Buttricks Hill

Across the landscape of time, Buttricks Hill stands as a silent witness. It whispers tales of a family deeply intertwined with Concord’s history, the Buttricks. Their roots reach back to the very founding of this town. Buttricks Hill is more than just a geographical landmark. It’s a stage where generations of Buttricks lived, loved, and played their part in shaping the nation’s destiny. One particular Buttrick, Major John, stands tall in the annals of American history. Born in 1731, he was a prominent figure in Concord. He was a farmer, a town official, and a respected member of the community. Buttricks Hill saw him grow from a boy into a man of consequence. John Buttrick’s life took a dramatic turn on April 19, 1775. At the North Bridge, a pivotal moment in the American Revolution unfolded. Buttrick, leading the colonial militia, gave the fateful command, “Fire! For God’s sake, fire!”. Those words, echoing across Buttricks Hill, marked the first shots fired by American soldiers against British troops. Buttricks Hill, though not the site of the battle itself, held a unique significance for the Buttrick family. The battle, they felt, was fought on their land, their legacy intertwined with the struggle for independence. Years later, the land was deeded to the town, becoming a memorial to the courage displayed that day. Buttricks Hill continued to watch over the family as they navigated the changing landscape of Concord. Stedman Buttrick, John’s descendant, built a grand house on Liberty Street in 1912. The hill, now part of the family’s sprawling estate, witnessed their joys and sorrows, their gatherings and celebrations. The gardens, meticulously cultivated by Stedman’s son, became a local attraction. Buttricks Hill, once a backdrop to revolution, now witnessed the quieter triumphs of family life. The Buttricks, ever mindful of their history, continued to add to the Estabrook Woods, piece by piece. They preserved the land from development. They recognized its inherent value, a legacy for future generations. In the 1960s, the family homestead, including Buttricks Hill, was sold to the National Park Service. It stands today as a testament to a family’s enduring connection to their land and their nation’s history. Buttricks Hill still stands sentinel. It silently observes the passage of time, a tangible link to the past. It invites you to reflect on the courage and resilience of those who shaped the destiny of a nation.