Before Lexington and Concord, there was “Leslie’s Retreat” – a confrontation between Salem residents and British soldiers in February 1775. Essex Heritage and its partners are inviting the public and media members to learn about this historic event, which is part of ongoing efforts to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution.
On February 26, 1775, British Colonel Alexander Leslie brought troops to Salem, MA to confiscate reported cannons. What he found was a community on edge. Militia members and local citizens blocked access over the North River Bridge preventing the soldiers from completing their search. Though a peaceful agreement was reached, the standoff highlights the growing tensions that led to the American Revolution.
Leslie’s Retreat: Salem on the Brink of Revolution, an upcoming exhibit at the Salem Armory Regional Visitor Center (2 New Liberty Street, Salem), will explore the significance of “Leslie’s Retreat” in American history and the changing legacy of the event over time. This exhibit is a joint effort between the Essex National Heritage Area, Salem Maritime National Historic Site, and Minute Man National Historical Park. The free exhibit will be on display from February 21 to April 27, Wednesday to Sunday, 10 am to 4 pm.
An opening reception and lecture for the exhibit will be held Friday, February 21 at 5 pm at the Salem Armory Regional Visitor Center. Salem Maritime National Historic Site curator Dr. Emily Murphy will present the free lecture at 6:30 pm. The reception is presented by Essex National Heritage Area, Salem Maritime National Historic Site, and Eastern National.
This exhibit is also part of a city-wide effort to commemorate the 250th anniversary of Leslie’s Retreat. More information about community events can be found at https://www.salem400.org/leslies-retreat/ and https://essexheritage.org/rev250/
