Marlborough Celebrates William Dawes,

Tradesman, Messenger, Officer

"One of the messengers who rode through the night on April 18, 1775"

WILLIAM DAWES
War & Affiliation: Revolutionary War / American
Date of Birth -  April 6, 1745

Date of Death - February 25, 1799 in Marlborough, MA

One of the messengers who rode in the night of April 18, 1775, to warn the Massachusetts countryside that a British expedition was heading for Concord, William Dawes has often been overshadowed in historical memory by Paul Revere.


"Dawes" may not have rhymed as nicely as "Revere" when it came to writing classic American poetry, but that does not detract from the courage and commitment William Dawes showed as he rode through the night, warning the countryside and patriot leaders that the British had left Boston and were heading for Concord.


  • Dawes was a member of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company of Massachusetts and a tanner.


  • Dawes joined the Siege of Boston and fought at the Battle of Bunker Hill. He also served as a quartermaster for the Massachusetts Continental Army, responsible for supplying troops.


  • As one of the messengers who rode in the night of April 18,1775, to warn the Massachusetts countryside that a British expedition was heading for Concord, William Dawes has often been overshadowed in historical memory by Paul Revere.


  • After the war, Dawes moved to Marlborough and opened a grocery store. His store was located on lower Main St at the site that later became the telephone exchange building. Another source places it at Colleary Square.


  • Presidential Visit: In 1789, President George Washington came to Marlborough to meet with Dawes, recognizing him as an important patriot.


  • Death in Marlborough: Dawes died in Marlborough in 1799 at the age of 53. He was originally buried in Boston, but his remains were later moved to the May family tomb in Forest Hills Cemetery in Jamaica Plain.



'Tis all very well for the children to hear
Of the midnight ride of Paul Revere;
But why should my name be quite forgot,
Who rode as boldly and well, God wot?
Why should I ask? The reason is clear --
My name was Dawes and his Revere.


Excerpt from "The Midnight Ride of William Dawes"

by Helen F. Moore, in 1896



William Dawes

William Dawes, oil painting by John Johnston



Help support the Marlborough Historical Society by purchasing one or more of the 250 Revolution Anniversary Commemorative Coins, featuring William Dawes of Marlborough, Massachusetts, pictured below.  Scroll down for ordering instructions.




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Marlborough Historical Society

PO Box 513

Marlborough, MA. 01752