Travel

close Video’She’s traveling the world’: Message in a bottle contains mother’s final wishA grieving daughter placed her mom’s ashes in a bottle so the woman could finally “see” the world. Not long after, a stranger found the bottle — and the daughter's message went viral.
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Maritime experts believe they've finally pinpointed the exact resting place of Captain James Cook's legendary ship – just off the coast of a beloved New England resort town.
A report about HMS Endeavour was published by the Australian National Maritime Museum (ANMM) on June 3.
In 1778, the British intentionally sank the ship off the coast of Newport, Rhode Island, in a strategic move to block French and American attacks.
MYSTERIOUS 18TH-CENTURY WARSHIP UNEARTHED AT GROUND ZERO SITE GETS NEW HOME
While it has long been known that the 18th-century vessel lies off the coast of the Ocean State, its exact location has eluded marine historians.
But now experts are sure that a Rhode Island state archaeological site named RI 2394 is the final resting place of the ship – and they have decades of research to back it up.
Maritime experts have identified Captain James Cook's HMS Endeavour off Newport, Rhode Island, where it was intentionally sunk in 1778. (Joseph Sohm/Universal Images Group via Getty Images; Stock Montage via Getty Images)
Also known as the “Kerry” site, the shipwreck is between 39 and 43 feet underwater, the report says.
The site includes a “linear stone ballast pile, the eastern periphery of which features a line of partially exposed frame ends that are closely spaced and of substantial size,” according to the report.
OMINOUS LETTER WRITTEN BY 'PROPHETIC' TITANIC PASSENGER SELLS FOR SHOCKING SIX-FIGURE SUM AT AUCTION
“Four iron cannons are also present on the site,” the report continues. “Two are largely exposed above the seabed and lie immediately adjacent to one another on the western side of the site.”
The site also features remnants of floors, futtocks and a stanchion, which is a post that supported the ship's deck beams.
The HMS Endeavour is famous for being the first European vessel to reach Australia's eastern coast. (SSPL via Getty Images)
“By 2019, careful surface investigation of all shipwrecks located within the Limited Study Area determined RI 2394 was the most likely candidate for [the] ex-HMS Endeavour,” the report said.
The site meets 10 criteria that experts previously agreed upon.
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These include a lack of American timbers, a European elm keel, and evidence of hull repairs matching what is known about HMS Endeavour.
The ship also has scuttling holes to prove it was intentionally sunk, and overall possessed “architectural features matching those of Endeavour.”
A replica of the HMS Endeavour. The ship was sold to a private owner in 1775. (Wolter Peeters/The Sydney Morning Herald via Getty Images)
The report concluded, “RI 2394 is the largest shipwreck site within the LSA and exhibits attributes that fulfill the criteria.”
“Consequently, the preponderance of evidence supports this shipwreck site’s identification as [HMS Endeavour] … and at the same time discounts any of the other investigated shipwreck sites as that of James Cook’s renowned ship of exploration.”
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The Endeavour holds great significance in Australian history as the first European vessel to reach the country's eastern coast.
After the ship sailed the world, it was sold to a private citizen in Feb. 1775 and renamed “Lord Sandwich” before it was scuttled.
Australian researchers have been searching for the HMS Endeavour for decades, as the ship is significant in Australian history. (Hulton Archive via Getty Images)
Marine archaeologists across the world are actively discovering countless numbers of shipwrecks per year.
Just last week, officials announced that they had discovered a 16th-century shipwreck at record depth in French waters.
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Off the coast of Ireland, underwater archaeologists recently found an 18th-century vessel that is believed to be a long-lost treasure ship.
Andrea Margolis is a lifestyle writer for Fox News Digital and Fox Business. Readers can follow her on X at @andreamargs or send story tips to andrea.margolis@fox.com.

close Video’She’s traveling the world’: Message in a bottle contains mother’s final wishA grieving daughter placed her mom’s ashes in a bottle so the woman could finally “see” the world. Not long after, a stranger found the bottle — and the daughter's message went viral.
NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!
Maritime experts believe they've finally pinpointed the exact resting place of Captain James Cook's legendary ship – just off the coast of a beloved New England resort town.
A report about HMS Endeavour was published by the Australian National Maritime Museum (ANMM) on June 3.
In 1778, the British intentionally sank the ship off the coast of Newport, Rhode Island, in a strategic move to block French and American attacks.
MYSTERIOUS 18TH-CENTURY WARSHIP UNEARTHED AT GROUND ZERO SITE GETS NEW HOME
While it has long been known that the 18th-century vessel lies off the coast of the Ocean State, its exact location has eluded marine historians.
But now experts are sure that a Rhode Island state archaeological site named RI 2394 is the final resting place of the ship – and they have decades of research to back it up.
Maritime experts have identified Captain James Cook's HMS Endeavour off Newport, Rhode Island, where it was intentionally sunk in 1778. (Joseph Sohm/Universal Images Group via Getty Images; Stock Montage via Getty Images)
Also known as the “Kerry” site, the shipwreck is between 39 and 43 feet underwater, the report says.
The site includes a “linear stone ballast pile, the eastern periphery of which features a line of partially exposed frame ends that are closely spaced and of substantial size,” according to the report.
OMINOUS LETTER WRITTEN BY 'PROPHETIC' TITANIC PASSENGER SELLS FOR SHOCKING SIX-FIGURE SUM AT AUCTION
“Four iron cannons are also present on the site,” the report continues. “Two are largely exposed above the seabed and lie immediately adjacent to one another on the western side of the site.”
The site also features remnants of floors, futtocks and a stanchion, which is a post that supported the ship's deck beams.
The HMS Endeavour is famous for being the first European vessel to reach Australia's eastern coast. (SSPL via Getty Images)
“By 2019, careful surface investigation of all shipwrecks located within the Limited Study Area determined RI 2394 was the most likely candidate for [the] ex-HMS Endeavour,” the report said.
The site meets 10 criteria that experts previously agreed upon.
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These include a lack of American timbers, a European elm keel, and evidence of hull repairs matching what is known about HMS Endeavour.
The ship also has scuttling holes to prove it was intentionally sunk, and overall possessed “architectural features matching those of Endeavour.”
A replica of the HMS Endeavour. The ship was sold to a private owner in 1775. (Wolter Peeters/The Sydney Morning Herald via Getty Images)
The report concluded, “RI 2394 is the largest shipwreck site within the LSA and exhibits attributes that fulfill the criteria.”
“Consequently, the preponderance of evidence supports this shipwreck site’s identification as [HMS Endeavour] … and at the same time discounts any of the other investigated shipwreck sites as that of James Cook’s renowned ship of exploration.”
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The Endeavour holds great significance in Australian history as the first European vessel to reach the country's eastern coast.
After the ship sailed the world, it was sold to a private citizen in Feb. 1775 and renamed “Lord Sandwich” before it was scuttled.
Australian researchers have been searching for the HMS Endeavour for decades, as the ship is significant in Australian history. (Hulton Archive via Getty Images)
Marine archaeologists across the world are actively discovering countless numbers of shipwrecks per year.
Just last week, officials announced that they had discovered a 16th-century shipwreck at record depth in French waters.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
Off the coast of Ireland, underwater archaeologists recently found an 18th-century vessel that is believed to be a long-lost treasure ship.
Andrea Margolis is a lifestyle writer for Fox News Digital and Fox Business. Readers can follow her on X at @andreamargs or send story tips to andrea.margolis@fox.com.

close Video’The Points Guy’ shares his summer travel tripsTravel influencer 'The Points Guy' Brian Kelly joins 'Fox & Friends' to share his travel hacks.
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Americans are predicted to set a travel record this year while celebrating the nation's 249th birthday.
