Essex County Timeline of Events Leading to the American Revolution (1766 to 1777)

The information in this timeline was taken from “ROAD TO REVOLUTION 250: Massachusetts Historical Events” Assembled by Jonathan Lane, J. L. Bell, Bob Allison & many others as part of the Massachusetts Rev250 initiative. *This timeline should be considered a work in progress as it will grow as we source more important events.

You can download the full pdf version of “ROAD TO REVOLUTION 250: Massachusetts Historical Events” timlinehere: Massachusetts Revolutionary War Events 7-23-21

 

1766
January 30, 1766
May 16, 1766
1768
January 11, 1768
September 8, 1768
September 19, 1768
November 29, 1768
1769
April 22, 1769
May 15, 1769
June 13, 1769
June 20, 1769
June 21, 1769
June 21, 1769
1770
March 12, 1770
March 13, 1770
March 23, 1770
March 27, 1770
April 9, 1770
May 10, 1770
May 21, 1770
May 24, 1770
June 5, 1770
1772
December 8, 1772
December 16, 1773
1774
June 10, 1774
August 1, 1774
August 9, 1774
August 17, 1774
August 22, 1774
August 25, 1774
September 6, 1774
September 7, 1774
September 28, 1774
October 4, 1774
October 5, 1774
October 6, 1774
October 7, 1774
October 7, 1774
November 29, 1774
1775
February 6, 1775
February 26, 1775
April 18, 1775
April 19, 1775
April 19,1775
April 19, 1775
April 20, 1775
April 28, 1775
July 18, 1775
July 23, 1775
August 9, 1775
September 2, 1775
September 7, 1775
September 19, 1775
October 4, 1775
October 10, 1775
November 25, 1775
November 27, 1775
November 29, 1775
December 2, 1775
1776
May 9, 1776
May 21, 1776
May 22, 1776
May 27, 1776
May 31, 1776
June 1, 1776
June 10, 1776
June 17, 1776
June 17, 1776
June 21, 1776
July 1, 1776
July 4, 1776
July 16, 1776
September 14, 1776
1777
July 23, 1777
1766

January 30, 1766

Marblehead, MA

“The Populace assembled to the Number of several Hundreds on the Training-Hill (so called) where they soon erected a stately Bonfire, with a Staff in the Centre, whereon they hoisted the Object of their Displeasancy, and the whole was consumed amidst the loudest Acclamations of Loyalty to the King, and Love to their Country. After this they retired to a Tavern, where many Toasts expressive of their Regard to the happy Constitution procur’d by their Ancestors, were drank; and Peace and good Harmony crown’d the Night.” Boston News-letter; February 6, 1766; pg.3

May 16, 1766

Marblehead, MA

“An excellent member of society, civil and ecclesiastical, from pure and unadulterated patriotism, displayed his feelings by a golden candlestick for the place of the king, and a silver candlestick for each of his ministers, beautifully illuminating his illuminated house” and that the town paid Benjamin Thompson to go about the streets beating his drum.

1768

January 11, 1768

Lynn, MA

“We are informed that a Number of Gentlemen in Lynn, for the further Satisfaction of the Public, having made thorough Examination into the Extent of the Shoe Manufacture in that Town, have found that instead of 40,000 Pair the Number we inserted in this Paper, as being made there in a Year, more than 80,000 might have been mentioned with the strictest Regard to the Truth.” Boston Gazette & Country Journal; January 11, 1768; p.2

September 8, 1768

Salem, MA

The ransacking of Jesse Saville’s house by a mob from Gloucester angered over the seizure of a ship bringing undeclared molasses into Salem.

September 19, 1768

Newburyport, MA

We hear that on Saturday last two Informers, an Englishman and Frenchman, were taken up by the Populace at Newbury-Port, who tarred them and feathered them; but being late they were handcuffed and put into custody until the Sabbath was over: Accordingly on Monday Morning they were again tarred and rolled in Feathers, then fixed in a Cart with Halters, and carried through the principal Streets of the Town, to the View of the Gallows, but what further we do not hear. Boston Post Boy; 19 Sept 1768; p.3

November 29, 1768

Salem, MA

“Francis Bernard, Esq., Son to his Excellency the Governor, gave an elegant Ball, at the Assembly Room, to a very considerable Number of the Ladies and Gentlemen of this Town; at which the former made, as usual a brilliant Appearance.”

