John Parker Day

John Parker Day is an annual American holiday commemorating this famous Independence War hero. John Parker worked on a farm and was a mechanic, but at a difficult time for the country he was able to unite around him patriots who contributed greatly to the formation of the United States as an independent country. The holiday is celebrated on April 19.

History

John Parker was born on July 13, 1729. He spent his childhood and youth in the British Massachusetts colony. He worked on a farm and was quite good at mechanical devices. His life changed forever on April 19, 1775, when General Gage of the British forces ordered his soldiers to collect all the guns in Concord. That same day, Parker decided to form a small resistance unit of about seven dozen patriots.

The decision was made to let the British into the city and then attack. An unexpected attack from several directions disoriented the soldiers. A bloody battle ensued. Because of the superior numbers of the British (about 700 men), the outcome was a foregone conclusion, but the militia was able to buy time and foil Gage’s plans.

Unfortunately, Parker did not live to see the wonderful moment of independence, and died on September 17, 1775, of long-standing tuberculosis.

Interesting facts

• Parker’s detachment was able to kill over 300 British soldiers, over 100 were wounded.
• The Lexington Minuteman statue, erected in 1900, is associated by many people with Parker, but we cannot speak of an external resemblance, as no picture of John has survived.

How to celebrate

Learn more about the activities of the Parker Volunteer Detachment. Visit historical museums to increase your awareness of the American War of Independence.

Spread the word on social media. Let more people know about it!

When John Parker Day celebrated in 2023?

John Parker Day is observed on April 19 each year.

Observations