AAA released its “Independence Day Travel Forecast” report, finding that 72.2 million people will travel at least 50 miles from home this July 4th.
The forecast looks not just at the Fourth of July but at holiday travel spanning from Saturday, June 28 to Sunday, July 6.
TOURISTS SPRAYED WITH WATER GUNS BY PROTESTERS AS EUROPEAN ANTI-TOURISM TREND GROWS
The 2025 report predicts an increase of 1.7 million travelers compared to last year while finding seven million more travelers compared to 2019.
AAA forecasts a record-breaking 72.2 million Americans will travel for Independence Day this year. (iStock)
Over 60 million Americans are set to drive to their destination, which is a 2.2% increase from 2024.
Of the millions predicted to travel, 8% or 5.84 million Americans will be flying to their destinations.
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About 4.78 million travelers will be using other forms of transportation such as cruises or trains.
1.7 million more Americans will be traveling this year compared to 2024. (iStock)
Stacey Barber, AAA Travel vice president, said in a press release, “Summertime is one of the busiest travel seasons of the year.”
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“Following Memorial Day’s record forecast, AAA is seeing strong demand for road trips and air travel over Independence Day week,” Barber said.
Over 60 million Americans are set to drive to their destination this Fourth of July holiday, which is a 2.2% increase from 2024. (iStock)
Over Memorial Day, a massive 45.1 million Americans traveled at least 50 miles from their home during the long weekend.
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“With the holiday falling on a Friday, travelers have the option of making it a long weekend or taking the entire week to make memories with family and friends,” added Barber.

close VideoGroup of sharks surround woman as she snorkels in MaldivesA snorkeler was swimming in the Maldives when a school of nurse sharks surrounded her. Sindy Claire Bondoc was exploring the crystal-clear ocean with her mask when the creatures swam up close.
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With Friday marking the 50th anniversary of the iconic film “Jaws,” many Americans are paying tribute to sharks even as reports of recent attacks grab headlines.
On Tuesday, a swimmer was bitten on the leg while in South Carolina, according to Hilton Head Fire and Rescue.
A nine-year-old girl was also recently bitten while snorkeling off Boca Grande, Florida.
DAREDEVIL TO SWIM SHARK-FILLED WATERS IN CELEBRATION OF 'JAWS' 50TH ANNIVERSARY
There have been 47 unprovoked shark bites globally in 2024, with 28 taking place in the U.S., according to the Florida Museum of Natural History’s International Shark Attack File (ISAF).
Florida beaches have logged the highest number of shark attacks, with 942 unprovoked bites since 1837.
Of all coastal states, Florida leads with the most unprovoked shark bites since 1837, as experts note changing shark behavior from coast to coast. (iStock)
Hawaii has 199, while California has 141, ISAF has noted.
Activist Julie Andersen, founder of the New York-based Shark Angels, told Fox News Digital that recent attacks do not indicate an increase in sharks in the oceans.
SHARKS SURROUND SNORKELING TOURIST DURING WILD ENCOUNTER: 'THEY LOOKED TERRIFYING'
“The rise in sightings is due to a mix of factors: more people in the water, better technology, shifting ocean conditions, and in some cases, successful conservation,” she said.
“Today, more swimmers, surfers and beachgoers are capturing and sharing their experiences.”
There have been 47 unprovoked shark bites globally in 2024, with 28 taking place in the U.S. (iStock)
She added, “With drones, GoPros and social media, encounters that once went unnoticed are now widely shared. Sharks have always been there. We’re just seeing them more often.”
Shark Angels is dedicated to shark conservation by transforming fear into fascination and promoting education to dispel myths about sharks, the group notes.
RARE 16TH-CENTURY SHIPWRECK FOUND AT RECORD DEPTH IN FRENCH WATERS: 'REMARKABLE DISCOVERY'
Andersen said that in places like California or Cape Cod, Massachusetts, white shark populations are rebounding “thanks to decades of protection.” She said their return is a sign of healthier oceans.
