Saturday, 28 February 2026
10:00 am-12:00 pm
Mount Auburn Cemetery (Story Chapel)
As we approach the 250th anniversary of the United States’ founding – and the 219th anniversary of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s birth – join us for a timely reexamination of Longfellow’s beloved 1861 poem, Paul Revere’s Ride.
This event will begin with a reading of Paul Revere’s Ride, and remarks by the staff of Longfellow House-Washington’s Headquarters National Historic Site. Kristin L. Peszka, Interpretation & Visitor Services Director at the Paul Revere House, will then address the historical ride in comparison to Longfellow’s version, and reflect on Revere’s lasting legacy.
The reading will be followed by birthday cake and, weather permitting, a visit to the Longfellow family tomb for a brief wreath laying ceremony.
10:00-11:00 AM Remarks
11:00-11:30 AM Coffee and cake reception
11:30-12:00 PM Walk to the Longfellow grave site and wreath laying
This program is presented by Mount Auburn Cemetery and Longfellow House-Washington’s Headquarters National Historic Site, and is funded through the generous support of America’s National Parks, a non-profit partner of the National Park Service.