Historic Concord; An Introduction

"Historic Concord" is an introduction to the major figures and events that draw visitors to this New England town. The American Revolution began here in 1775, when colonial militia clashed with British soldiers. In the 19th century, due to the magnetism of Ralph Waldo Emerson, Concord became identified with the Transcendentalist movement, attracted writers such as Nathanael Hawthorne, and the Alcotts, and launched the careers of artists such as the sculptor Daniel Chester French. Concord native Henry Thoreau, with some inspiration from Emerson and his own supply of will and original thought, came to the forefront as an icon of the town.This book, 24 pages in length, printed in full color, has 42 illustrations including contemporary and antique photographs, paintings, and engravings.

America's struggle for independence began with an exchange of musketry witnessed by Concord's minister, who had encouraged his parishioners to rise against the British. A century later, sculptor Daniel Chester French's "Minuteman" was unveiled, its pedestal inscribed with words by the minister's grandson, Ralph Waldo Emerson.

By the rude bridge that arched the flood,

Their flag to April's breeze unfurled,

Here once the embattled farmers stood

And fired the shot heard round the world.

The skirmish at the bridge, the philosophic writer, and the famous sculptor stand as emblems of Concord's role in American history, literature, and the arts. Concord's significance extends well beyond its icons, as has been documented by many scholars. This small volume is intended as an introduction to this storied New England town and its most prominent sources of interest.