249 years ago Needham residents helped repel British attacks on Lexington and Concord. The Needham Militia’s 12.6 mile march to join the battle started at the Townsend Green (Nehoiden Street and Central Ave) and ended in Arlington by the Jason Russell House (which still stands). The fighting in Arlington was some of the heaviest of the day, and five of Needham’s own gave their lives in the first battle to create our nation.

For those up to the challenge, lace up your sneakers and join your fellow residents on Saturday, April 20, as we walk the 12.6 mile route from Needham to Arlington. At our destination, we will tour the Jason Russell House with its many musket ball strikes, commemorate the sacrifice our fellow townspeople made, and enjoy a packed lunch.

Participants must register online with Needham History Center & Museum. Participants must sign a release form, and the cost is $30.00. The walk goes through Needham, Wellesley, Newton, Watertown, Belmont, and Arlington. Assuming a roughly 25 minute/mile pace, walkers should arrive at the Jason Russell House around 2:15pm. Participants will need to arrange their own transportation home. Proceeds will help support the Needham History Center & Museum. You can register today at needhamhistory.org/events-calendar/needham2arlington/.

PLEASE NOTE:  The Needham2Arlington Walk is a community event.  In keeping with the nonprofit status of the Needham History Center and the Arlington Historical Society, and at the request of the Police Departments of the towns we will be crossing, there will be no political or partisan activity at this event.  This includes wearing uniforms (historic or current), carrying signs or banners, or any other form of representation.  Participants who do not abide by this restriction will not be allowed to participate and their fee will be refunded.