Rising dramatically before us, Prospect Hill stands as a silent sentinel. It has watched over centuries of change. Prospect Hill, once a peaceful dairy farm, became a crucial site in the American Revolution.
Before its fame, Prospect Hill was known as Strawberry Hill and Wildredge’s Hill. In the 17th century, it belonged to John Woolrych’s estate. This land, now Somerville, was part of Charlestown. It was often called “beyond the Neck.” Farming, cattle raising, quarrying, and brick making were common here.
That tranquility shattered on April 18, 1775. British soldiers marched past Prospect Hill to Concord. Their mission was to destroy colonial military stores. The “shot heard round the world” echoed as the British retreated. They faced constant fire from local farmers in Lexington.
Another skirmish erupted near Union Square. This was when the British passed Prospect Hill again. James Miller, a 65-year-old colonist, refused to retreat. He declared, “I am too old to run.” Miller fought bravely until his death.
The British finally reached Bunker Hill. Militia officers gathered at Prospect Hill’s base. They posted sentinels to monitor the British retreat into Boston. The siege of Boston had begun.
Within days, a Colonial army of 16,000 surrounded Boston. They built entrenchments from Roxbury to Chelsea. Earthworks arose near Union Square at Prospect Hill’s foot. By June, General Gage declared martial law. British forces expanded to 10,000. Gage planned to seize Dorchester Heights and Charlestown. He understood the importance of high ground.
The colonists learned of Gage’s plans. On June 17, militiamen fortified Breeds Hill. The British were shocked at dawn. The Battle of Bunker Hill commenced. The British fought to dislodge the colonists. The colonists resisted until they ran out of ammunition. They retreated across the Neck into Somerville.
Many colonists died during the retreat. The army regrouped at Prospect Hill. General Israel Putnam ordered immediate fortifications. Prospect Hill offered a commanding view. It overlooked Boston, the British fleet, and the countryside. The British tried to dislodge the colonists. Prospect Hill became the “Citadel.” It was the strongest fortification in the American Revolution’s frontline.
From Prospect Hill, the British were visible across the Charles River. General George Washington often visited to assess British formations. On January 1, 1776, the American flag was first officially raised here. This wasn’t the Stars and Stripes. Instead, soldiers raised the “Grand Union Flag.” This flag represented the thirteen united colonies. It bore a resemblance to the British Union Jack.
Between 1777 and 1778, Prospect Hill served as a prison. British soldiers captured at Saratoga were held here.
In 1903, a 42-foot tower was built to commemorate Prospect Hill’s historical importance. The tower resembles a Medieval-era castle turret. Today, Prospect Hill Park offers stunning views of the Boston skyline.
Each New Year’s Day, the Grand Union Flag is raised again atop Prospect Hill. This tradition began with General George Washington in 1776.
Prospect Hill remains a testament to courage and resilience. Its story echoes through the centuries, a reminder of the fight for freedom. Take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made on this very ground.