Local History: Shots Not Heard Round the World

In December of 1774, a heroic insurrection against the authority and property of King George III punishable by hanging occurred at New Castle, New Hampshire’s Fort William and Mary (later renamed Fort Constitution). The event inexplicably escaped the radar of history and should be rediscovered for its critically important influence on America’s movement for independence.

Many historians agree that the Battles of Lexington and Concord in April of 1775 signaled the beginning of the end of British rule in America. Other candidates for the honor, such as the Boston Massacre and Tea Party, were considered, but Lexington and Concord stood apart from the rest mostly because of deadly gunfire—the first of which was immortalized by an Emerson poem as the “shot heard round the world” (Concord Hymn, Ralph Waldo Emerson).

Another possible candidate was mysteriously ignored for reasons unknown but should have stood at least shoulder-high with the rest because it had convinced King George four months earlier that he had a serious rebellion on his hands. That would be the above-mentioned insurrection in New Castle incited by Paul Revere.

Join us to hear the story of the obscure Fort William and Mary Raid that deserves a place in the history books!

Registration is not required. 

About the Presenter
Mr. Geanoulis was born in Peabody, Massachusetts on May 15, 1936. He holds an associate degree with honors in Electronics Technology from Devry Technical Institute and a Business Degree from New Hampshire College. As a born-again amateur historian, he authored the book and poem, Shots Not Heard Round the World. He lives in New Castle with his wife, Norma.