Bunker Hill National Park

 A short trip to Boston recently included a visit to Bunker Hill National Park. Most of the battlefield is covered by the buildings of Charlestown, which arose after being burnt down during the battle, spreading over the area. But Breed’s Hill (where the battle was actually fought) is steep enough to gain some insight into the battle. It would take a sturdy fellow indeed to run up that hill. Add a heavy pack, include numerous fences and you have slow going.

 

I hadn’t realized that the regulars wore their packs during the first two assaults up the hill. Howe had them shed the packs before the third attack. Less burdened and facing opponents low on ammunition, they stormed the redoubt, clearing it with bayonets. The militia fought with clubbed muskets,  few having bayonets. My wife’s ancestor fought in Stark’s New Hampshire Regiment by the banks of the Mystic River.

 

The museum there has a good account of the battle and an illuminated, narrated diorama with hundreds of model soldiers. Not sure if they were 6mm or slightly larger. I didn’t think to ask until I was miles away. 

Blue lights shine on American lines, red on British.

There are also displays in the museum showing how Charlestown was founded and how it grew into the modern era. Considering how built up the area is, it still increased my understanding of the fight. And it’s a moderate walk over to the USS Constitution. All told, worth the detour.