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A Brief History of Andover
A Brief History of Andover
1776 American Revolution
Battle of Lexington and Concord
April 19, 1775 the alarm was sounded by church bells, drums, and messengers. The British were marching toward Lexington and Concord. Andover militia gathered at the North Parish Meeting House and prepared to march to battle. Four companies marched with a total of 329 Andover Minute Men. By the time the Andover Minute Men arrived in Lexington, the battle was over. They joined the pursuit of the retreating British troops to Arlington
Andover in the Revolution: Salem Poor
Salem Poor was sold as an infant at the Salem slave market, and brought to Andover by Lydia Abbot. He was baptized in the North Parish Church in 1747. Poor purchased his freedom July 10, 1769 for 27 pounds from John Poor. He was 26 years old when he marched off to war in Capt Ames’ company to Bunker Hill.
Six months after the battle, the Provincial Congress awarded Salem Poor a citation, the only man known to have been singled out for such an honor. In the citation Poor was hailed as an excellent, brave, and gallant soldier. He rejoined the Continental Army October 6, 1775 and served at Fort George, Saratoga, Valley Forge, and Monmouth. Poor was discharged from the arm in 1780 but it is not clear if he returned to Andover.
Reference: Juliet Haines Mofford, Andover Massachusetts: Historical Selections from Four Centuries
Salem Poor, center, fought at the Battle of Bunker Hill. In 1975, a commemorative stamp was made in his honor.
Salem Poor, center, fought at the Battle of Bunker Hill. In 1975, a commemorative stamp was made in his honor.
Preserving the pastEducating for the future
Connecting with our community
Preserving the past
Educating for the future
Connecting with our community
Andover Center for History & Culture
97 Main Street
Andover, MA 01810
978-475-2236
Andover Center for History & Culture
97 Main Street
Andover, MA 01810
978-475-2236
The History Center is funded by individual, foundation, and corporate donations and receives no Town of Andover funding.
Show your commitment to Andover's history by donating today.
The History Center is funded by individual, foundation, and corporate donations and receives no Town of Andover funding.
Show your commitment to Andover's history by donating today.
Show your commitment to Andover's history by donating today.
