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Monson Historical Society

Monson and Our Nation’s Independence

Neighbors, friends, and fellow citizens of Monson, as we gather to celebrate the 250th anniversary of American independence, we remember that the story of our nation was not written only in Philadelphia, Boston, or upon the great battlefields of the Revolution; it was also written here in Monson. Long before the Declaration of Independence was signed, the people of this community shared the growing frustration felt throughout Massachusetts over British taxation, restrictions on self-government, and the increasing authority of Parliament over the colonies. On June 23, 1774, the courageous people of Monson gathered to fiercely reject Parliament’s restrictive Coercive Acts and the cruel blockade of Boston Harbor. In a powerful vote, our ancestors chose economic sacrifice over submission, flatly refusing to import British goods, completely banned the consumption of British tea from their tables, and vowed to strictly isolate and refuse trade with any merchant who sided with the Crown. Two years later, on May 24, 1776, only weeks before the Declaration of Independence was adopted in Philadelphia, the citizens of Monson voted unanimously in favor of independence.

At the very front of this dangerous, noble awakening stood leaders like Major Reuben Munn and Captain Freeborn Moulton, true sons of Monson. When word of the battles of Lexington and Concord reached Monson in April 1775, Captain Moulton gathered Monson’s Minute Men and marched them to Cambridge, where preparations were made for the siege of Boston. Rueben Munn served as a Captain of the militia at the Lexington Alarm, then as Lieutenant Colonel, he successfully led reinforcement detachments to the Northern Army and the Garrison at Ticonderoga. In 1780, Munn would represent Monson in the convention that helped frame the Massachusetts Constitution.

As so many small towns did, Monson answered the call, providing men, resources, and steadfast support to the patriot cause. Monson’s strength was found not only in its leaders, but also in its ordinary citizens who performed extraordinary deeds. Farmers left their fields, craftsmen left their workshops, and young men answered the call to serve in the Continental Army and Massachusetts Militia. Families remaining at home sustained the war effort by providing food, clothing, supplies, and encouragement. Their determination reflected the same spirit that carried the Continental Army through its darkest hours and ultimately secured American liberty.

Today we honor those early citizens whose names are preserved in our town records and cemeteries, and whose legacy lives on in the community they built. Their devotion reminds us that history is shaped not only by celebrated generals and statesmen, but also by neighbors willing to answer the call of duty. As we commemorate America’s 250th birthday, may we remember that Monson stood with the cause of liberty from its very beginning. The freedoms we enjoy today were secured not only by Washington and the Founding Fathers, but also by the steadfast men and women of this town, whose faith, sacrifice, and love of country helped give birth to the United States of America.

Politicking at Monson Summerfest Inc. is STRICTLY PROHIBITED per the Monson Summerfest Inc. policy.

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Location - Dave Grieve Park Gazebo-197 

Main Street, Monson, MA 01057

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Location - Dave Grieve Park Gazebo-197 Main Street, Monson, MA 01057