Malden Historical Society

05/27/2026

Here is an excerpt from WBUR Boston Morning Newsletter May 27, 2026 mentioning Linda Thorsen, our President.

Boston's Morning Newsletter
Malden celebrates its own precursor to the Declaration of Independence — 250 years ago Wednesday

Meagan McGinnes-Bessey & Nik DeCosta-Klipa

May 27, 2026

Editor's Note: This is an excerpt from WBUR's daily morning newsletter, WBUR Today. If you like what you read and want it in your inbox, sign up here.

Before you start looking ahead to The WBUR Festival this weekend (do you have your tickets yet?!), let's look back. Two hundred fifty years back, to be exact.

Malden 250? You may not think "Malden" when you think about the "birthplace of independence." But the city has made some early contributions to the country's Revolutionary history and is celebrating them today. In May of 1776, the Massachusetts House of Representatives asked its towns to weigh in on whether to declare independence from Great Britain. And on May 27 — 250 years ago today — Malden became the first to respond. The community's residents were also unanimous in their support and particularly eloquent, Malden Historical Society President Linda Thorson told WBUR's Amy Sokolow.

Rebels with a cause: City officials now describe the so-called "Malden Town Instructions" were a precursor to the Declaration of Independence (which wasn't written until July 1776). The "instructions" read, in part, "if they should declare America to be a free and independent republic, your constituents will support and defend the measure, to the last drop of their blood, and the last farthing of their treasure." Thorson said the language resonated because it showed Malden was "all in." "They could have been hung for treason if this had not gone the right way," she said. "But they were really willing to put everything on the line."
How they're celebrating: Malden is unveiling a statue today at Bell Rock Park, emblazoned with the historic fiery text. The restored bell is a tribute to the one that was used for a century to summon town residents. A local historian also plans to perform the city's annual reading of the instructions.

05/23/2026

📍 New Location This Year — Bell Rock Memorial Park!

Join Mayor Gary Christenson and the community as Malden commemorates the 250th Anniversary of the Malden Instructions and the city’s early support for American independence in 1776.

The annual reading will take place on Wednesday, May 27 at 5:30 PM at Bell Rock Memorial Park, the historic site where a newly restored memorial bell will be unveiled during the ceremony.

This special evening will feature:
🇺🇸 Performances by the William Diamond Junior Fife and Drum Corps
🇺🇸 A historical reading by local historian Tom Coots
🇺🇸 The unveiling of the restored memorial bell at Bell Rock Park

Adopted on May 27, 1776, the Malden Instructions are widely recognized as a precursor to the Declaration of Independence and stand as a proud symbol of Malden’s role in America’s fight for liberty.

Residents and visitors are invited to attend this meaningful community celebration honoring Malden’s remarkable Revolutionary history.

05/20/2026

Curious about the true story behind the Malden Instructions — also known as the Malden Declaration?

What exactly were they? Who was Malden addressing, and why? What was unfolding in the spring of 1776 as America moved toward independence?

Join Linda Thorsen, President of the Malden Historical Society, on May 21 at 7:00 PM as she explores the fascinating history of the Malden Instructions and separates fact from the myths that have developed over time.

This special presentation will be held in the Maccario Room at the Malden Public Library, 36 Salem Street, and is sponsored by the Malden Historical Society as part of Malden’s Revolution 250 commemoration honoring the events leading to American Independence.

All are welcome to attend — don’t miss this opportunity to discover an important chapter of Malden’s revolutionary past!

05/16/2026

Here is a couple of shots by Joseph Turner taken at the Muster Day at Bell Rock Park. Joe is an excellent & creative photographer & friend of the Historical Society. If you need someone for your event he can be reached at Joseph Turner, FAA 107 Certified Aerial Photographer
Joseph Turner Photography
Studio: 125 Main Street, Suite A, Stoneham, MA 02180
Phone: 781-439-7334
Email: [email protected]
Portrait website: http://www.JoeTurnerPhotog.Smugmug.com
Aerial website: http://JosephTurner.Smugmug.com

05/15/2026

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DYXa6zRRrLC/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

05/10/2026

Dear Friends,

Step back in time and experience life in Revolutionary America at **Revolutionary War Muster Day** at Bell Rock Memorial Park in Malden on **Saturday, May 16, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM**.