1769

April 22, 1769

Salem, MA

At sea - the Brig Pitt was overtaken and stopped by HMS Rose. Lieutenant Panton and a squad of Marines boarded her and attempted to impress some sailors. These sailors, led by Michael Corbett, killed Lt. Panton.

May 15, 1769

Gloucester, MA

Gloucester MA Capt. Samuel Fellowes and crew attempt to rescue Josiah Merrill arrested for debt from the Sherriff.

June 13, 1769

Beverly, MA

60 Young ladies spun yarn of Flax and Cotton Wool at the Rev. Mr. Champney's House. They spun 120 knot skeins.

June 20, 1769

Rowley, MA

33 “respectable ladies” of this town met at the House of Rev. Mr. Jedediah Jewett on a spinning Match. One woman had 84 1/2 knots of Linen yarn, another 87 of tow and others near the same of Tow and Cotton. One little miss had 70 knots, lacking 10 threads.

June 21, 1769

Ipswich, MA

77 women met at the house of Revd. Mr. John Cleaveland and spun 440 knots of Linen, carded and spun 730 knots of Cotton, 600 knots of Tow.

June 21, 1769

Wenham, MA

38 women met at the Revd. Joseph Swain's House with flax, wool and wheels and spun till 6 p.m.; the quantity of yard was 75 Run.

1770

March 12, 1770

Salem, MA

Salem Votes to support the Non-importation agreement.

March 13, 1770

Salisbury, MA

Salisbury Votes to Support the Non-Importation Agreement.

March 23, 1770

Gloucester, MA

Jesse Saville, a tidesman in the Customs service was seized from his house and tarred and feathered for informing on ships landing goods in Gloucester.

March 27, 1770

Gloucester, MA

Gloucester votes to support the Non-Importation Agreement.

April 9, 1770

Haverhill, MA

Haverhill votes to support the Non-Importation agreement.

May 10, 1770

Marblehead, MA

Marblehead votes to support the Non-Importation agreement.

May 21, 1770

Andover, MA

Andover votes to support the Non-Importation agreement.

May 24, 1770

Boxford, MA

Boxford votes to support the Non-Importation agreement.

June 5, 1770

Salem, MA

The Committee of Inspection hereby inform the Publick, that all the Cheese imported from Great-Britain this season, into Salem, has (by the consent of the Importer, being a perishable article) been sold at public auction to the highest bidder; and what it should fetch more than the sterling cost and charges to be given to the poor.

1772

December 8, 1772

Marblehead, MA

Marblehead MA Town meeting approves a standing Committee of Correspondence to communicate with other communities.

December 16, 1773

Boston, MA

“Body met, pursuant to Adjournt: And were inform’d by Mr. Rotch, that a Clearance was refus’d him, they enjoined him immediately to enter a Protest against the Custom-House, and apply to the Govr. for a passport by the Castle, and adjourn’d again till 3 o’Clock P.M. At which Time they met, and after waiting till near Sunset, Mr. Rotch came in and inform’d them that he had accordingly entered his Protest, and waited on the Govr. a pass but his Excy: told him he could not consistent with his duty grant it untill his vessel was qualified. – The People finding all their Efforts to preserve the property of the East-India Company and return it safely to London frustrated by the Tea Consignees, the Collector of the Customs, and the Govr. of the Province, dissolved their meeting. – But behold! what followed! – A Number of brave and resolute Men, determined to do all in their power save their Country from the ruin which their Enemies had plotted, in less than four hours emptied every Chest of Tea on board the three Ships, commanded by the Capts. Hall, Bruce, and Coffin, amounting to 342 Chests into the Sea! without the least damage being done to the Ships or any other property. The Masters and Owners are well pleas’d that their Ships are thus clear’d – and the people are almost universally congratulating each other on this happy Event. Mr. Paul Revere was immediately dispatched express to New-York and Philadelphia with the Glorious Intelligence.”

1774

June 10, 1774

Danvers, MA

Governor Gage resides at the residence of the Hon. Robert Hooper about 4 miles from Salem. The General Court is ordered to assemble at Salem.

August 1, 1774

Marblehead, MA

Arrival of General Gage and a company of the 59th Regiment of Foot to attend the meeting of the General Court in Salem.

August 9, 1774

Danvers, MA

The Governor announces his list of Mandamus Councillors - 35 Nominated; 18 Resign.

August 17, 1774

Salem, MA

The Boston Corps of Cadets return their flag to Governor Thomas Gage and disband themselves.

August 22, 1774

Salem, MA

In defiance of the Massachusetts Government Act - the people of Salem hold a town meeting which the 59th Regiment of Foot attempt to break up.

