Dear Paul Revere
Nate in the Heights looks at the route Paul Revere would take to Medford today, how many Dunkies he would pass along the way, and whether he would take the illegal left turn from Main to High Street, much to the chagrin of all southbound traffic from Forest and Salem streets.
Updating our greatest fleeting guest on the most important details of modern life in Medford
By Nate Rubright
Dear Paul Revere,
We did it! For the 251st time on Monday, we celebrated your ride across Medford. I was there with my kids to see your reenactor give it a ton of gusto as he and his horse made the illegal left turn from Main to High Street, much to the chagrin of all southbound traffic from Forest and Salem streets. The kids got to wave flags, hear the poem that made you famous, and see various levels of commitment to colonial cosplay. It was great, but a bit cold.
This year, a viral post on the internet (I’ll explain later) actually counted the number of Dunkin’ Donuts you would have passed if you made the trek in 2026. Unfortunately, all seven would’ve been closed by the start of your 10 p.m. ride. But, this did spark my curiosity about what the route would look like if you made the journey to Medford today.
The most horse-like and street-legal form of modern transportation we have is a bike, and lucky for you, I’ve actually ridden from the North End to Medford many a spring night. I think the most faithful reenactment of the route would be to take the surface streets from Old North Church to the Washington Street Bridge, cross into Charlestown, go through Paul Revere Park (that's right!) and then hit the Somerville Community Path all the way to Magoun Square. There, you would pick up Medford Street, which becomes Main Street when you cross into Medford (can’t explain that one). Take that all the way to the aforementioned illegal left turn in Medford Square onto High Street and you are at your first stop.
As far as after-hours landmarks along that route, there are a couple of ‘taverns’ that would be your best option for late night refreshment. The most convenient, and perhaps authentic to your time, is Magoun’s Saloon. After that, you could hit Deep Cuts right across the Cradock Bridge and conveniently catch some great local music and pinball.
I can authoritatively say that both places would be sympathetic to the revolution, so you would be in safe hands lest anyone recognize you. It is funny to think that even though modern fashion is a lot different from your time, no one would think twice about serving a man in colonial garb, especially during this time of year. Also, if you are trying to stay focused and hydrated, I know for a fact they will brew you a strong cup of tea in a large glass at both locations upon request (your correspondent has a penchant for late night caffeine).
On your way out of Medford, you’ll pass the Paul Revere Restaurant, which will be closed but will be an excellent option the next morning. You’ll have to ask someone else what’s going on past West Medford Square and into Arlington, my knowledge (and interest) of your route pretty much ends at the Mystic Lakes.
Because of paved roads, lighter late-night traffic, bridges, and a large stretch of unbroken path, I anticipate you could get from Old North Church to the ICCM in about 30 minutes, depending on the stops you make and how your heart handles the 500 feet of elevation gain. I see you lived to 83, so at 40 you were probably a beast.
Anyway, 251 years later I can assure you modern Medford is still grateful for your ride.
See you next year,
Nate in the Heights
Nate Rubright is a Medford resident.
