Lexington and Concord

Today, October 14, we went to Lexington and Concord. We have been so blessed that the warm weather has held. The town of Lexington was especially beautiful.

Lexington Green where the first skirmish of the revolution was held.
Buckman Tavern where the 70 Lexington militia men gathered to await the Brittish Regulars.

We had a terrific guide at this tavern. He included all the boys, even Tanner, in his presentation.

Monroe Tavern, also in Lexington, was used by the British as a temporary field hospital and headquarters during the retreat.

We also really enjoyed this guide. George Washington ate at this inn.

Orchard House, home of Louisa May Alcott, was such an interesting house to see. The Alcotts were such an unusual family. By this point in the day, the boys were starting to hint that they did not share their mother's love of historical buildings. To top it off, Jody was definitely the only one looking forward to a site made famous by the author of Little Women, but everyone humored her.

Concord School of Philosophy founded by Bronson Alcott.

The autumn colors continue to amaze us. Each tree is different, and we just marvel.

Hartwell Tavern at Minute Man National Park was our last stop. The boys now felt themselves to be tavern experts. However, this last stop had a neat musket demonstration.

Of course, we couldn't go to Concord without visiting Walden Pond (especially after General Conference). The light was just fading as we approached the pond. In this picture Spencer contemplates "simplicity."

This is a replica of Thoreau's cabin.

At the end of the day we brought home some very tired children (and parents). We felt so pampered to have a wonderful dinner waiting for us. We are so grateful to Jennie and Adam for letting us stay here. We have one last REALLY big day tomorrow. We're all tired, but we want to make the most of this warmer weather.