August 25, 1774

Salem, MA

In response to their calling together a meeting of the Freeholders and Merchants of the town to choose representatives to a County Convention, General Gage has the Salem Committee of Correspondence arrested.

September 6, 1774

Marblehead, MA

Town meeting votes to have their militia regiment train 4 days a week with arms and ammunition.

September 7, 1774

Ipswich, MA

The Essex County Convention passes the Essex Result.

September 28, 1774

Danvers, MA

Following the county conventions and the passage of their resolves, Governor Gage issues a proclamation canceling the earlier writ calling for an election of representatives to the General Court.

October 4, 1774

Salem, MA

A cask of tea was brought into town by Benjamin Jackson a Boston Merchant; it was being sold by a negro servant of Charles Paxton. The tea was confiscated, publicly burnt, and the fellow obliged to leave town.

October 5, 1774

Salem, MA

The General Court meets in Salem by order of Governor Gage’s September 1, 1774 writ.

October 6, 1774

Salem, MA

The General Court resolves itself into a Convention with John Hancock as President to consider Governor Gage’s September 28 proclamation.

October 7, 1774

Salem, MA

The Massachusetts Convention resolves itself into Provincial Congress “to take into consideration the dangerous and alarming situation of public affairs in this province, and to consult and determine on such measures as they shall judge will tend to promote the true interest of his majesty, and the peace, welfare, and prosperity of the province.”

October 7, 1774

Salem, MA

A great fire in Salem burns a number of houses and buildings causing 20,000lb. damage.

November 29, 1774

Concord/Salem, MA

A messenger be dispatched to the town of Salem in order to gain what intelligence can be had by the last vessels from London, and that the messenger bring with him the Essex paper to this Congress – Mr. Bigelow to undertake the service. – Journal of the Provincial Congress.

1775

February 6, 1775

Rowley, MA

John Sawyer of Rowley offers a Troop of Horse to the Provincial Congress.

February 26, 1775

Salem, MA

“The 64th Regiment of Foot commanded by Lt. Col. Leslie, embarked at the Castle on board a Transport and sail’d for Marblehead, where they arrived about 3 o’Clock Afternoon (Sunday) – As soon as the people had gone to meeting the decks were covered with Soldiers who having loaded and fixed their Bayonets landed with great dispatch, and marched off instantly; some of the Inhabitants suspecting they were bound to Salem, to seize some Materials there preparing for an Artillery, dispatched some Messengers to inform them of it. – These Materials were on the North Side of the North-River, and to come at them it was necessary to cross a Bridge, one part of which was made to draw up for the convenience of Vessels passing through. The Inhabitants mustered and repaired to the Bridge, keeping a good look-out for the Troops; at length they arrived, when the Bridge was drawn up, and their progress in pursuit of the military stores stopped. The Colonel expressed his surprize at their Conduct, and asked why the King’s High Way was obstructed He was told it was not the King’s road, but the property of the Inhabitants, who had a right to do what they pleased with it. Finally the Col. said he must go over it, and if the Bridge were let down so that he might pass, he pledged his honor he would not march above 30 Rods beyond it, and then immediately return. The Regt. had now been on the Bridge about an hour and an half; and everything being secured the Inhabitants directed it to be let down, and the Regt. passed over, marched a few Rods, returned and with great expedition went back to Marblehead, embarked on board the Transport, and sailed for Boston – They bro’t with them Lanthorns, Axes, Hatchets, Handspikes, &c., but had no occasion to use them.”

April 18, 1775

Boston-Concord, MA

Paul Revere & William Dawes set out to warn the countryside. Revere and Dawes use separate routes and warn the Minute Men from Boston to Lexington. Dr. Samuel Prescott carries the warning to Concord.

April 19, 1775

Lexington, MA

Crown Forces and Massachusetts Minute Men clash on Lexington Green. Eight militia men are killed and ten are wounded. His Majesty's soldiers continue to Concord.

April 19,1775

Concord, MA

Skirmish between Crown forces and militia units at North bridge, Concord.

April 19, 1775

Arlington , MA

Militia troops gathered in Menotomy (now Arlington) and prepared to intercept British Troops making their way back to Boston from Lexington & Concord. 11 men from eastern Middlesex County and southern Essex County were killed, making this the bloodiest battle of April 19th.

April 20, 1775

Haverhill, MA

The first troops from New Hampshire arrive in Haverhill at dusk.