Join the Stow Minutemen and fellow reenactors as they bring the eighteenth century to life with authentic demonstrations, military drills, music, and camp activities. This free public event is a wonderful opportunity for families, history enthusiasts, and community members of all ages to experience the sights and sounds of the Revolutionary era.

# # # Event Highlights

* **Fife and Drum Music** — 11:00 AM & 1:00 PM
* **Militia Drills** — 11:30 AM & 1:30 PM
* Living history demonstrations throughout the day, including:

* Candle dipping
* Cartridge rolling
* Musket ball casting
* Colonial toys and games
* Military equipment and muskets
* Revolutionary-era medical practices
* And much more

Please note: You may hear musket fire during the event — blanks only — all part of the authentic experience!

We hope you will join us for this exciting and educational day celebrating America’s Revolutionary past.

05/06/2026

🇺🇸 **The Revolution Comes to Bell Rock Park!** 🇺🇸
*Step back in time and experience life in Revolutionary America*

On **Saturday, May 16**, Bell Rock Memorial Park in Malden will come alive as a **Colonial militia encampment**—and you’re invited!

⚔️ Watch **live militia drills**
🎶 Enjoy **period music performances**
🛠️ Explore **18th-century craft demonstrations**
💬 Talk with knowledgeable reenactors and learn what life was really like during the American Revolution

Members of the **Stow Minutemen** and other reenactors will recreate the sights and sounds of a Revolutionary muster day—just as it would have been in the late 1700s.

🕚 **Schedule Highlights:**
• Music at 11:00 AM & 1:00 PM
• Militia drills at 11:30 AM & 1:30 PM
• Demonstrations throughout the day (until ~3:00 PM)

📍 **Location:** Bell Rock Memorial Park, Malden
💥 *You may hear musket fire during the event—don’t worry, it’s all part of the experience (blanks only!)*

Bring the whole family! Come for a bit or stay for the day—pack a picnic and enjoy this unique, hands-on history experience. (Only heavy rain will cancel—after all, the militia didn’t wait for perfect weather!)

🎉 **Part of Malden’s Revolution 250 Celebration**
Don’t miss this exciting way to connect with history right here in your community.

👉 Tag a friend, share the event, and join us on May 16!

05/06/2026

If you weren't able to attend the presentation on 18th Century cooking last night you missed a fun time. The speaker, Mike Smith, was very knowledgeable. If you would like to get a "taste" of his work, check out his website at

I’m Mike, the 18th Century Cook! I'm an artist, educator, and culinary historian (MS/BA) based in Greater Boston. My research focuses on New England foodways from the time of the American Revolution, and I take care to ensure all recipes, equipment, clothing, ingredients, and techniques are accura...

05/05/2026

Spring is in full bloom—and so is one of Malden’s most anticipated evenings of the year

Join the Friends of the Malden Public Library for a beautifully curated **Wine Tasting Gala** set against the elegant backdrop of the Converse Memorial Building.

✨ **Friday, May 15**
🍷 **Doors Open:** 7:00 PM
🌿 **VIP Tour:** 6:30 PM (includes exclusive access to the art galleries)
🎟️ **$50 General Admission | $75 VIP**

Enjoy an unforgettable evening featuring:
• A thoughtfully selected wine tasting experience
• Delicious food pairings
• A lively silent auction
• Special savings—purchase 6 bottles and receive 10% off
• And best of all, **10% of all wine sales directly supports the library**

Whether you're a wine enthusiast, a supporter of the arts, or simply looking for a memorable night out, this event offers the perfect blend of culture, community, and celebration.

🎟️ Tickets available online or at the library:
www.friendsofmaldenlibrary.org

Gather your friends, share the experience, and raise a glass to supporting one of Malden’s most cherished institutions.

05/05/2026

Have a great time & support an important institution in Malden.