The American Association for the Advancement of Science estimates about 274,000 sharks are killed globally each day.
About 274,000 sharks are killed globally each day. (iStock)
Andersen said several beach communities are seeing higher numbers of sharks this summer.
“Based on trends over the past few years, shark behavior is clearly shifting,” she said.
“From the West Coast to the East Coast and even parts of Mexico, sightings are increasing in places like California, Cape Cod, the Carolinas, Florida, and Baja.”
Andersen said, “New Smyrna Beach in Florida holds the title of ‘shark bite capital of the world.' Located in Volusia County, it consistently tops global charts for shark encounters.”
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She also said that “most of these bites are minor, often from migrating small blacktip sharks mistaking toes and fingers for small bait fish. Many don’t even require stitches.”
One daring endurance athlete is paying a special tribute to “Jaws” by swimming 62 miles around the island of Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts — where the film was set.
A shopper walks past items featuring the “Jaws” movie at Neptune's Sea Chest gift shop on May 12, 2025, in Vineyard Haven, Massachusetts, on Martha's Vineyard Island. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
Lewis Pugh said his goal is to raise awareness of the need to protect sharks and to change public perception of the mighty fish.
Pugh said the popular 1975 movie showcased sharks as “villains, as cold-blooded killers,” he told The Associated Press (AP).
“It was a film about sharks attacking humans and for 50 years, we have been attacking sharks … It’s completely unsustainable. It’s madness. We need to respect them,” Pugh told AP.
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Not sure what to do if you encounter a shark in the water?
The folks at Shark Angels shared some insights to consider.
6 shark tips you must know this summer1. “If a shark comes near you in the water, stay calm. Do not panic.”
2. “Make and maintain eye contact. Sharks are opportunistic predators and prefer an easy target. When they know you see them, they are much less likely to approach.”
3. “Avoid flailing, yelling or trying to hit the shark. Quick, erratic movements can trigger a response.”
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4. “Instead, move slowly and steadily. Keep your eyes on the shark and calmly head toward shore or safety.”
5. “Do not act like prey. Just as you would not run from a lion or a bear, do not flee from a shark.”
6. “If you come across one in the wild, give it space and stay composed. Sharks are not looking for a human meal.”

close VideoArchaeologists rediscover 17th-century brick kiln at William & MaryA team of archaeologists at the College of William & Mary, the second-oldest university in the United States, recently rediscovered a brick kiln used to help construct the Wren Building.
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Archaeologists at William & Mary University in Virginia unearthed a piece of American history tied to the oldest surviving schoolhouse for Black children.
A near-complete foundation – including a chimney base – and cellar were excavated, The Associated Press (AP) reported.
The building belongs to the Williamsburg Bray School, which taught mostly enslaved students in the 1760s using a religious framework to justify slavery.
ARCHAEOLOGISTS SOLVE GRIM MYSTERY OF 1,500-YEAR-OLD BUCKET FOUND AT HISTORIC TOURIST SITE
The Williamsburg Bray School was later transformed into a dormitory for some of the first women to attend college.
William & Mary’s Center for Archaeological Research, Tom Higgins, said the cellar “was probably dug soon after the foundations were laid” as it was not lined with bricks, reported AP.
William & Mary archaeologists uncovered a foundation from the 1700s that once held the nation's oldest surviving schoolhouse for Black children. (William Mary/William Mary Center for Archaeological Research via AP)
Artifacts found from the 18th century through the mid-20th century are not known to connect to the school.
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Recovered artifacts such as buttons and a slate pencil from the 18th century will be researched to determine their origins and connections.
Handmade ceramics and jewelry were found from the 1760s Williamsburg Bray School. (William Mary/William Mary Center for Archaeological Research via AP)
Katherine Rowe, William & Mary’s president, said, “The roots of our city and university entwine here.”
