the Wild West . I’m surprised to see memorials to the fallen British soldiers , I love the respect given thank you 🇬🇧🇺🇸
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Absolutely loved this video. Again, I've done this tour/route but I didn't know 3/4 of the material you covered.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Good job. Learn something from all your videos. Thanks for your work
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Outstanding video! Top notch mix of landmarks with story telling. Making history come alive!
After this series one on the Indian Wars would be super cool, or maybe the Cattlemen/Sheepherders/Water Wars. By far the best on the net
Thanks! Gonna be spending some time in southern Germany after this one.
Well done JD! The Battle Road runs right through my hometown of Woburn. You tend to forget how close the Revolutionary War was round here....
Thanks again for taking me along to a place that has always been on my bucket list but has always been outside my ability to travel to! Keep up the great videos!!
As an ex Australian soldier l find war and or conflicts just soo sad. Many men and women die because of politics. R.I.P those brave people on both sides.
As a asphalt plant operator I find war sad
Amen Brother 🕊
Excellent video. Con-Cord or Con-Kerd - it really doesn't matter - the history stands!!
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Great video. The fighting continued into Arlington where it got hot again at Arlington heights. This area is where the British soldiers began ransacking the houses and causing damage. The British set up a field hospital along the route in East Lexington as well to care for the wounded. They invaded one house in Arlington Center and were met by a lone farmer with a pistol who opened fire on them. He was bayonetted multiple times and left for dead. He survived and lived to be an old man.
Where the tour took place use to be tar roadways and houses. The National Park services has been buying the houses in the area, razing them and returning the land to the way it looked in 1775. They are also clearing the land as it is mostly wooded land now where back then it was all open fields. Great video.
Thanks! Wish that I would've had time to go more in depth. Hopefully, this people a general idea of what happened on that day though.
The early settlers wiped out the Old Growth Forests for Masts & Ships, Homes & Churches - Meeting Houses, Tools & Furniture and Cleared Farmland & Commons. Thanks.
@@TheHistoryUnderground This was a great video. I live here and I learned some new things. Great informative video! Perfect.
@@benjaminrush4443 Those brick walls in New England that line the fields are in many cases 250 to 300 years old. They would clear the fields of rocks for the plows and trees. It was an agricultural society (Agrarian Society). The colonists were all farmers.
@@007jjr Yes. Salts of the Earth.
JD, you help to make history come alive. Thanks
Appreciate that!
Hi JD. I’ve commented on another video you did on the Lex Green day. I hope you return to the area and visit Arlington. The Jason Russell House and Old Burying Ground (where he’s buried, among other troublemakers for the Brit. troops!) the Whittemore-Robbins House and Civil War Monument in the Center of town. Scribed on it is what I believe to be the Arlington residents who participated in combat during that war. I’m not perfectly clear on that so don’t hold me to it. Thanks again for your efforts. I really enjoy your channel.
Another winner JD - thanks. Aside from the fascinating history Lexington and Concord are two of the nicest towns you'll find anywhere.