Lucius R. Paige, History of Cambridge, Massachusetts, 1630-1877, with a genealogical register

[419] fled to Boston, he became the commander of the company, with Samuel Thatcher¹ for Lieutenant, and John Gardner² as Ensign. The Provincial Congress, Oct. 26, 1774, ‘recommended to the several companies of militia in this province, who have not already chosen and appointed officers, that they meet forthwith and elect officers to command their respective companies; and that the officers so chosen assemble as soon as may be .... and proceed to elect field officers to command the respective regiments.’³ In accordance with this recommendation, Captain Gardner having been reelected or retained in office, was elected Colonel, Nov. 29, 1774, ‘at a meeting of the officers of the several companies of militia in the first Regiment in the County of Middlesex.’⁴ Soon after the Battle of Lexington, in which he was actively engaged,⁵ he enlisted a Regiment for the Continental Army, of which he was commissioned as Colonel, June 2, 1775.⁶ A fortnight later, he secured immortal fame. He led his regiment to Bunker Hill, ‘and was just descending into the engagement, when a musket ball entered his groin, which proved mortal. He gave his last solemn injunction to his men, to conquer or die; and a detachment were just carrying him off the ground when he was met by his son, 2d Lieut. of Capt. Trevett, marching on, a mere youth of nineteen, and the interview which ensued between them was melancholy and heart-rending, though at the same time heroic. The affectionate son in agony at the desperate situation of his father was anxiously desirous to assist him off the field, but was prohibited from doing this by his father, who, notwithstanding he was conscious that his wound was mortal, yet encouraged his son to disregard it, reminding him that he was engaged in a glorious cause, and, whatever were the consequences, must march on and do his duty.’⁷ Colonel Gardner, ‘a few days after the battle, being asked if he was well enough to see his son, “ Yes,” answered the hero, “ if he has done his duty!” He had the satisfaction to see him and learn that he bravely distinguished himself.’⁸ He suffered more than a fortnight, but