State Rep. David Martin this week led the House in adopting his resolution designating April 19, 2026, as Patriots’ Day in Michigan.

“This resolution designating April 19 as Patriots’ Day commemorates the ‘shot heard round the world’ and honors the sacrifices our forefathers made to secure the nation we enjoy today,” said Martin, R-Davison. “It is important to remember that Michigan played a meaningful role in the Revolutionary War. Benton Harbor, St. Joseph, Mackinac Island, and Fort Detroit served as important supply routes during the conflict. As our nation approaches its 250th anniversary, we should recognize Michigan’s place in that history and honor the contributions made here at home.”

April 19, 2026, marks the 251st anniversary of the Battles of Lexington and Concord, when colonial militia forces confronted British troops marching on the Massachusetts towns, resulting in the “shot heard round the world” that ignited the American Revolution.

Several other states, including Maine, Connecticut, Florida, North Dakota, and Wisconsin, also observe Patriots’ Day. Traditions associated with the holiday often include historical reenactments, ceremonies honoring colonial militia, and community events celebrating the nation’s founding and the sacrifices made for American independence.

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