Wright's Tavern facts for kids
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Wright's Tavern
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U.S. Historic district
Contributing property |
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Wright's Tavern
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 Location in Massachusetts
Location in the United States
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| Location | Concord, Massachusetts |
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| Built | 1747 |
| Part of | Concord Monument Square-Lexington Road Historic District (ID77000172) |
| NRHP reference No. | 66000793 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | October 15, 1966 |
| Designated NHL | January 20, 1961 |
| Designated CP | September 13, 1977 |
Wright's Tavern is a very old building in Concord, Massachusetts. It was once a busy tavern, which is like an old-fashioned inn or pub where people could eat, drink, and stay. Today, it is a special place called a National Historic Landmark. This means it's an important building recognized for its history. Wright's Tavern played a big role at the start of the American Revolution, especially during the Battles of Lexington and Concord.
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A Historic Meeting Place
Wright's Tavern was built way back in 1747. A man named Ephraim Jones first owned and ran it. Later, around 1775, Amos Wright took over. The tavern is still named after him today!
The Start of the American Revolution
On April 19, 1775, something very important happened here. This was the day of the Battles of Lexington and Concord, which kicked off the American Revolution. When the town's courthouse bell rang, it was a warning. It meant that British soldiers, led by Major John Pitcairn, were coming.
Minutemen Gather at the Tavern
The brave Minutemen from Concord quickly gathered at Wright's Tavern. Minutemen were special colonial soldiers who were ready to fight at a moment's notice. Later that day, after the British arrived in Concord, even some British officers stopped at the tavern to rest.
A Place for Important Decisions
Wright's Tavern was also important before the battles began. In October 1774, the Massachusetts Provincial Congress met right next door. This was a group of leaders from Massachusetts towns. They were trying to decide how to deal with King George III and the British government.
Leaders Plan for Freedom
During their meetings, important leaders like John Hancock and Benjamin Lincoln were present. They made big decisions, like stopping tax payments to the British King. They also started organizing a militia, which was a group of citizen soldiers. This militia was ready to stand up to King George III if needed. Wright's Tavern was used as a meeting spot for different groups from the Congress during their five-day session.
The Tavern Today
After the American Revolution, Wright's Tavern was used for many different things. Even though it's very old, the building is still in great shape. It has red wooden siding and a unique double-hipped roof. Today, it serves as an educational space for the Concord Museum. It also houses the offices for two architecture companies.
