The Story of the Oldest Surviving Veteran of the Battle of Lexington

August 12, 2025

Harrington House postcard

The Battle of Lexington saw many local colonists make the brave decision to protect their homes and fight for their freedom from British rule. One of those colonists was Jonathan Harrington, also known as the oldest survivor from the famous battle.

Who is Jonathan Harrington?

Jonathan Harrington was born to parents Jonathan and Abigail Harrington on July 8, 1758. When he became a teenager, Jonathan joined Captain Parker’s militia company, learning to play the fife and performing military music, which helped with communication and military calls, and kept the soldiers in time with marching.  

His Role in the Battle of Lexington

During the Battle of Lexington, Jonathan stood with the colonial militia. According to his family history book, Harrington had a vivid memory of the morning of April 19, 1775. He recalls being woken up early in the morning with a cry from his mother, and traveling to the Lexington Battle Green, where the Patriots were gathering, and witnessing the first shots of the Battle.

Jonathan had an uncle of the same name who was mortally wounded during the battle, crawled back to his home, and died in his wife’s arms on his doorstep. 

After the Battle of Lexington, Jonathan was still an active participant in the Revolutionary War and America’s independence.

What is Jonathan Harrington’s Legacy Today? 

Jonathan Harrington married Sally Banks in 1782 and worked as a chairmaker and furniture repairman in Lexington. Living until 1854, he is known as the last surviving member of Captain Parker’s militia company. You can visit his grave at the Old Burying Ground, open from dawn until dusk year-round at 1965 Massachusetts Avenue.

For more information on the Battle of Lexington, please read our blog “Tour the Battles of Lexington and Concord.”