Old Powder House

In the years leading up to the revolution, the Old Powder House contained the largest supply of gunpowder in the state. Which is why the patriots were alarmed when British troops raided the facility and confiscated the ammunition on September 1, 1774. It was part of a British attempt to keep the peace after levying the Intolerable Acts, but patriot sympathizers mistook the move to be threatening, and rumors spread wildly.

Men came from all over the region, forming militia groups that were prepared to fight. Known as the Powder Alarm, the tension was eventually diffused. But the incident caused the British to call for reinforcements from London; and it impressed upon the revolutionary movement the need for preparedness. During the War for Independence, this facility became the main munitions depot for the Continental Army. The powder house is not open but the park is a pleasant place to stroll. Walk north from Davis on College Ave.