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Description
When we think of March 17, most people immediately associate it with St. Patrick’s Day, the famous Irish holiday celebrated with parades, green beer, and a lot of merriment. However, for many in Boston and across New England, March 17 also marks another significant day: Evacuation Day. If you’re unfamiliar with this unique historical event, don’t worry! Let’s dive into the fascinating history, why people love this day, how to celebrate it, and some fun facts that might surprise you.
History
Evacuation Day – March 17 commemorates the day in 1776 when British forces evacuated Boston after a prolonged occupation during the American Revolution. It marks a critical moment in American history, when the city of Boston was freed from British control, signaling a major turning point in the fight for independence.
The story behind Evacuation Day is deeply connected to the siege of Boston, which began in April 1775 after the Battles of Lexington and Concord. Tensions between the American colonists and the British had been escalating for some time, and by the spring of 1775, the American colonies were in open revolt. The British forces, under General Thomas Gage, sought to maintain control of the city and the surrounding area. However, the American Continental Army, led by George Washington, laid siege to Boston, preventing British reinforcements from entering and supplies from getting through.
The Siege of Boston lasted for nearly a year, but it wasn’t until early 1776, when the Americans strategically placed cannons on Dorchester Heights (a series of hills in the southern part of the city), that the British were forced to reconsider their position. With the threat of being bombarded by the Continental Army’s artillery, British Commander-in-Chief Sir William Howe decided it was time to evacuate.
On March 17, 1776, after months of negotiations and military standoff, the British troops and loyalists boarded ships and sailed away from Boston, leaving the city to its American defenders. The victory was a huge morale boost for the Continental Army, and the day marked a major step toward eventual independence for the United States.
How To Celebrate
1. Attend the Evacuation Day Parade
In Boston, Evacuation Day is often marked by a celebratory parade. Although the event is smaller than the city's famous St. Patrick’s Day parade, it’s a fantastic way to take part in the day’s festivities. The parade typically features local marching bands, veterans, and historical reenactments, providing an opportunity to learn more about Boston's revolutionary past. The parade is often held in Charlestown, the neighborhood closest to Bunker Hill, where the American Revolution’s first major battle occurred.
2. Visit Historic Sites
If you’re a history lover, Evacuation Day is the perfect occasion to visit some of Boston’s historical landmarks. A trip to Boston’s Freedom Trail is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the history of the American Revolution. Key sites like Bunker Hill Monument, Old North Church, and Boston Common offer educational experiences that tie directly into the events surrounding the evacuation of British forces from the city. Walking these sites can make the events of March 17, 1776, feel even more real.
3. Learn About the History
Evacuation Day is a great day to dive into some local history books or watch documentaries that explain the events leading up to and following the evacuation of British troops. Understanding the broader context of the American Revolution can help you appreciate the importance of Evacuation Day even more.
4. Celebrate with Food and Drink
While St. Patrick’s Day is known for Irish fare and drinks, you can add a historical twist to your Evacuation Day celebration by sampling foods that were popular in 18th-century Boston. Think about hearty colonial dishes like cornbread, stew, or roast meats. Enjoying a meal with friends or family that reflects the time period can be a fun and tasty way to get into the spirit of the day.
5. Host a Revolutionary-Themed Party
Why not host a party with a revolutionary twist? You could encourage guests to dress up as revolutionary war-era characters, host trivia contests on early American history, or even stage a reenactment of the events surrounding the British evacuation of Boston. Of course, you can also enjoy plenty of period-appropriate food and drink to set the mood.
Amazing Facts
1. The British Didn't Leave Quietly
While the British evacuation of Boston on March 17, 1776, is often remembered as a peaceful departure, it wasn’t entirely without incident. The British and loyalists who left the city had to be escorted by American forces, and some minor skirmishes occurred during the retreat. Still, the evacuation was largely a peaceful transition of power.
2. It Wasn't Just About Boston
Though Evacuation Day specifically commemorates the British withdrawal from Boston, it’s important to remember that it had ripple effects throughout the entire American Revolutionary War. The departure of the British troops from Boston freed up American resources and bolstered the morale of the Continental Army. The victory at Boston encouraged further colonial resistance to British rule.
3. Evacuation Day Was Once a Big Deal in Massachusetts
In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Evacuation Day was a much larger celebration, with parades, speeches, and even public holidays in Massachusetts. Over time, however, the observance of the day faded, especially as St. Patrick’s Day became the more dominant holiday on March 17.
4. Evacuation Day and St. Patrick's Day Are Tied Together
Though the two holidays are often overshadowed by each other, Evacuation Day and St. Patrick’s Day are connected in Boston. The Irish immigrants who settled in the city in the 19th century took pride in the revolutionary spirit of the early colonists. Over time, both holidays grew to be celebrated on the same day, adding a fun layer of cultural and historical significance to the festivities.
Why We Love
1. Historical Significance
For those who appreciate history, Evacuation Day represents a moment of triumph and resilience. The successful evacuation of the British forces was a major achievement for the colonists, proving that they could stand up to one of the most powerful empires in the world. It symbolizes the beginning of the end of British rule in America and the beginning of the American Revolution's next chapter.
2. Celebrating American Independence
Evacuation Day is also a reminder of the sacrifices made by the American colonists in their pursuit of freedom. While we often celebrate July 4th as Independence Day, Evacuation Day serves as an earlier milestone in the fight for liberty. It's a time to reflect on the courage and determination that led to the creation of the United States of America.
3. A Day for the People of Boston
For Bostonians, Evacuation Day is a day of pride and local celebration. It’s part of the city’s rich heritage, and the day connects modern residents with the history of their ancestors. It’s also a day when people from all walks of life come together to celebrate their shared history.
4. The Uniqueness of the Day
Unlike other holidays, Evacuation Day is not a nationwide event. It is specific to Boston, and this exclusivity adds a certain charm to the day. It’s not something that everyone across the country celebrates, but that makes it even more special for those who do.
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