Bunker Hill Monument

The Bunker Hill Monument stands tall in the Charlestown neighborhood of Boston, a silent sentinel of America's past. This 221-foot granite obelisk is a must-see for history buffs and those curious about the American Revolution. Erected to honor the Battle of Bunker Hill on June 17, 1775, the monument offers a peek into the early struggles that shaped the nation.

 

What to Know

The Bunker Hill Monument is not just a towering structure; it’s a gateway into the history of the struggle of the Americans for independence. The monument was erected in memory of the battle fought on June 17, 1775, when Americans led by Colonel William Prescott held their own against a much superior British force. Prescott is reported to have told his troops that they should not shoot until they could see the whites of the enemy’s eyes, a saying that has become well-known. 

 

The site is under the National Park Service and there is a museum on the opposite side of the street, the Bunker Hill Museum where more information on the battle and the early American Revolution can be obtained. The museum includes displays about the leaders of that period such as Joseph Warren who was among the fatalities in the war and Marquis de Lafayette who toured the site in the 50th year of the battle. 

 

How to Get There 

It is fairly easy to visit the Bunker Hill Monument. If you are in Boston, it is easily accessible by walking from Charles River or by a bus or subway ride. The site is easily reachable by bus or the MBTA, Boston’s subway; therefore, it does not matter whether you are coming from Boston Common or any other part of the city. 

 

 

Highlights

 

A Living History Book:

Enter the monument and be overwhelmed by the history. Just think of the courageous colonists such as Joseph Warren who sailed through Boston Harbor while engaged in the battle of Bunker Hill on June 17, 1775, in a fight for American freedom. 

 

Architectural Marvel:

Learn about the monument’s towering three masts and the beautiful details of the rigging. Look down to the lower level and see the officers’ cabins (or better, the lack of them) and envision the great guns that once fired their mighty shots. 

 

Bunker Hill Museum:

The Bunker Hill Museum, located across the street, enhances your monument visit with an array of hands-on activities that allow you to ‘fight’ the battle. Discover the construction of the monument in the 1800s, the 50th anniversary of the battle, and the stories of the people involved.

 

Features 

The Bunker Hill Monument has a lot of historical content. The fight became one of the first significant confrontations between the British troops and the American colonies during the Revolutionary War. This battle also claimed the life of Joseph Warren, who was one of the most influential persons of the Revolution. 

 

The construction of the monument was started in 1827 and completed in 1843 with the dedication of the monument done by the visit of the special guest Marquis de Lafayette. It was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1961, thus giving it a more secure place in the history of the United States. 

 

Best Time to Visit 

This brings us to the last factor that you should consider when planning on when to visit the place; the weather. The weather in Boston is changeable, but it is better to climb the monument and enjoy the panorama in the period from late spring to early autumn. The site may be crowded during the summer months, especially during the anniversary of the battle on the 17th of June, which is usually marked by certain ceremonies.