The Danvers Historical Society invites you to follow along with us as we explore the people and events leading up to the War of Independence. Where possible, these stories will relate specifically to Danvers and the surrounding area of Essex County. Follow along and Discover Danvers!
5 June | Joseph Bell of Danvers, captured on April 19 was released in a prisoner exchange. Essex Heritage Road to Revolution
10 June | General Gage's account of the Battles of Lexington & Concord are published in London Road to Revolution
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14 June | A convention held at Worcester resolves “that we abhor the enslaving of any of the human race, and particularly of the negroes in this country; and that, whenever there shall be a door opened, or opportunity presented, for any thing to be done towards the emancipation of the negroes, we will use our influence and endeavor that such a thing may be brought about.” Road to Revolution
16 June | “The Continental Congress commissioned George Washington as Commander in Chief of the Continental Army on June 16, 1775. Washington was selected over other candidates such as John Hancock based on his previous military experience and the hope that a leader from Virginia could help unite the colonies.” Library of Congress
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17 June | Bunker Hill: “The battle took place in the hilly landscape of Charlestown, Massachusetts, across the Charles River from Boston. The battle was named after Bunker Hill, the highest hill in the area, but took place on Breed's Hill, which was closer to the river.” Charlestown is burned. To read recently discovered eyewitness accounts of the battle go to Alexander Cain’s May 10, 2025 blogpost, historicalnerdery
The Bell Tavern in Danvers (now Peabody) was a halting place for Colonel Timothy Pickering’s regiment on their way to the Battle of Bunker Hill. The Bell Tavern was built by Francis Symonds, a second lieutenant in Capt. Samuel Epes’ militia company. He was its proprietor from 1757-1775. Symonds died in September, 1775. DHC Vol. 44, p. 81
Major-General Israel Putnam, born in Danvers on January 7, 1718 was a commander in the battle. He is credited with the saying “Don’t fire until you see the whites of their eyes”. His homestead is now Putnam Pantry.
Other Danvers natives serving were Asa Prince, Gideon Foster, and General Moses Porter who was only 19 years old when he served in the Battle of Bunker Hill. Beside old Hearth-stones, p.194-223
For a summary of the battle see Mass Historical.
25 June | Massachusetts issues an appeal to the governments of Rhode Island, Connecticut and New Hampshire for more troops. Road to Revolution
On June 20-22, see a re-enactment of the Battle of Bunker Hill at Stage Fort Park in Gloucester.
For the complete timeline of significant events, go to DanversHistory.org
