Matthew Ahern is the collections specialist historian at the Massachusetts National Guard Museum and serves as a sergeant with the 126th Military History Detachment, Massachusetts Army National Guard. He holds a B.A. in history and English from the University of Massachusetts Lowell and a graduate certificate in public history from Salem State University where he is currently pursuing a M.A. in history. A lover of all things Concord, Matthew has worked at various town historic sites such as The Old Manse and The Robbins House since 2017 and became a licensed town guide in 2019.

Gathering Before the Storm

Concord, the Massachusetts Volunteer Militia, and the Encampment of 1859

March 15, 2024

Matthew Ahern

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In 1859, militiamen were a common sight in Concord, having had a presence in the town for over two centuries. Uncommon, however, was the entirety of the Massachusetts Volunteer Militia descending on the town in early September 1859.

The Fall Issue is Here!

Autumn is here, and there is so much to do in Concord! Discover two dozen events you won't want to miss in Things to See & Do. Handy walking maps and a list of where to shop, eat, and stay are here too. Click on the image for details on what's in store in this issue!

Agents of Change: The Concord Female Anti-Slavery Society

When we think of Concord’s history, images of Walden Pond, the Old North Bridge, Transcendentalists, and Little Women might come to mind. We don’t always think about a remarkable, diverse group of women from Concord’s past dedicated to eradicating slavery. We might not even know their fascinating story. The Concord Female Anti-Slavery Society worked diligently across three decades, becoming important players in the abolitionist cause, and helping to more widely promote its messages.

Militia Companies and the April 19th Alarm

April 19, 1775, marked the first battle of the American Revolution. On that day, 700 British soldiers marched from Boston to Concord to seize a stockpile of military arms and supplies. The expedition caused patriot leaders to raise the alarm and muster the militia. The scale of the response is truly staggering and hints at a surprising amount of organization.

Matthew Ahern

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Gathering Before the Storm