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“Every layer of history that it reveals gives us new insights into our early republic, from the Williamsburg Bray School through the generations that followed, up through the early 20th century,” she added, according to AP.
The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation is working to restore the school. (Michael A. McCoy/For The Washington Post via Getty Images)
The structure was discovered in 2020 by historians and is being restored by the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.
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The Associated Press contributed to this report.

close VideoArchaeologists rediscover 17th-century brick kiln at William & MaryA team of archaeologists at the College of William & Mary, the second-oldest university in the United States, recently rediscovered a brick kiln used to help construct the Wren Building.
NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!
Archaeologists at William & Mary University in Virginia unearthed a piece of American history tied to the oldest surviving schoolhouse for Black children.
A near-complete foundation – including a chimney base – and cellar were excavated, The Associated Press (AP) reported.
The building belongs to the Williamsburg Bray School, which taught mostly enslaved students in the 1760s using a religious framework to justify slavery.
ARCHAEOLOGISTS SOLVE GRIM MYSTERY OF 1,500-YEAR-OLD BUCKET FOUND AT HISTORIC TOURIST SITE
The Williamsburg Bray School was later transformed into a dormitory for some of the first women to attend college.
William & Mary’s Center for Archaeological Research, Tom Higgins, said the cellar “was probably dug soon after the foundations were laid” as it was not lined with bricks, reported AP.
William & Mary archaeologists uncovered a foundation from the 1700s that once held the nation's oldest surviving schoolhouse for Black children. (William Mary/William Mary Center for Archaeological Research via AP)
Artifacts found from the 18th century through the mid-20th century are not known to connect to the school.
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Recovered artifacts such as buttons and a slate pencil from the 18th century will be researched to determine their origins and connections.
Handmade ceramics and jewelry were found from the 1760s Williamsburg Bray School. (William Mary/William Mary Center for Archaeological Research via AP)
Katherine Rowe, William & Mary’s president, said, “The roots of our city and university entwine here.”
For more Lifestyle articles, visit foxnews.com/lifestyle
“Every layer of history that it reveals gives us new insights into our early republic, from the Williamsburg Bray School through the generations that followed, up through the early 20th century,” she added, according to AP.
The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation is working to restore the school. (Michael A. McCoy/For The Washington Post via Getty Images)
The structure was discovered in 2020 by historians and is being restored by the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
The Associated Press contributed to this report.

close VideoArchaeologists rediscover 17th-century brick kiln at William & MaryA team of archaeologists at the College of William & Mary, the second-oldest university in the United States, recently rediscovered a brick kiln used to help construct the Wren Building.
NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!
Archaeologists at William & Mary University in Virginia unearthed a piece of American history tied to the oldest surviving schoolhouse for Black children.
A secret cellar was found with many artifacts such as slate pencil fragments and jewelry, The Associated Press (AP) reported.
The building belongs to the Williamsburg Bray School, which taught mostly enslaved students in the 1760s using a religious framework to justify slavery.
ARCHAEOLOGISTS SOLVE GRIM MYSTERY OF 1,500-YEAR-OLD BUCKET FOUND AT HISTORIC TOURIST SITE
The Williamsburg Bray School was later transformed into a dormitory for some of the first women to attend college.
William & Mary archaeologists uncovered a foundation from the 1700s that once held the nation's oldest surviving schoolhouse for Black children. (William Mary/William Mary Center for Archaeological Research via AP)
William & Mary’s Center for Archaeological Research, Tom Higgins, said the cellar “was probably dug soon after the foundations were laid” as it was not lined with bricks, reported AP.
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Handmade ceramics associated with sites of enslavement and a shard of glass depicting Minerva, Roman goddess of wisdom, justice, war and the arts, were also found.
Handmade ceramics and jewelry were found from the 1760s Williamsburg Bray School. (William Mary/William Mary Center for Archaeological Research via AP)
Katherine Rowe, William & Mary’s president, said, “The roots of our city and university entwine here.”
