Bunker Hill

a low hill 110 feet high in Charlestown, Massachusetts. It is memorable, in connection with Breed's Hill, as the site of the battle of Bunker Hill, June 17, 1775. The Americans under General Prescott fortified the height in a hasty manner and were driven out by the British, but only after a gallant resistance and when their powder failed. The British lost 226 men killed and 828 wounded. The Americans, being behind breastworks except during the retreat, lost 145 killed and 304 wounded. Bunker Hill monument stands on Breed's Hill, as near as may be where Dr. Warren fell. It is a massive granite shaft 31 feet square at the base, 15 feet square at the top, and 220 feet high. Lafayette laid the corner stone, June 17, 1825. Webster delivered the dedicatory oration, June 17, 1843. The monument may be ascended by an interior stairway. The summit conmands a magnificent view of Boston and the harbor.