Bunker Hill Monument
INFO
The Bunker Hill Monument stands 221 feet tall and is located on Breed's Hill, the site of the first major battle of the American Revolution. The battle was fought on June 17, 1775. Control of this high ground near the harbor was important to the British occupation of Boston. When colonial forces chose to fortify Charlestown, they bypassed the more dominant "Bunker Hill" and dug in on Breed's Hill which was lower and closer to the water.
"Don't fire until you see the whites of their eyes" is the legendary order attributed to Colonel William Prescott to make sure that each shot would count. The poorly trained and ill prepared colonial forces repelled two major assaults by the British Army before retreating. Almost half of the British soldiers were either killed or injured. The British lost a large percentage of their officers, as well. Although the colonists lost the battle, their bravery and strong showing against the British encouraged them to fight on.
The public is able to climb the 294 steps that lead to the pinnacle of the Monument. There are no elevators in the monument; however, the amazing vista at the end of the journey is well worth it.
GETTING THERE
The Bunker Hill Monument is located in a residential neighborhood, and on street parking is extrememly limited.
Bunker Hill Community College on the Orange Line is the closest MBTA station. This station is also served by several MBTA bus routes.
The Lodge at the base of the Monument can be reached either by stairs or a long wheelchair ramp. The entrance to the Lodge is accessible. The entrance to the the Museum at 43 Monument Square is accessible.
GETTING AROUND
The Lodge at the base of the Bunker Hill Monument is accessible, via a long ramp. The Monument itself is NOT accessible. There is no elevator. There are no restrooms at the Monument itself, but there are accessible restrooms across the street at the Bunker Hill Museum. The Bunker Hill Museum is a three story building with elevator access.
Accessible restrooms are available at the Bunker Hill Museum located at 43 Monument Square.
OTHER
The Monument itself is not accessible. The Freedom Trail route leading to the Monment follows streets and sidewalks that are steep and narrow. Many curb cuts are not up to ADA standards, both in width and grade. Wheelchair and scooter users should proceed with extreme caution and expect obstacles.