Happy Birthday -almost- to the USA! **1776-2026=250** The semiquincentennial approaches. That is a mouthful so let’s just call it the 250th. Its a 2-year long celebration because all the pre-war skirmishes, like the Boston Tea Party and the Battles of Lexington and Bunker Hill, happened before independence was declared. Minutemen were at the ready since 1774. (One of my ancestors, Minuteman Capt. James Patch of Ipswich, MA, fought at Bunker Hill.)
On a cold day in November, 200 people gathered to witness the unveiling of two DAR “America 250!” commemorative signs in Exeter, NH. This was the NH state-wide kick off of the Daughters of the American Revolution celebrations of the 250th anniversary of the founding of America. One standard 250th sign was placed at the American Independence Museum on Water Street. Here’s a picture with some of the DAR women who made the day possible. Many of them are the leaders in their respective chapters from all around the state. The woman in the red blazer is the state DAR leader (regent) who spearheaded the entire project. Huzzah to her!!
The other sign was placed at the Winter Street Cemetery. This was a custom sign that honored the service and sacrifice of ALL the Black soldiers and sailors from NH. That number is estimated by scholars to be near to 400.
Two Black soldiers, and probably more, are buried there. A gorgeous wreath was laid at the stone for Pvt. Jude Hall by two DAR women in his direct family line who had traveled from afar. It just made my heart sing!
There are 30 Revolutionary War soldiers buried in that olde yard. Here is a map in case you want to visit sometime. And here is the program from that historic day.
Stay tuned for more 250th action in Exeter in the coming years!
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