Grandmother's Story of Bunker Hill Battle as She Saw it from the Belfry By: Oliver Wendell Holmes (1809-1894)
Oliver Wendell Holmes presents a captivating and unique perspective on the historic Bunker Hill Battle in his book, "Grandmother's Story of Bunker Hill Battle as She Saw it from the Belfry." Through the eyes of his grandmother, Holmes revisits a crucial moment in American history, offering readers a personal, intimate account intertwined with palpable emotions. With eloquence and vivid descriptions, Holmes masterfully paints a picture of the battle's unfolding events. Instead of focusing solely on the tactical aspects, he delves into the human experience that often remains hidden in historical narratives. By incorporating his grandmother's perspective, Holmes humanizes the protagonists, making them relatable and showcasing their tremendous courage. One of the most striking aspects of the book is the detailed portrayal of the chaotic and treacherous environment of the battleground. Holmes skillfully describes the dense smoke, deafening noise, and the constant threat of death, transporting readers right into the heart of the battle. This immersive depiction ensures that the intensity and significance of the fight are not lost, even after centuries have passed. Furthermore, Holmes intertwines the personal stories of individuals who fought during the battle, adding depth and resonance to their sacrifices. Through his grandmother's eyes, we witness the turmoil, heartache, and resilience of the people involved. By highlighting their bravery and determination, Holmes emphasizes the profound impact that this conflict had on both individuals and their wider community. The narrative structure of the book is also commendable, seamlessly blending historical facts with his grandmother's unique vantage point. Holmes manages to strike a balance, delivering accurate accounts of the battle while imbuing them with emotionally charged anecdotes. This dual approach adds a layer of authenticity to the story, allowing readers to connect with the past on an emotional level. However, it is crucial to mention that the book may not appeal to every reader. Those seeking an in-depth analysis of Bunker Hill Battle's strategic aspects might find Holmes' work less comprehensive. This book primarily focuses on the human experience, making it more suitable for those interested in the personal narratives and the social impact of historical events. In conclusion, "Grandmother's Story of Bunker Hill Battle as She Saw it from the Belfry" is a captivating and thought-provoking read that offers a fresh perspective on a pivotal moment in American history. Oliver Wendell Holmes adeptly combines historical accuracy and personal anecdotes, creating a gripping narrative that transports readers back in time. This book stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the importance of recognizing the human side of historical events. First Page: Grandmother's Story of Bunker Hill Battle as She Saw it from the Belfry by Oliver Wendell Holmes With Illustrations by Howard Pyle Boston and New York Houghton Mifflin Company The Riverside Press Cambridge MCMXXV COPYRIGHT, 1875, BY JAMES R. OSGOOD & CO. COPYRIGHT, 1903, BY HOUGHTON, MIFFLIN & CO. COPYRIGHT, 1917, BY OLIVER WENDELL HOLMES ALL RIGHTS RESERVED The Riverside Press CAMBRIDGE · MASSACHUSETTS PRINTED IN THE U.S.A. [Illustration] GRANDMOTHER'S STORY of BUNKER HILL BATTLE 'T is like stirring living embers when, at eighty, one remembers All the achings and the quakings of "the times that tried men's souls;" When I talk of Whig and Tory , when I tell the Rebel story, To you the words are ashes, but to me they're burning coals. I had heard the muskets' rattle of the April running battle; Lord Percy's hunted soldiers, I can see their red coats still; But a deadly chill comes o'er me, as the day looms up before me, When a thousand men lay bleeding on the slopes of Bunker's Hill. [Illustration] [Illustration] 'T was a peaceful summer's morning, when the first thing gave us warning Was the booming of the cannon from the river and the shore: "Child," says grandma, "what's the matter, what is all this noise and clatter? Have those scalping Indian devils come to murder us once more?" Poor old soul! my sides were shaking in the midst of all my quaking, To hear her talk of Indians when the guns began to roar: She had seen the burning village, and the slaughter and the pillage, When the Mohawks killed her father with their bullets through his door... Continue reading book >>

Grandmother's Story of Bunker Hill Battle as She Saw it from the Belfry By: Oliver Wendell Holmes (1809-1894)

Oliver Wendell Holmes presents a captivating and unique perspective on the historic Bunker Hill Battle in his book, "Grandmother's Story of Bunker Hill Battle as She Saw it from the Belfry." Through the eyes of his grandmother, Holmes revisits a crucial moment in American history, offering readers a personal, intimate account intertwined with palpable emotions.

