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New App Takes Massachusetts’ Revolutionary History Mobile as America Marks 250th Anniversary

Massachusetts becomes the third state in the Trust’s growing Liberty Trail app collection, aimed at enhancing heritage tourism for the anniversary of the American Revolution

(Lexington, Mass.) — The latest mobile app from the American Battlefield Trust is ready to provide visitors with a “pocket historian” to explore the first days of the American Revolution. The Liberty Trail Massachusetts, now available for free download through the App Store and Google Play, guides users through the Lexington and Concord battlefields and beyond. Six different tour options explore the game-changing events that transpired on April 19, 1775, through curated routes — just in time for the 250th anniversary of the shot heard ‘round the world.  

“The Trust is constantly on the cutting edge of utilizing technology to enhance place-based education, while remaining firmly rooted in history,” said Trust president David Duncan. “The Liberty Trail Massachusetts will certainly transform the way people learn about Lexington and Concord, and I can’t wait for people to try the app for themselves on their next visit to these sacred battlefields.” 

Four screenshots of The Liberty Trail Massachusetts app

An essential tool for any history lover exploring the Bay State, hallmarks of the app include engaging narrative text, modern photography, 360-degree virtual tours, historical illustrations, original artwork, battle maps and videos with experts. While some of the tour routes offered are designed for driving, there are options for walking tours as well, tailoring the experience to each user’s preferences. Future additions to the app will include more sites, such as Bunker Hill and the Knox Trail, expanding its in-depth and engaging historical offerings. 

In tandem with the app launch, the Trust also has expanded The Liberty Trail website to highlight Massachusetts’ pivotal role in the American Revolution. New content includes detailed guides to historic sites across the state, biographies of notable figures, educational videos and other resources designed to enrich the experience for travelers and lifelong learners alike.  

The Liberty Trail program is an unforgettable journey through place and time, connecting locations central to the story of the American Revolution. It began in South Carolina, before expanding to New Jersey late last year. As the nation’s Semiquincentennial anniversary dawns, additional states will join the network, bearing testimony to more outstanding partnerships and collaborations in the history community.  

Young colonial militiamen exchange fire against British redcoats at sunrise in this painting.
“Stand Your Guard,” a National Guard Heritage Painting by Don Troiani depicting the Battle of Lexington and Concord. Courtesy the National Guard Bureau

The launch of The Liberty Trail Massachusetts is one of several ways the Trust is commemorating the battle anniversary. Next week, the Trust will participate in an event with the National Park Service at the Colonel James Barrett House, celebrating the preservation of the farthest advance of the British Army during the battle, as it becomes part of Minute Man National Historical Park. Later that week, on the eve of the anniversary, the Trust will debut its latest innovative video featuring a virtual reality experience of the Battles of Lexington and Concord. 

More than 30 apps for battlefield trails and sites have now been produced by the Trust, including The Liberty Trail S.C. and The Liberty Trail N.J., the Gettysburg AR Experience and the Medal of Honor Valor Trail. Learn about the variety of apps available here 

From a grassroots organization started by historians nearly 40 years ago, the American Battlefield Trust has grown into one of the most successful historic land preservation and education organizations in the United States. The Trust has protected nearly 60,000 acres associated with the Revolutionary War, War of 1812 and Civil War, representing 160 sites in 25 states from Massachusetts to New Mexico. Its 350,000 members and supporters believe in the power of place and the continued relevance of our shared history to modern American society. Learn more at www.battlefields.org. 

 

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