The Opening battles of the American Revolution took place in Lexington in Concord on April 19th, 1775. This is the 250th anniversary of this monumental event. Before any shots were fired, so many events led up to the actual conflict to start the revolution. Cities and towns across New England were gearing up for what was to come.

One act of defiance, (which dates back to Roman times), was to place a red cap on a pole. This simple act of Pole Capping was a provocative move.

One tradition in Bedford that started back in 1965 was reenacting this show of defiance with their annual Pole Capping event. Reenactors in colonial costumes for both the Colonists as well the Red Coats march from the Bedford Common to Willson Park march to defy the British and climb a pole to lodge their grievances.

Minuteman reenactors from throughout the region come to Bedford to participate in this event that is kicked off with a festive parade from the Town Common.

Pole Capping Day is considered the start of the Patriots Day celebration in the region. Along with the event there is the traditional Pancake breakfast and other activities. While you’re here, you can also visit the Bedford Historical Society’s exhibit on its opening day:

The Bedford Historical Society will also open their exhibit, “Bedford Answers the Call.”
Bedford Town responded to the urgent alarm spread through Eastern Massachusetts on the night of April 18, 1775. They were one of the five towns involved in the exchange of fire at the North Bridge. To commemorate the 250 th anniversary of that day, the Bedford Historical Society is mounting an exhibition entitled “Bedford Answers the Call.” It will open on Pole Capping Day, April 12, 2025, and remain until January, 2026, highlighting Bedford’s participation in the first moments of the American Revolution. Visit the Bedford Historical Society at 16 South Road, rear door. Call for hours at 781-275-7276.

The exhibition is free.