Ringing in the Revolution 250th Anniversary Celebrations

The Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park and The Town of North Smithfield, together with area religious institutions and numerous local community organizations, will conduct a series of events beginning on April 18 to celebrate the start of the American Revolution 250 years ago. On April 19, 1775, the “shot heard around the world” at the battles of Lexington and Concord launched the American Revolution. Colonists spread the word about the war through riders, bells, and lanterns. 

To commemorate this important event, all are invited to join the Two Lights campaign across the Blackstone Valley. Two Lights for Tomorrow is a nationwide initiative to commence the celebration of the 250th birthday of the United States of America. The famous ride of Paul Revere occurred overnight on April 18 – 19, 1775. Two Lights for Tomorrow uses the imagery of that shining light as a uniting call to action today for our fellow citizens. Everyone can participate in Two Lights. Simply display two lights in your home or business on April 18, 2025. 

The commemoration continues Monday, April 21, 2025. Partners in the Blackstone Valley will ring bells for two and a half minutes on Monday, April 21, 2025, at 1 PM at many churches and local institutions. Additional special programs will be taking place on the Uxbridge Common in MA at 1 PM (bell pealing followed by a call to arms and speaking program). 

The Slatersville program will take place at 5:30 PM at the Congregational Church and last one hour. This public event will feature a short history of local participation in the American Revolution, musical performances, and a recess to the common with a Revolutionary War Veteran roll call, and musket salute. Small lanterns will light the common. All are welcome and encouraged to attend these free events.

See the NSHA Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/northsmithfieldheritage