April 28, 1775

Salem, MA

Captain John Derby sails in his schooner the Quero with the reports on the Lexington-Concord fight

July 18, 1775

Salem, MA

Captain John Derby returns to Salem with news of the effect of the dispatches about Lexington which he had carried to London.

July 23, 1775

Salem, MA

John Pitts, Oliver Wendell and William Greenleaf to meet with the selectmen of Salem and Proprietors of the hospital for the reception of the poor and displaced of Boston & Charlestown.

August 9, 1775

Marblehead, MA

HMS Falcon in pursuit of a loaded schooner that sailed into Marblehead harbor sent in armed boats to take control of it. Militia fired on the parties from the shore, which prompted the HMS Falcon to bombard the town. The militia succeeded in capturing both schooners, the cutter, the two barges, the boat, and every man in them. Captured 35 men of wars men – 24 of them sent to Ipswich and then Worcester Jail.

September 2, 1775

Cambridge/Beverly, MA

Washington, authorising the conversion of fishing vessels into armed ships, commissions Nicholas Broughton as a captain in the army. He is directed to take a crew aboard the schooner “Hannah, at Beverly....to cruise against such Vessels as may be found on the High Seas or elsewhere... and to take and seize all such vessels.”

September 7, 1775

Beverly, MA

The Hannah, under Captain Nicholas Broughton returns to port with her first capture, the British vessel, the Unity, with fish, provisions, lumber, and naval stores.

September 19, 1775

Newburyport, MA

Arnold's troops sail from Newburyport, and late that day they reach the mouth of the Kennebec.

October 4, 1775

Salem, MA

General Washington directs Col. Glover and Stephen Moylan to equip two armed vessels at Salem, Marblehead, or Newburyport as privateers, and to name agents at several Cape Ann Towns to take care of any prizes taken.

October 10, 1775

Beverly, MA

HMS Nautilus chases a ship into shallow water near Beverly - gets fired on by guns brought ashore from the stranded vessel. HMS Nautilus fires upon the town.

November 25, 1775

Near Salem, MA

The ship Lee, commanded by Captain John Manly, captured the brig HMS Nancy filled with Ordnance stores for the garrison at Boston. Her cargo included 2,000 muskets with bayonets, 100,000 flints, 30,000 round shot, 30 tons of musket balls, and a 13-inch brass mortar.

November 27, 1775

Marblehead, MA

Captain John Manly sights British ordnance vessels off the Massachusetts coast and captures one, the Nancy, which contains a large supply of muskets, flints, and shot. Three other transports and two ships with ordnance stores arrive in Boston.

November 29, 1775

Gloucester, MA

Captain John Manley and the Lee captured the 300-ton ship Concord.

December 2, 1775

Salem, MA

A ship 200 tons burthen loaded with Coal and Base Goods from Scotland taken by a privateer and carried into Salem.

1776

May 9, 1776

Salisbury, MA

The General Assembly at Watertown ordered the Sloop at Salisbury, now fixing out by this colony for the Defence of America to bear the name Tyrannicide.

May 21, 1776

Salisbury, MA

Salisbury votes to support American Independence.

May 22, 1776

Rowley, MA

Rowley votes to support American Independence.

May 27, 1776

Newbury, MA

Newbury votes to support American Independence.

May 31, 1776

Newburyport, MA

Newburyport votes to support American Independence.

June 1, 1776

Salem, MA

The election of the representatives of Salem to the General Court was disallowed because their electors voted by kernels of corn and pease.

June 10, 1776

Marblehead, MA

Capture of HMS Ann, transport with Capt. Hamish Maxwell and the Light Infantry of the 71st Regiment of Foot.

June 17, 1776

Marblehead, MA

Marblehead votes to support American Independence.

June 17, 1776

Middleton, MA

Middleton Votes to support American Independence.

June 21, 1776

Topsfield, MA

Topsfield votes to support American Independence.

July 1, 1776

Amesbury, MA

Amesbury votes to support American Independence.

July 4, 1776

Philadelphia, PA

Adoption of the Declaration of Independence.

July 16, 1776

Salem, MA

The Declaration of Independence is printed in the Salem American Gazette and in the Massachusetts Spy.

September 14, 1776

Salem, MA

Two black sailors captured on the high seas having been advertised for sale in Salem, the General Court passes a resolution forbidding their sale and calls for them to be treated as prisoners of war.

1777

July 23, 1777

Marblehead, MA

Count Casimir Pulaski arrives in North America to seek service with the American forces under recommendation of Benjamin Franklin.