Tag Archives: dorchester

British troops leave Boston

Aside

Evacuation Day in Boston marks the departure of the British on March 17, 1776, ending the 11-month “Siege of Boston.” Washington had surprised the British with new fortifications and cannons on Dorchester Heights. The “Evacuation” took troops and Tory citizens to Halifax, NS. Evacuation Day a local holiday In Boston, often combined with St. Patrick’s Day. This broadside by Paul Revere shows the troops arriving by ship in 1775.

Evacuation Day – Dorchester Heights

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Washington at Dorchester Heights

Washington at Dorchester Heights

Evacuation Day and St. Patrick’s Day align in Boston, marking the departure of the British March 17, 1776. This ended the “Siege of Boston”. George Washington seized Dorchester Heights, fortified it with cannons, and surprised the British 2 weeks earlier. Painting by Gilbert Stuart.