Leslie’s Retreat: How Salem Defied British Forces Before the Revolution
Two months before the first shots rang out at Lexington and Concord, Salem, Massachusetts witnessed its own dramatic confrontation with British forces. On a tense February morning in 1775, Salem’s citizens stood their ground against British Colonel Alexander Leslie and his troops in what would become known as “Leslie’s Retreat” – a pivotal moment that demonstrated the growing resistance to British military authority in colonial America.
A Forgotten Chapter of Revolutionary History
When British Colonel Alexander Leslie marched his troops into Salem on February 26, 1775, his mission seemed straightforward: confiscate cannons reportedly hidden by local residents. Instead, he encountered a community ready to defend its rights. Local militia members and citizens, acting swiftly and decisively, blocked the North River Bridge, preventing British forces from completing their search.
What makes this confrontation particularly remarkable is its peaceful resolution. Despite the high tensions, both sides managed to reach an agreement without bloodshed – a diplomatic victory that nonetheless highlighted the deepening crisis between Britain and its colonies.
Commemorating 250 Years of American Spirit
To mark the 250th anniversary of this significant event, the Essex National Heritage Area, Salem Maritime National Historic Site, and Minute Man National Historical Park have joined forces to create “Leslie’s Retreat: Salem on the Brink of Revolution,” a compelling new exhibit at the Salem Armory Regional Visitor Center.
Exhibition Details
- Location: Salem Armory Regional Visitor Center (2 New Liberty Street, Salem)
- Dates: February 21 – April 27, 2025
- Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 10 am to 4 pm
- Admission: Free
The exhibition opens with a special reception on Friday, February 21 at 5 pm, featuring a lecture by Salem Maritime National Historic Site curator Dr. Emily Murphy at 6:30 pm. This presentation offers visitors a unique opportunity to delve deeper into this fascinating chapter of American history.
Beyond the Exhibition
The commemoration extends throughout Salem, with various community events planned to honor this historic moment. The city-wide celebration reflects the ongoing importance of preserving and sharing our revolutionary heritage, reminding us that the path to American independence was paved with countless acts of courage and conviction in communities across the colonies.
This exhibition is part of a broader initiative to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, highlighting Salem’s crucial role in the nation’s journey toward independence. Through careful preservation and interpretation of events like Leslie’s Retreat, we continue to understand and appreciate the complexities of our shared history.
For those interested in exploring more revolutionary history or participating in additional commemorative events, visit Salem400’s Leslie’s Retreat page or Essex Heritage’s Revolution 250 programming.
Essex Heritage, the non-profit management entity for Essex National Heritage Area, works in partnership with the National Park Service to preserve and promote the unique historic, cultural, and natural resources of Essex County. For more information about Essex Heritage and its programs, visit essexheritage.org or call (978) 740-0444.
