April 19, 2025, in Massachusetts was a festive occasion with hundreds of thousands of people from around the world gathering to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the first battles of the American Revolution. Across Concord and surrounding towns, hundreds of volunteers, museums, shops, restaurants, art galleries, and town staff worked tirelessly for months leading up to the commemorations. They worked hard to showcase the very best of the historic region to visitors from around the world – from American Revolutionary history to literary legends, beautiful parks and nature, and a wide array of cultural institutions.

As the historic moment approached, two independent, women-owned Concord publishers – Barefoot Books and Voyager Publishing – rose to the occasion and created lasting tributes to this historic anniversary. 

Voyager Publishing, the creator of Discover Concord, launched Discover the Battle Road – a stunning commemorative issue in honor of the 250th anniversary of the first battles of the American Revolution. Focused on the period from the Boston Massacre through the Declaration of Independence, and the geographic region covering the Battle Road communities and the Minute Man National Historical Park, the dedicated issue celebrates the courage that forged America. The keepsake publication features powerful stories of the men and women of the time, including those whose stories are less well known, vibrant photography, walking maps, and information on the museums and cultural institutions throughout the region.

“We take our responsibility for sharing our regional history with the nation and the world seriously,” said co-founder Cynthia Baudendistel. “We are grateful for the support and collaboration of the National Park Service, Freedom’s Way National Heritage Area, the Concord250 Corporation, and a host of local historians, docents, reenactors, photographers, and writers who brought their knowledge and talent to help us create Discover the Battle Road.”

Barefoot Books, known for its thoughtful and engaging children’s books, released Rise Up! Powerful Protests in American History. Written by Rachel C. Katz and illustrated by Sophie Bass, the book is a powerful reminder for young readers that activism is woven into the fabric of America. 

“Activism and democracy go hand in hand,” says Barefoot Books CEO and Co-Founder Nancy Traversy. “At a time when voices for justice are being challenged, Rise Up! reminds children that standing up for what’s right is not just part of history – it’s part of their future. This book is a celebration of resilience, courage, and the enduring spirit of protest that has shaped and will continue to shape America.” 

Barefoot Books and Voyager Publishing saw an opportunity to collaborate closely during the 250 celebrations – both to lift up one another’s publications, and to shine a spotlight on the important role that cultural institutions such as the Concord Museum, Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House, the Robbins House, the Scout House, and the Wright Tavern play in preserving and sharing Concord’s history. Both publishers donated proceeds from the sale of the books during the Concord250 celebrations back to these museums to support their ongoing work. More than 30 families generously donated to make it possible to send a copy of Discover the Battle Road to every public high school in Massachusetts.

“Collaboration is a wonderful process,” said Jennifer Schünemann, co-founder of Voyager Publishing. “By sharing resources, ideas, and expertise, this incredible group of people was able to make a significant impact in an important moment in our nation’s history. I’ll probably never work on anything more important than this project as a support of my community. Sharing this effort with friends and colleagues across the town made the experience truly unique – a memory I will always cherish.”

You can share a piece of this history by purchasing a copy of these commemorative publications here: 

Discover the Battle Road at DiscoverConcordMA.com/250collectibles 

Rise Up! Powerful Protests in American History at BarefootBooks.com/Rise-Up