For more Lifestyle articles, visit foxnews.com/lifestyle
“Every layer of history that it reveals gives us new insights into our early republic, from the Williamsburg Bray School through the generations that followed, up through the early 20th century,” she added, according to AP.
The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation is working to restore the school. (Michael A. McCoy/For The Washington Post via Getty Images)
The structure was discovered in 2020 by historians and is being restored by the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.
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The Associated Press contributed to this report.

close VideoOfficials in Japan announce tourism goal of 60M visitors by 2030 after record-breaking yearHokuto Asano and Yukiyoshi Noguchi at the Embassy of Japan in Washington, D.C., tell Fox News Digital about the record number of Americans visiting Japan, and how the country plans to invest in tourism.
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Japan broke a record for tourism in 2024, with people from all over the world visiting the island nation. But the country has even bigger tourist goals for the years ahead.
Hokuto Asano, first secretary at the Embassy of Japan in Washington, D.C., told Fox News Digital in an interview that with the influx of tourists, the country is working to meet demand. (See the video at the top of this article.)
“Overtourism is a new challenge for the Japanese community,” said Asano. “So we need to pursue how to create a win-win relationship [between] Japanese local people and foreign tourists.”
POPULAR TRAVEL DESTINATION BREAKS ANNUAL TOURISM RECORD, SETS NEW GOAL OF 60M VISITORS
News outlets have reported on a “two-tier” pricing system at restaurants, theme parks and other attractions, with tourists charged more for services and experiences than Japanese citizens are charged.
“The price of the restaurant, sushi restaurant in Japan, even hotel — the price is also increasing,” Asano said. “So Japanese people sometimes say [that] Japanese people cannot enjoy the domestic tourism.”
Nearly three million Americans visited Japan in 2024, according to recorsd. (iStock)
He added, “But there should be a difference in the taste or preference between Japan and Japanese people and international tourists. There should be a difference in the price and also product or service toward the international tourists.”
Between Jan. 1 and Nov. 30, nearly 33.4 million travelers visited Japan, according to the country’s government site projections. Nearly three million Americans visited the country in 2024.
MUSEUM STAFF LEAVES ‘MONA LISA’ FANS HIGH AND DRY AS LOUVRE SHUTS DOWN WITHOUT WARNING
Asano said the number of visitors last year ended up reaching 36 million and that Japan has a plan to nearly double the number of visitors in the next five years.
“In 2030, we want [to reach] the goal of 60 million people,” said Asano.
The shadow of Mount Fuji is cast on clouds hanging below the summit in August 2019 in Japan. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong, File)
The sacred Mount Fuji is climbed by 200,000 to 300,000 people every summer, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization.
Lately, however, Mt. Fuji has been pegged “trash mountain” due to serious overcrowding and garbage atop the world-famous landmark.
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Asano said tourists have reported that there are not many trashcans in Japan — but he pointed to the limited number as a safety measure to “counter terrorism.”
“We need to share our manner[s] [with those who] visit tourist destinations,” said Asano.
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“So we would like [them to] understand [about] bringing back his or her own trash,” he said.
Asano suggested that tourists need to be more respectful when visiting Japan.
A group of friends visits a Japanese shrine and takes selfies with a smartphone.
“We need to share our values with international tourists,” he said.
When it comes to tourists in Japan, it's not just about “the trip,” he said.
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“It's a good means to share culture and values. We would like international tourists to know more [about] Japan in terms of culture or sacred places or specific places,” he said.
Asano added, “Maybe we can share how to enjoy those sacred places or share our tradition.”

close Video250th Anniversary of the Battle of Bunker HillA re-enactor dressed up as a Revolutionary War drummer ahead of the 250th Anniversary events. One of the turning points during the Revolutionary War was the Battle of Bunker Hill 250 years ago. A few of those unsung heroes who fought on Bunker Hill still tell their story – by their descendants.