With eloquence and vivid descriptions, Holmes masterfully paints a picture of the battle's unfolding events. Instead of focusing solely on the tactical aspects, he delves into the human experience that often remains hidden in historical narratives. By incorporating his grandmother's perspective, Holmes humanizes the protagonists, making them relatable and showcasing their tremendous courage.

One of the most striking aspects of the book is the detailed portrayal of the chaotic and treacherous environment of the battleground. Holmes skillfully describes the dense smoke, deafening noise, and the constant threat of death, transporting readers right into the heart of the battle. This immersive depiction ensures that the intensity and significance of the fight are not lost, even after centuries have passed.

Furthermore, Holmes intertwines the personal stories of individuals who fought during the battle, adding depth and resonance to their sacrifices. Through his grandmother's eyes, we witness the turmoil, heartache, and resilience of the people involved. By highlighting their bravery and determination, Holmes emphasizes the profound impact that this conflict had on both individuals and their wider community.

The narrative structure of the book is also commendable, seamlessly blending historical facts with his grandmother's unique vantage point. Holmes manages to strike a balance, delivering accurate accounts of the battle while imbuing them with emotionally charged anecdotes. This dual approach adds a layer of authenticity to the story, allowing readers to connect with the past on an emotional level.

However, it is crucial to mention that the book may not appeal to every reader. Those seeking an in-depth analysis of Bunker Hill Battle's strategic aspects might find Holmes' work less comprehensive. This book primarily focuses on the human experience, making it more suitable for those interested in the personal narratives and the social impact of historical events.

In conclusion, "Grandmother's Story of Bunker Hill Battle as She Saw it from the Belfry" is a captivating and thought-provoking read that offers a fresh perspective on a pivotal moment in American history. Oliver Wendell Holmes adeptly combines historical accuracy and personal anecdotes, creating a gripping narrative that transports readers back in time. This book stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the importance of recognizing the human side of historical events.

First Page:

Grandmother's Story

Bunker Hill Battle

as She Saw it from the Belfry

Oliver Wendell Holmes

With Illustrations by

Howard Pyle

Boston and New York Houghton Mifflin Company The Riverside Press Cambridge MCMXXV

COPYRIGHT, 1875, BY JAMES R. OSGOOD & CO. COPYRIGHT, 1903, BY HOUGHTON, MIFFLIN & CO. COPYRIGHT, 1917, BY OLIVER WENDELL HOLMES

The Riverside Press

CAMBRIDGE · MASSACHUSETTS PRINTED IN THE U.S.A.

[Illustration]

GRANDMOTHER'S STORY

BUNKER HILL

BATTLE

'T is like stirring living embers when, at eighty, one remembers All the achings and the quakings of "the times that tried men's souls;" When I talk of Whig and Tory , when I tell the Rebel story, To you the words are ashes, but to me they're burning coals.

I had heard the muskets' rattle of the April running battle; Lord Percy's hunted soldiers, I can see their red coats still; But a deadly chill comes o'er me, as the day looms up before me, When a thousand men lay bleeding on the slopes of Bunker's Hill.

[Illustration]

'T was a peaceful summer's morning, when the first thing gave us warning Was the booming of the cannon from the river and the shore: "Child," says grandma, "what's the matter, what is all this noise and clatter? Have those scalping Indian devils come to murder us once more?"

Poor old soul! my sides were shaking in the midst of all my quaking, To hear her talk of Indians when the guns began to roar: She had seen the burning village, and the slaughter and the pillage, When the Mohawks killed her father with their bullets through his door... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Literature
Poetry

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