The Lexington Minuteman Statue

The Lexington Minuteman Statue is a life-size bronze figure of a colonial farmer holding a musket, standing at the southeast corner of the Lexington Battle Green. It faces the route of the British advance on April 19, 1775, the morning of the Battle of Lexington. The statue was sculpted by artist Henry H. Kitson and is listed among the historical attractions of Lexington’s cultural district.

The statue was unveiled on April 19, 1900, for the 125th anniversary of the battle. It was originally meant to represent the common Minuteman, the local volunteers who stood ready to respond to threats, but it has come to be known as Captain John Parker, who led the Lexington militia that morning. Before the battle Parker told his men, “Stand your ground. Don’t fire unless fired upon, but if they mean to have a war, let it begin here.”

What to Know

• The statue can be viewed year-round.
• Parker’s words are etched on a plaque near the statue.
• Before the statue, the spot served as a drinking fountain and watering place for people, horses, cattle and dogs.
• The Battle of Lexington is widely regarded as the opening clash of the American Revolutionary War.