We invite you to attend the Patriot’s Day Candlelight Tribute at Westlawn Cemetery on April 19! It’s an incredible opportunity to honor the brave men from Westford who served during the American Revolution. This year, we’re offering a unique experience with a self-guided stroll through the cemetery, allowing you to access the service records of our Revolutionary War Patriots right from your phone or tablet. It’s a great way to connect with history in a personal way! You’ll also have the chance to engage with colonial interpreters who will be stationed throughout the illuminated grounds, ready to answer any questions you may have.
Guest parking will be available on the Country Roadside of Westlawn Cemetery for your convenience.
We honor the esteemed Colonel John Robinson (1735-1805), Westford’s highest-ranking officer from the Revolutionary War. His legacy is marked by the prominent slate marker that stands proudly in the cemetery. Robinson was not just a military leader; he served as a town selectman and was a courageous commander who led three Westford Minutemen companies to the North Bridge in Concord on that fateful morning of April 19, 1775. It was here that his men bravely confronted British regulars, firing what would become known as “the shot heard ’round the world.” Colonel Robinson also fought alongside many of these men at the Battle of Bunker Hill, showcasing his valor and commitment to our freedom.
The cemetery is steeped in history, located at the intersection of Concord and Country roads. Originally, this land belonged to Deacon Joshua Fletcher, one of Westford’s first taxpayers. After his daughter married Samuel Parker, the property eventually passed to Nathan Proctor, who generously donated what was then called West Burying Ground to the town. When Westford formally took over the cemetery’s care in 1761, many founding citizens found their final resting place there, making it a significant site of remembrance
Colonel Robinson is interred alongside 18 of his fellow Revolutionary War veterans. In 1902, the Sons of the American Revolution paid homage to their sacrifices by placing iron Maltese crosses on their graves.
Excitingly, in 2025, our nation will be celebrating the 250th anniversary of the start of the Revolutionary War! As part of this momentous occasion, the Westford Museum and Historical Society will explore our history during this pivotal era in American history. We encourage you to engage with us as we shine a light on Westford’s unique contributions and stories from the American Revolution.
