Information & history on back of plaque:

1701 Buckman Tavern, Lexington, MA. Built circa 1710, Buckman Tavern was know as one of the busiest 18th century taverns. But it is best noted for being the gathering place for Minuteman, during the early morning hours of April 19, 1775. Their confrontation with the British later that day was the first major battle of the American Revolution. It was near here, on the Green, where the war's first shot was heard around the world. Today, the interior of Buckman Tavern closely resembles the way it appeared that fateful morning when 77 colonists took their stand against the British. The building is now under the care of the Lexington Historical Society.

1702 Thompson-Neely House, Washington Crossing, PA. It was in the kitchen of this house that George Washington and his staff contrived their plans to cross the Delaware in a three-pronged attack against Hessian soldiers. The surprise appearance of 2,500 determined Continental soldiers provided the needed edge for an American victory on December 25, 1776. This house also served as the headquarters for various officers of the Continental Army. The significance of the events taking place here were so paramount that the house is also is known as the House of Decision.

1703 John Neilson House, Saratoga, NY. The Battles of Saratoga in 1777 helped decide the outcome of the American Revolution. The first was fought at Freeman's Farm, where the Americans withdrew to Bemis Heights. It was the second Battle of Saratoga where British Major General Burgoyne surrendered. This surrender was a turning point in the war, convincing France to actively support the Americans. John Neilson's home was situated inside the Heights and was used by American staff officers during the battles.

1704 Isaac Potts House, Valley Forge, PA. The winter of 1777-1778 took its toll on Washington's poorly clothed and underfed army. More than 2,000 American soldiers died of disease and exposure to the cold that winter. But their luck soon changed. On February 6, a formal alliance between the United States and France was signed. Later that month, Prussian General von Stueben transformed the American troops into a first rate army. The focal point of the camp training and Washington's headquarters was the Isaac Potts House. Soon the ragged army that arrived at Valley Forge late fall of 1777 had changed into an effective, confident, fighting force.

1705 Tennent Church, Monmouth, NJ. (British) Major General Harry Clinton marched his men through New Jersey to Sandy Hook on land to avoid an attack by sea. But his soldiers were unable to avoid the attack Washington's men siccessfully sprung. This victory provided America with the war's last major battle in the north. Tennent Church saw the aftermath of this battle, and was used as a temporary field hospital. The scars and stains still remain in the pews, from the surgeon's saw and patriots' blood, many of whom are buried in this churchyard.

1706 Ford Mansion, Morristown, NJ. Washington did not refer to his cohorts as his "staff", but as his "family." This sincerity did not go unnoticed or unrewarded. After Washington ordered a military funeral with full honors for patriot Colonel Jacob Ford, Ford's appreciative widow graciously offered Washington use of her mansion. Concerned for her valuables, Ford stored them away during the house's use. For nearly seven months during the 1779 and 1780 blizzards, Washington functioned in what was one of the finest and largest houses in all the colonies. The determination to taste freedom blazed within the walls of Ford Mansion during the constant meetings, while the snow piled high outside and the temperature hovered at zero. Today, the main hall of the mansion is restored to sparse furnishings, to reflect the era, and Mrs. Ford's concern.

1707 Powder Magazine, Charleston, SC. Constructed around 1713 as part of the city's defenses, the Powder Magazine stands as Charleston's oldest public building. Powder was stored here until May 7, 1780, during the British siege of the city. Americans moved the explosives and stored them in the basement of the Exchange, in fear that a direct hit might set off its 10,000 pounds of powder.

1708 Moore House, Yorktown, VA. The Battle of Yorktown began late September 1781. It lasted approximately five days. Washington and his men capitalized on the wait Cornwallis and his soldiers had on their supplies and reinforcements, which resulted in a victory for the United States. The Battle of Yorktown was the last bloodshed of the Revolutionary War. It was within the walls of the Moore House, October 6-20, 1781, that Britain's surrender was negotiated, and America's freedom was born.

1709 Washington's Flag. During the Revolutionary War, Washington flew his personal flag as Commander-In-Chief. A replica flies over Valley Forge today.

1710 Paul Revere Ride. On April 16, after learning of Britain's plan to destroy America's arms stored in Concord, Dr. Joseph Warren sent Paul Revere to warn Adams and Hancock. Revere rode again on April 18, warning the countryside that, "the British are coming!"

1711 North Bridge, Concord MA. The second confrontation of the Revolutionary War took place at the North Bridge in Concord, on April 19, 1775. The redcoats killed here were the first British fatalities of the war.

1712 Charge at Trenton. On January 2, 1777, after Washington's victory over the Hessian regiments, Cornwallis reached Trenton and planned on attacking Washington's army the next morning. Washington decided to counterattack Cornwallis immediately, rather than wait to be on the defensive. Washington and his men prevailed, and went on their way to Princeton.