Malden's Enduring Legacy in America's Founding                         For the first time, the storied “Malden Town Instructions” have been translated into Malden’s most widely used languages.  Thanks to a 2025-2026 Malden Community Connections grant to the Malden Historical Society from the City of Malden, the Historical Society has facilitated the translation of this important historical document into Arabic, Chinese (simplified), Haitian Creole, Portuguese, Spanish, and Vietnamese.

In May 1776, as the movement toward American independence gathered momentum, the Massachusetts House of Representatives (then serving as the Provincial Congress) called upon every town in the colony to convene a Town Meeting and instruct its representatives on a question that would shape the future of a nation: Should Massachusetts support independence from Great Britain?

Throughout May and June, communities across the Commonwealth responded. Nearly all endorsed independence. On July 3, 1776—unaware that the Continental Congress in Philadelphia had approved the Declaration of Independence the previous day—the Massachusetts House voted in favor of independence.

Among the most compelling responses was the Malden Town Instructions, adopted unanimously at a Town Meeting on May 27, 1776. Widely regarded as one of Malden's most significant Revolutionary contributions, this eloquent declaration is believed to have been authored by the Rev. Dr. Peter Thacher, minister of the First Parish of Malden and an unwavering advocate for American independence. Today, the document stands as a powerful testament to the courage, conviction, and patriotism of Malden's citizens, who knowingly risked charges of treason in support of liberty and self-government.

Commemorating the 250th Anniversary of American Independence

As the nation commemorates the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution and the birth of the United States, Malden proudly celebrates its important role in the struggle for independence. During the spring of 2026, the City hosted a series of commemorative events highlighting the Malden Town Instructions and the community's Revolutionary heritage, including the dedication of a new bell sculpture in Bell Rock Memorial Park on May 27—the 250th anniversary of the adoption of the Instructions.

Also known as the Malden Declaration, the Malden Town Instructions continue to inspire new generations with their bold affirmation of liberty and representative government. Through the publication and translation of this remarkable document, the Malden Historical Society hopes to make its message more accessible, encouraging residents and visitors alike to gain a deeper appreciation of Malden's pivotal role in the American Revolution and the enduring ideals celebrated during the nation's Semiquincentennial.

About the Malden Historical Society

Founded on March 8, 1886, and incorporated on February 7, 1887, the Malden Historical Society is a nonprofit, all-volunteer organization dedicated to preserving, promoting, and sharing the rich history of the City of Malden. Through exhibits, educational programs, publications, research, and the stewardship of its collections, the Society works to ensure that Malden's remarkable heritage is preserved for future generations.

The Society welcomes new members, volunteers, and anyone with an interest in local history. Whether you wish to assist with collections and exhibits, attend programs, or simply learn more about Malden's past, we invite you to become part of our mission.

To learn more, visit www.maldenhistoricalsociety.org or call 617-863-6038.