walking tour retraces historic route to Dorchester Heights

The Dorchester Historical Society is having a free walking tour to re-trace the steps of the patriotic troops who fortified Dorchester Heights in March of 1776. Start at Edward Everett Square at 2 p.m. and walk to the Dorchester Heights monument in Thomas Park in South Boston, following the trail of the troops and the Knox cannons sent to defend the Heights. Brigadier General Thomas’ orders were to prepare for the “defence [sic] of the ground & annoyance of the enemy.” The erection of defense works on the night of March 4, 1776, led to the evacuation of Boston by the British on the 17th and the end of the Siege of Boston.

At the Dorchester Heights monument, Bob Allison, Chair of the History Department at Suffolk University, will speak about the significance of the event at the beginning of the Revolutionary War. Dress warmly, and be aware that the South Boston parade will occur the same day, so you will not be able to drive the same route. It is a 1.2 mile walk, with a steep climb up stairs to the Heights.

On Sunday, March 20, 2011 at 2 p.m. sharp. Meet at the Clap’s Favorite Pear sculpture in Edward Everett Square, at the intersection of Columbia Road, Massachusetts Avenue and Boston Street.

Unless it is pouring cats & dogs, this walk will take place.