Revolution 250 Presents: 250th Anniversary Commemoration of Henry Knox’s Noble Train of Artillery

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FREE, Reservations required 

Join the towns of the Berkshires as we commemorate the 250th anniversary of one of the most extraordinary feats of the American Revolution: Colonel Henry Knox’s daring winter journey to bring the captured cannon of Fort Ticonderoga to the Continental Army in Boston. In January 1776, Knox’s massive caravan of oxen, sleds, and artillery wound its way through the Berkshires—passing directly through Great Barrington—on its way to reshape the balance of the siege and, ultimately, the fate of the Revolution. 

This special anniversary event will highlight the Berkshire’s role in the epic “Noble Train of Artillery,” celebrating the ingenuity, determination, and community spirit that made Knox’s mission possible. Featuring historical presentations, living history demonstrations, family-friendly activities, and period music, the commemoration will bring to life the challenges of transporting more than 60 tons of artillery across frozen rivers, steep hills, and snow-covered roads. 

Residents, visitors, and history enthusiasts are invited to gather in honor of the men, animals, and townspeople whose perseverance helped secure the Continental Army’s first great strategic victory. As we mark this milestone in America’s founding story, towns throughout the Berkshires proudly remember its place along the path that helped lead to independence. 

The commemorative program at the Mahaiwe theater will include remarks from Massachusetts Daughters of the American Revolution State Regent Mary Tedesco, Revolution 250 Committee Chair Professor Robert J. Allison, representatives from the Office of the Governor of Massachusetts, State Sen. Paul Mark (D – Berkshire, Hampden, Franklin, and Hampshire District), and State Rep. Leigh Davis (D – 3rd Berkshire District).

A central feature of the program will be the presentation of commemorative plaques to representatives of the Berkshire communities that aided Knox and his men along the route: Alford, North Egremont, Great Barrington, Monterey, Sandisfield, Otis, Russell, and Blandford. These presentations honor not only the historic role these towns played in supporting the Noble Train, but also the collective sacrifice and cooperation that sustained the cause of American independence.

For more information on Berkshires 250 programming visit https://berkshires.org/berkshires250/