from Chronicles of Old Salem by Frances Diane Robotti  (A copy of this book is available through the Cullen Library.  Refer to the book to compile a citation.)

1775 February 26 (Sunday) - (p. 38-39) Upon orders of Governor Gage, Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Leslie markes to Salem with part of the 64th Regiment.  He demands the surrender of ammunition stored near the North Bridge, some of which belongs to Richard Derby.  Derby, Timothy Pickering, Rev. Barnard and Capt. Mason are leaders of the Salem group which refuses to give up the ammunition, or to lower the drawbridge as demanded.  In the attempt of the Britishers to seize some flat boats, a scuffle ensues  between the Salem citizens and the British soldiers.  Finally, a compromise is reached as young Thomas Barnard, minister of the North Church, mediates the issue between Leslie and the people.  As a result, the Briton counter-marches his men and in what is known as Colonel Leslie's retreat at the North Bridge.

The people now aroused to danger, meet in School Street (Washington) on March 14th.  On the 25th, the Town votes to raise two companies of minute men.  On April 18th, Gage attempts to seize ammunition stored at Concord which leads to bloodshed in the opening guns of the War of Independence.  On April 19th, Benjamin Pierce of Salem is killed in the Battle of Lexington.  Colonel Pickering and 300 soldiers march double-quick from Salem towards Lexington, but arrive as the British troops are retreating through Charlestown. There is some controversy over the failure of the Salem men to arrive in time at the scene of action.  However, as the old roads are laid out, the distance from Salem is 22 miles instead of the present shorter direct route.  On August 10th, the General Court formally absolves the Salem contingent from any blame in the neglect of duty.