Bunker Hill Day: Massachusetts
Celebrating the Battle of Bunker Hill
by Liz Olson
Bunker Hill Day, a holiday observed annually on June 17
in Massachusetts, celebrates the Battle of Bunker Hill. Although named
for Bunker Hill, the actual fighting took place on the next hill over called
Breed’s Hill in Charlestown, Mass., on June 17, 1775.
One of the
earliest major battles of the Revolutionary War, the Battle of Bunker Hill
was an important event in the quest for American independence. Even though
the British defeated colonial troops, the gallant American defense
heightened colonial morale and resistance.
The Bunker Hill Monument
was built to commemorate the heroic battle. Construction of the 221-foot
granite obelisk took place between 1827 and 1843. The Bunker Hill Monument
stands at the top of Breed’s Hill in Charlestown, Mass., and is one
of the most visible landmarks
in Boston.
Schools, libraries, and government offices in Suffolk
County are closed to honor the event. Celebrations include a parade and
battle reenactment in Charlestown every third weekend in June.
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