Lawrence Light Guard Armory, arsenaal in Massachusetts, Verenigde Staten van Amerika
The Lawrence Light Guard Armory is a former military building made of granite and brick, constructed between 1900 and 1902 in Medford, Massachusetts. This three-story structure features Romanesque Revival styling with rough-faced granite blocks, battered stone walls at the base, and distinctive small towers with crenellated tops.
The Lawrence Light Guard was founded in 1851 and became the only militia company from Massachusetts to volunteer directly for Civil War service in 1861. The current building was constructed in 1900-1902 after the earlier militia facilities were destroyed by fire, and it has served different purposes since 1973.
The building is named after the Lawrence Light Guard, a citizen militia formed in 1851 that served as a symbol of community pride and civic engagement. The site functioned as a gathering place where local residents participated in patriotic activities and civic events.
The building is located on High Street and is easily recognizable from the street by its distinctive granite towers and yellow-brick front. As it is now private property used for offices and residences, visitors can only view the exterior and entryway.
The militia was called to duty on April 19, 1861, the same day as Paul Revere's famous ride, making it the only Massachusetts militia unit to volunteer directly for service. Some members were later held as prisoners in facilities like Libby Prison, where they endured harsh conditions with little shelter or adequate food.
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