People

Concord minuteman who fought at North Bridge and later wrote a detailed memoir of the day. His account is among the most valuable eyewitness sources.

Senior militia officer in Concord whose farm was the primary target of the British expedition. His family hid supplies overnight while he commanded militia at Punkatasset Hill.

Young Concord physician who joined Revere and Dawes on the road and was the only rider to actually reach Concord with the alarm. His local knowledge allowed him to escape a British patrol that captured Revere.

Concord militia officer who commanded the advance on North Bridge and reportedly gave the order to fire. His leadership at the bridge turned defense into attack.

Pastor of Concord whose parsonage, the Old Manse, overlooked North Bridge. He witnessed the battle from his window and served as chaplain to provincial forces.

Elderly Concord widow who reportedly confronted British soldiers burning supplies in her town, helping save the courthouse and meetinghouse from flames.

Commander of the British expedition to Concord. His slow, cautious approach gave the colonists time to prepare—and his retreat became a disaster.

Captain of the Acton minutemen, killed at North Bridge. His company, armed with bayonets, led the advance—and Davis became the first American officer to fall in the Revolution.