Why is Bunker Hill Called Breeds Hill?

Introduction

The history of the American Revolution often involves a certain amount of geographical confusion, one of the most notable being the battle that bears two names: Bunker Hill and Breeds Hill. This article aims to clarify the origins of this confusion and why the battle is now more commonly referred to as the Battle of Bunker Hill despite the conflict taking place on Breeds Hill.

Geographical Context

The Battle of Bunker Hill, also referred to as the Battle of Breeds Hill, took place on June 17, 1775, during the early stages of the American Revolutionary War. The battle occurred on an area of land along Boston's coastline, known for its low hills and hillsides, including Bunker Hill and Breeds Hill, which are situated close to each other.

The British and American armies were positioned on these hills for strategic reasons. The British made their push out of Boston, planning to break through the militia lines in the northern parts of the city. The Americans, anticipating the British move, were instructed to fortify Bunker Hill, a larger hill overlooking Boston. However, due to a miscommunication, the American troops ended up fortifying Breeds Hill, a smaller and more exposed hill closer to the coast.

The Misunderstanding

At the time of the battle, the maps in use were confusing at best. A British map mistakenly swapped the names of the two hills, labeling Bunker Hill as the location where Breeds Hill should have been named and vice versa. This led to further confusion among the troops, setting the stage for the conflict. As the battle raged on, the location became a mix of truth and legend, with Breeds Hill becoming the site where the majority of the intense fighting took place.

Over time, as the battle's significance grew, the name 'Bunker Hill' became the moniker most commonly associated with the skirmish. Despite the fact that Breeds Hill was the primary battleground, the objective was to hold Bunker Hill, leading to the battle's official name.

The Hills: Breeds and Bunker

Bunker Hill and Breeds Hill are two distinct but nearby hills in Charlestown, Massachusetts. Bunker Hill, taller and steeper, is around 600 yards from Breeds Hill. However, Charlestown's narrow one-way streets often confuse visitors, leading to the erroneous belief that Bunker Hill is associated with Breeds Hill.

Bunker Hill, at 153 feet above sea level, is part of the Charlestown Navy Yard, and its proximity to the Bunker Hill Monument makes it a popular tourist destination. On the other hand, Breeds Hill, at 55 feet above sea level, is part of the Battle Green in Charlestown. Both hills serve as reminders of the events that took place during the American Revolution.

Conclusion

In summary, the Battle of Bunker Hill is officially known as such due to the objective of the American forces, which was to fortify and hold Bunker Hill. However, the majority of the intense fighting took place on Breeds Hill, leading to the battle's alternate name. Despite this historical discrepancy, both hills play a crucial role in commemorating this pivotal moment in American history.

Understanding this geographical and historical context provides insight into the complexities of early American warfare and the ongoing confusion surrounding the names and locations involved in this significant event.

Keywords: Bunker Hill, Breeds Hill, Battle of Bunker Hill