As America commemorates and celebrates its 250th Anniversary, Ted Reinstein looks back. Way back. Even years before independence was actually achieved, events took place that would shape how the new nation would look back at its founding. 

Paul Revere’s ride? One of the most momentous nights in U.S. history. And, like any big night, there was a bill. And America’s first expense report. Who knew? (The first bean counters even tried to stiff Revere!.) While many New Englanders pride themselves on knowing the difference between Bunker and Breed’s Hill, few know that the bad blood over this historical inaccuracy continues—meet Jed Breed, thirteenth-generation direct descendant of the Boston farmer whose name should be in the history books, not an answer in “Trivial Pursuit.” Find out why Concord and Lexington are still doing battle—not with the British, but each other. Visit historic Copp’s Hill Burying Ground, and find the one headstone the British used for target practice—and why.

All drawn from Ted Reinstein’s nearly three decades of reporting around New England, these stories and more are crafted into a just-under-an-hour talk. If you like history, enjoy learning a story behind the story, or just want a good laugh along with your 250th—“Greetings from Bunker Hill!”

About the Author:

Since 1995, Ted Reinstein has been a reporter for Boston/WCVB’s celebrated “Chronicle,” the nation’s longest-running, locally-produced nightly newsmagazine. He has been a contributing member of the WCVB editorial board since 2010.

His first book, New England Notebook: One Reporter, Six States, Uncommon Stories, was selected by National Geographic Traveler as one of its “Best Picks.” He’s also the author of Wicked Pissed: New England’s Most Famous Feuds, Before Brooklyn: The Unsung Heroes Who Helped Break Baseball’s Color Barrier, and co-author, with his wife, Anne-Marie, of New England’s General Stores: Exploring an American Classic. His newest book, Travels Through the Heart and Soul of New England was released in July 2024 by Globe Pequot Press.

This program is part of our America 250 series

The Library has assistive listening technology for individuals with reduced ranges of hearing that sends sound directly to a hearing device. Contact the library at 978 465-4428 ext. 2 before the program to learn more about this and other assistive technology options. Come and enjoy the theater-like screen and sound system with fellow film buffs. This free event will be held in the Program Room and all are welcome!