Overview
- The observance featured a memorial Mass at St. Augustine’s Chapel, a procession to Dorchester Heights, musket and cannon salutes, and appearances by Gov. Maura Healey and Mayor Michelle Wu.
- The 115‑foot Dorchester Heights monument at Thomas Park reopened after a multimillion‑dollar renovation reported at about $37 million.
- Reenactors, bands, and heritage groups—including units honoring Henry Knox and assets from Fort Ticonderoga—joined residents for ceremonies across South Boston.
- Evacuation Day marks March 17, 1776, when Washington’s forces, having emplaced artillery on Dorchester Heights, compelled the British withdrawal and ended an 11‑month siege in the Continental Army’s first major victory.
- Contemporary accounts record roughly 11,000 people departing with the British, including about 8,900 troops, and note abandoned stores and artillery, while Washington tightened guards and barred unauthorized entry into Boston.