2. The Seizure of Black Powder: Lexington, Concord, and the First Shots of the Revolution Author: Patrick O'Donnell Book Title: The Indispensables: The Diverse Soldier Mariners Who Shaped the Country, Formed the Navy, and Rowed Washington across the Delaw

2. The Seizure of Black Powder: Lexington, Concord, and the First Shots of the Revolution

Author: Patrick O'Donnell

Book Title: The Indispensables: The Diverse Soldier Mariners Who Shaped the Country, Formed the Navy, and Rowed Washington across the Delaware

Black powder was the most crucial resource for the nascent revolution, as it did not exist in the colonies, making guns useless without it. The British actively sought to seize all gunpowder in New England. The Marbleheaders, utilizing their established supply lines, brought in the bulk of the powder and arms the British were trying to confiscate. A key early action occurred on December 14, 1774, during the raid on Fort William and Mary, which was a main powder source for the British. Led by John Sullivan and John Langdon, the raiders—tipped off by Marblehead intelligence—stormed the fort and seized the powder and cannon; the few shots fired here are considered the "first shots" of the American Revolution. Following this, in April 1775, the British marched toward Lexington and Concord. Marblehead leaders, including Elbridge Gerry, were meeting nearby and fled into a cornfield, fearing arrest. The returning British column faced thousands of angry militiamen, including the Marbleheaders, who fought them during their retreat along the Battle Road. This included a deadly stand at Menotomy (Arlington), where many patriots were slaughtered.