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Massachusetts 250 celebration
Bedford, home to the oldest known
American flag—the Bedford Flag—played a
vital role in the Revolution. That
legacy was honored as Minuteman
companies from across the region
gathered at Willson Park
to reenact one of colonial America’s boldest acts of defiance.
The Pole Capping ceremony included a
march, musket volleys, and period music.
The main event featured a Bedford
Minuteman climbing a tall wooden
pole to place a red knitted cap on top—a
reenactment of a colonial protest that
symbolized resistance to British rule.
This act, dating back to 1765, was
inspired by the Sons of Liberty, who
erected liberty poles and climbed trees
marking them with caps across the
colonies to rally patriots.
Two Bedford residents who have
participated in this event for many
years are James F. Comley, a
third-generation resident, and his
son-in-law, Clifford Washer.
Washer served with the Bedford Minutemen
for over 20 years and portrayed the
pole-climbing patriot for nearly a
decade. The reenactment takes place in
Wilson Park near their homes in
Bedford’s Historic District.
From now through 2026, Massachusetts 250
will highlight the state’s critical role
in the Revolution and celebrate untold
stories of courage and innovation from
the past 250 years. With Bedford leading
the way,
the Commonwealth has set the tone
for a powerful and patriotic commemoration.
For more
information, see:
https://massachusetts250.org/ |