The Boca Raton Historical Society (BRHS) is where the city’s rich past is preserved and brought to life. From Boca Raton’s agricultural roots and Addison Mizner’s lasting architectural influence to the Boca Raton Army Air Field’s role in World War II and IBM’s transformation of the area into a hub for technology and innovation, BRHS’s archives, artifacts, personal stories and photographs offer a comprehensive journey through local history.
For those intrigued by quirky facts and historical insights from our hometown, BRHS’s “Town Hall Talks” lecture series offers a unique opportunity to connect with the past. Held inside Boca Raton’s original town hall, the series returns this season with a broader lens, tied to the upcoming celebration of America’s 250th birthday in 2026.
On Sept. 10, the lecture titled “The Redcoats Are Coming: The British Soldiers During The American Revolution” will explore the role and experiences of the British Redcoats — so named for their iconic red uniforms — during the Revolutionary War. Led by guest speaker Robert Feeney, the talk will delve into the structure, training and equipment of His Majesty’s army, highlighting the soldiers’ strict discipline, battlefield experience and distinct military culture. It will also examine the Redcoats’ standard-issue gear, including the Brown Bess musket and daily rations.
Through engaging historical analysis and tangible artifacts, this illuminating Town Hall Talk offers a glimpse into the challenges British troops faced on American soil. It’s a powerful reminder of the complexities of our nation’s beginnings, and just one of the many ways BRHS continues to connect Boca Raton to the larger narrative of American history — one story, one lecture and one remarkable chapter at a time.
The Boca Raton Observer is the event’s exclusive media sponsor.
For more information, visit bocahistory.org.