5 Small Towns With Outsized Roles in American History

Some of the most fascinating and pivotal events in American history took place in small towns rather than big cities. From the first shots of the Revolutionary War to pivotal battles in the Civil War, these towns prove that history can — and often does — unfold in unexpected places. Here are five small towns that have played outsized roles in American history.

Astoria, Oregon

Astoria holds a special place in U.S. history as both the first permanent American settlement west of the Rockies and the oldest city in Oregon. Founded in 1811 — just six years after Lewis and Clark’s expedition in 1805 — by New York businessman John Jacob Astor, the town quickly grew into a key hub for the Pacific Northwest fur trade. It also became home to the first U.S. post office west of the Rockies, cementing its role in westward expansion. 

With a population of fewer than 10,000 people today, Astoria has retained much of its charm over the years, with historic architecture, riverfront views, and museums that highlight the city’s colorful past. Beyond its history, Astoria has a pop culture claim to fame, too: It was the filming location for the cult classic The Goonies, giving both film fans and history buffs plenty of reasons to stop by and explore.

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

With fewer than 9,000 residents, Gettysburg might seem like a quiet little town, but of course, it was the site of one of the most important battles in American history. From July 1 to July 3, 1863, fierce fighting took place all around Gettysburg — from the main roads to the surrounding fields and ridges — during the single deadliest battle of the Civil War. The Union victory became a major turning point, lifting Northern spirits despite significant casualties on both sides. A few months later, President Abraham Lincoln came to town to dedicate the Soldiers’ National Cemetery and delivered his now-famous Gettysburg Address. 

Today, Gettysburg is a must-visit for history buffs. Top sites include the Gettysburg National Military Park and its many monuments, the Gettysburg Museum & Visitor Center with artifacts and the massive Cyclorama painting of Pickett’s Charge, and the National Cemetery itself.

Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

Harpers Ferry may have a population of only about 300 people, but this small town is packed with history. Perched where the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers meet, Harpers Ferry was once a bustling transportation hub and home to a federal armory. In 1859, abolitionist John Brown led a raid on the Harpers Ferry Armory in an attempt to arm the enslaved peoples in the area and spark an uprising. Brown’s bold move shocked the nation and pushed a country rife with conflict even closer to the brink of the impending Civil War. During the war itself, the town’s strategic location made it a highly contested site, and it changed hands several times between the Union and Confederate armies. 

Today, Harpers Ferry is known for its preserved streets and historic buildings, where visitors can take a deep dive into its fascinating past, while also enjoying the beautiful natural environment and scenery of the two rivers.

Lexington, Massachusetts

Located 14 miles northwest of Boston, Lexington is home to roughly 35,000 people. The settlement was the site of the first battle of the Revolutionary War on April 19, 1775. The Battles of Lexington and Concord began when a skirmish broke out on the Lexington Green and Massachusetts Minute Men fired on a group of British soldiers, in what would later be known as “the shot heard around the world.” 

Lexington’s role as the starting point of the war earned it the nickname, “the Birthplace of American Liberty.” Today, the green where the first shots were fired is part of Minute Man National Historical Park. Several other important historic sites are also found around town, including Buckman Tavern, where colonial troops gathered in the early hours of April 19 as they prepared for the British advance; Munroe Tavern, which later served as a hospital for wounded British soldiers; and the Hancock-Clarke House, where John Hancock and Samuel Adams spent the night before the battle, and where Paul Revere rode to warn them of the approaching troops.

West Point, New York

West Point is best known for the United States Military Academy (USMA), also known simply as West Point. In 1802, President Thomas Jefferson needed a place to train military officers for the expanding army, so he founded the academy, which remains the oldest continuously occupied military post in the country. West Point also held an important strategic position during the Revolutionary War. Due to its location overlooking and controlling the Hudson River, West Point ultimately prevented the British from taking control of the waterway. 

More than two centuries later, West Point is still one of the nation’s most prestigious institutions, known for its tough academics, intense military training, and long history of shaping some of America’s top military leaders. Notable graduates include Ulysses S. Grant and Dwight D. Eisenhower, both of whom went on to serve as president after their military careers. Visitors can check out the West Point Museum and historic sites such as Fort Putnam to explore the town’s storied history.