Introduction to the Washington Elm

This is what the Washignton Elm looks like now:

The stone marker below this otherwise unremarkable tree along Garden street in the Cambridge Common reads "UNDER THIS TREE WASHINGTON FIRST TOOK COMMAND OF THE AMERICAN FORCES JULY 3, 1775".

Does the image below, published in 1876 by Currier and Ives, show what the common looked like on July 3, 1775?

Professional historians, as well as enthusiasts for General Washington agree that his taking command of the American army marked a major moment in the Revolution. But why? Did people at the time recognize the importance of the day? Did his brilliant stewardship radically change the army? Was he already becoming the father of his country when he rode into Cambridge in July, 1775? Why else has the moment been so celebrated in Cambridge and national history?

Explore this site to learn more about General Washington and the tree in Cambridge that commemorates him. Begin by looking at sources created in 1775 by General Washington, political leaders, and ordinary soldiers. Then browse later interpretations by nineteenth and twentieth century observers and authors of the day, the man and the tree. Finally, consider some scholarly comments on the General's role in shaping the army and the Revolution.