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CHARLESTOWN, MA – One of the turning points during the Revolutionary War was the Battle of Bunker Hill 250 years ago.
While it was a British victory, the confidence and morale of the colonial militia were greatly boosted.
The militia were not trained soldiers, but rather ordinary men who were doctors, tradesmen, even farmers. (See the video at the top of this article.)
TWO REVOLUTIONARY WAR LETTERS ARE REUNITED AT FORT TICONDEROGA AFTER 250 YEARS APART
Timothy Riordan, Ph.D., historian and vice president of the Charlestown Historical Society in Massachusetts, said the average age of the men fighting the British Army was 27 years old.
With Riordan's research, he founded the “Brothers of the Battle” program.
This print shows four British warships landing troops and firing on Charlestown. A British battery on Copp's Hill in Boston also fires on Charlestown, which is in flames; image shows the assault on Bunker's Hill. (Library of Congress)
It helps to locate and find descendants of militiamen who fought for America’s independence, he said.
“Bunker Hill was thought of as the most important battle because it’s where we proved we could fight the British,” Riordan told Fox News.
WHO WERE THE SIGNERS OF THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE?
Dozens of descendants gathered for events around the 250th anniversary. One of them was a New Hampshire representative of Rockingham 13 in Derry, New Hampshire.
State Rep. Steve Pearson (R) is a descendant of Lt. John Wheeler, who fought under Doolittle's regiment at the Battle of Bunker Hill.
State Rep. Steve Pearson talked about a family member who fought in the Battle of Bunker Hill 250 years ago. (Chelsea Torres/Fox News)
Pearson said the Battle of Bunker Hill “really set the tone in the colonies, set the tone in media propaganda … [It] made people realize, 'There's no going back now.'”
Another descendant eager to tell the story of a long-admired family member is Matt Woodfin.
He said he's proud to be the descendant of two men who fought at the Battle of Bunker Hill.
Just before the Battle of Bunker Hill, 20,000 men from the area decided this was the time to stand up to the British.
One is Michael Dalton, expected to have been a fife during the battle.
“He was one that was blowing the flute-type whistle to kind of direct troops, left, right, when to eat, when to march,” Woodfin told Fox News.
Just before the Battle of Bunker Hill, 20,000 men from the area decided this was the time to stand up to the British.
One of those men was Woodfin's eighth great-uncle, Henry Dearborn.
Henry Dearborn, shown here, was among those who stood up to the British. One of his descendants told the story of how the colonial man went from being a doctor to secretary of war under President Thomas Jefferson. (Library of Congress)
“He heard about Concord and Lexington and just put down whatever he was doing and just started walking south.”
Dearborn was a doctor who became a captain, said Woodfin.
“Before a formal army, before anything like that, you basically earned your rank by the number of folks you were able to recruit. He came down with 40, 50, 60 men and showed up here as a captain,” said Woodfin.
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Dearborn later served under President Thomas Jefferson as secretary of war in 1801.
Woodfin said Jefferson presented an ornate sword to Dearborn during a ceremony. It has been taken care of by the Woodfin family for generations.
Matt Woodfin said his eighth great uncle was Henry Dearborn. An ornate sword presented to Dearborn by President Thomas Jefferson has been cherished by the family for generations. (Chelsea Torres/Fox News)
Many more trekked to Charlestown, Massachusetts, including Josiah Puffer.
Sheila Puffer, a descendant of his, said “he lost a thumb [due to] the explosion of a gun in his hands and was disqualified from military service.”
She found a book written by a family member over 100 years ago, telling many stories of Josiah Puffer over the years. He fought in the French and Indian War, then at Bunker Hill.
“When he enlisted, it is said that he passed the examination by wearing gloves of which the thumb of one was filled with wood,” she said.
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While the British won the battle at Bunker Hill — the colonial militia got the confidence boost.
“They only lost because they ran out of ammunition,” said Riordan.
The British Army lost twice as many casualties than the American patriots.
