Patriots' Day

Written and Photographed by Nancy Clover

We celebrated Patriots' Day on Monday, commemorating the start of the American Revolution on April 19, 1775 — the day of the famous "shot heard 'round the world" at the Battles of Lexington and Concord.

At the time of the Revolution, Melrose hadn’t yet become its own town. The area we now know as Melrose was then part of Malden, one of Massachusetts' older colonial settlements. Melrose would not incorporate as a separate town until 1850.

Despite not existing officially, the area played a meaningful role in the Revolutionary War effort. Local men — farmers, tradesmen, and laborers - joined militias that responded to the call on April 19, 1775. These citizen-soldiers fought to defend their homes, families, and the ideals of freedom.

A piece of that history is commemorated right here in Gooch Park, at the corner of West Foster and Vinton Streets. A stone with a plaque marks the site where eighteen minutemen gathered beneath a tree on the eve of battle—ready to fight in what would become the first battle for American independence.

If you're in the mood to soak up some Revolutionary War ambiance, look no further than Rising Eagle on Main Street. Rich in history, with excellent food, drinks, and a welcoming staff, it’s the perfect place to raise a pint in honor of those who fought for freedom.

Fun fact: Gooch Park is named after Congressman Daniel Gooch, who represented Melrose in the mid-1800s. He also served as the first president of the Melrose Improvement Society.