Burlington County is setting the stage for a significant commemoration this month as it begins the celebrations for America’s 250th anniversary. While the official anniversary will occur next year, the County has scheduled a special event to reflect on the American Revolution.
The opening event is slated for April 16th, drawing inspiration from Paul Revere’s midnight ride and the initial encounters of the Revolutionary War at Lexington and Concord, Massachusetts. Commissioner Deputy Director Allison Eckel, who chairs the County’s 250th Anniversary Planning Committee, emphasized the local historical contributions. “The Revolution may not have started in Burlington County, but our county and its people ended up playing a pivotal role in the war and the birth of our nation,” Eckel stated. She added, “Our lantern parade is the perfect way to begin our celebration of America by honoring the Revolution’s start.”
To understand the historical context, it is noted that the Revolutionary War began over a year before the Declaration of Independence was signed. The initial confrontations, termed as the “shots heard round the world,” occurred on April 19, 1775, when British forces engaged Colonial militia at Lexington and Concord, Massachusetts, following Paul Revere’s famous alert ride.
In observance of the 250th anniversary of the conflict’s commencement, the Burlington County Parks System has organized two history sessions called “Six Events That Outraged Colonialists and Fueled a Revolution.” These sessions will highlight key occurrences that led to the first battles and are scheduled for 10 AM and 6 PM at the Burlington County Lyceum of History and Natural Sciences, located at 307 High Street, Mount Holly.
After the 6 PM session, attendees will engage in a lantern walk starting from the Lyceum and proceeding down High Street to the Historic Olde Courthouse. This walk symbolizes Revere’s ride and the signal lantern from the Old North Church in Boston. Participants are encouraged to join with lanterns, glowsticks or flashlights, marching along with Revolutionary War re-enactors.
“Burlington County’s rich and diverse history is one of our most important assets,” Eckel remarked, resuming the emphasis on the 250th Anniversary as a moment to spotlight significant local and national history.