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But Riordan said that proves an undisciplined and untrained militia could stand against the British.
“It’s not that they stood there and fought — it’s because they stood there and fought for what they believed in,” said Riordan.
Chelsea Torres joined Fox News in 2023 as a Multimedia Reporter based in Charlotte.

close VideoPresident of Notre Dame Cathedral’s fundraising effort reveals reopening plansMichel Picaud, president of Friends of Notre-Dame de Paris, shares updates on the restoration of the Notre Dame Cathedral in France five years after a fire shut the site down.
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Officials recently unveiled the deepest-recorded shipwreck in French waters, complete with a remarkably well-preserved cargo dating back 500 years.
The findings were announced by the French Department of Underwater and Submarine Archaeological Research (DRASSM) in a Facebook post on June 11.
Officials said the ship was found by a French Navy unit during a military operation on March 4.
ARCHAEOLOGIST SHEDS NEW LIGHT ON ASTONISHING DISCOVERY OF WRECKED SLAVE SHIPS: 'STRANDED ON THE COAST'
The shipwreck, which has been dubbed Camarat 4, was found off the coast of Ramatuelle, in southeastern France. It was found over one-and-a-half miles underwater.
“The shipwreck was discovered unexpectedly during an exploratory mission conducted as part of the ministerial strategy for mastering the seabed,” said DRASSM’s post, which was translated from French to English.
French officials recently announced the discovery of Camarat 4, the deepest shipwreck in French waters. (DRASSM)
“This newly found wreck stretches 30 meters long and 7 meters wide, indicating a large navigation unit.”
Officials believe that the vessel dates back to the 16th century based on its cargo, which has remarkably survived the past five centuries.
Underwater pictures show a plethora of handmade ceramics near the wrecked ship. Historians believe the well-crafted artifacts originated from Liguria, Italy.
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“The quality of the images obtained allows for detailed examination of this merchandise: around 200 visible polychrome faience [glazed ceramic ware] pitchers, with many more seemingly trapped under sediment,” DRASSM said.
The pitchers also prominently feature the Christogram IHS, which symbolizes Jesus Christ, reflecting the enormous role that Christianity played in early modern Europe.
“These globular pitchers with pinched spouts and ribbon handles, typical of 16th-century Ligurian production, are adorned with the Christ monogram 'IHS' [and] various vegetal and geometric decorations,” DRASSM added. “Several motifs have been identified.”
The shipwreck, discovered off the coast of Ramatuelle, lies submerged over one-and-a-half miles deep in the ocean. (DRASSM)
“The cargo also includes about 100 plates, probably of Ligurian origin as well. Other items resemble onboard equipment: anchors, cannons and two cauldrons,” the government agency continued.
“Numerous remnants are concealed under the sand and will require further study.”
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The statement noted that no other maritime cultural asset has been discovered at such depths in French waters, highlighting the extraordinary nature of the find.
“The wreck has remained untouched by recovery efforts, and at this depth, it has been preserved from degradation, including plundering,” DRASSM added.
The 16th-century vessel boasts a remarkably well-preserved cargo, featuring faience pitchers from Liguria, Italy, which highlight the region's ceramic craftsmanship. (DRASSM)
“This presents a unique research opportunity … [It's] a remarkable discovery due to its depth, unprecedented nature, and the opportunity it offers to study an almost intact 16th-century ensemble.”
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Multiple centuries-old shipwrecks have been found in European waters so far this year.
Officials from France say that the well-preserved shipwreck “presents a unique research opportunity.” (DRASSM)
Off the coast of Ireland, underwater archaeologists recently found an 18th-century vessel that is believed to be a long-lost treasure ship.
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In Spain, an early modern shipwreck was recently found in an unlikely place: beneath a former fish market.
Andrea Margolis is a lifestyle writer for Fox News Digital and Fox Business. Readers can follow her on X at @andreamargs or send story tips to andrea.margolis@fox.com.