As America commemorates and celebrates its 250th Anniversary, Ted Reinstein looks back. Way back. Even years before independence was actually achieved, events took place that would shape how the new nation would look back at its founding. Paul Revere’s ride? One of the most momentous nights in U.S. history. And, like any big night, there was a bill. And America’s first expense report. Who knew? (The first bean counters even tried to stiff Revere!)

While many New Englanders pride themselves on knowing the difference between Bunker and Breed’s Hill, few know that the bad blood over this historical inaccuracy continues—meet Jed Breed, thirteenth-generation direct descendant of the Boston farmer whose name should be in the history books, not an answer in “Trivial Pursuit.” Visit historic Copp’s Hill Burying Ground, and find the one headstone the British used for target practice—and why.

These stories and more are crafted into an entertaining talk. If you like history, enjoy learning the story behind a story, or just want a good laugh, join us. Since 1995, Ted Reinstein has been a reporter for Boston/WCVB’s celebrated “Chronicle,” the nation’s longest-running, locally-produced nightly newsmagazine. Ted is a native of Winthrop, Massachusetts, and lives with his family just west of Boston.

In 2024, I sold my collection of a few hundred vinyl record albums to Jonathan Sandler of Village Vinyl & Hi-Fi in Coolidge Corner. They were mostly jazz albums I'd bought in the 1970s and 1980s, including quite a few older albums I'd picked up in used record bins during those pre-CD years.

The covers of the album, as well as the music on them, carried a lot of sentimental value for me. But I hadn't actually owned a turntable for years, and I was glad that, in addition to providing me some extra cash, the music would find new owners/listeners, especially amid a growing appreciation for vinyl.

I also gave Jonat...