CONCORD – Archaeologists in Concord, Massachusetts, have discovered five musket balls believed to have been fired on April 19, 1775, during an incident famously known as “the shot that was heard round the world” at Minute Man National Historical Park.
The musket balls were discovered by archaeologists clearing the site for the park’s Great American Outdoors Act project.
National Park Service
“It’s incredible to pluck a musket ball out of the ground, hold it in your hand and know that the last person to touch this ball fired it down the barrel on the morning of April 19, 1775,” said Jarrad Foose, Minuteman Park Ranger and historic arms expert.
“The gunshot that reverberated around the world”
The National Park Service said initial analysis of the 18th century musket ball indicates it was fired by colonial militia at British troops during the Battle of North Bridge.
Historians say the battle marked the first time a state militia leader ordered his members to open fire on his own government soldiers.
Ralph Waldo Emerson later dubbed the incident “the shot that heard the world” because of its impact in intensifying the conflict between colonial rebels and British forces.
Historical Discoveries at Minute Man National Historical Park
The musket balls were found in a corner of the park where British soldiers had gathered to resist an enemy crossing. Analysis of the musket balls showed that they had been fired from the other side of the river and had not been dropped during a reload.
“It’s incredible that we can see here just a few seconds of history that changed the world almost 250 years ago,” said Fouos. “Collectively, these musket shots can be considered ‘the shot that resounded around the world,’ and it’s incredible that they have survived this long. It’s also a poignant reminder that we are all stewards of this battlefield, and we are here to preserve and protect our shared history.”
The musket balls will be on display during the park’s Archaeology Day on Saturday, July 13.