‘The British are coming’: Residents and local officals celebrate Paul Revere’s ride

IDAHO FALLS — A small group of locals gathered in the cold outside the Bonneville County Courthouse Friday night to light two candles in remembrance of Paul Revere’s daring ride 250 years ago.

The Two Lights for Tomorrow Day is part of a nationwide initiative to kick off the celebration of America’s upcoming 250 anniversary.

RELATED | Bonneville County to celebrate ‘Paul Revere’s Ride’

Bonneville County Commissioner Karl Casperson told the gathered crowd the goal for the night’s events, along with reading a proclamation and resolution, is to “restore some patriotism and community in our nation.”

“All the things that are going on and the fighting and the hatred that seems to be spewing. So we’re hoping that this will kick off a more positive note as we come into the celebration of the 250 years of the United States of America,” Casperson said.

County officials read a resolution, and city officials read a proclamation, both of which encouraged residents to be inspired by the actions of American heroes Revere, William Dawes and Samuel Prescott. They also encouraged residents to participate in community service.

“It is hoped that these activities and others in the between now and July 2026 … will resonate throughout our community as we build momentum toward a meaningful celebration of America’s 250th birthday,” Idaho Falls Mayor Rebecca Casper said.

Doug Toomer, founder of Stand Up for Idaho, dressed as a member of the Founding Fathers and read an abridged portion of Wadsworth Longfellow’s poem, “Paul Revere’s Ride.”

At the end of the poem, Jud Elkington, Bonneville County weed superintendent, rode around the county courthouse on horseback, hollering, “The British are coming!.”

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