The Regulars are Coming! Signal Paul Revere’s Ride with Paper Lanterns!

Imagine the year is 1775, and the winds of change are sweeping through the thirteen colonies. In the midst of colonial chaos, a man stood up and became a legend. Paul Revere, a skilled silversmith from Boston, embarked on a dangerous mission to warn his fellow patriots about the imminent arrival of British troops. His bravery and determination would go down in history.

But who was Paul Revere, and why was his midnight ride so significant? Let us help you introduce this historical event with a whole collection of Revolutionary War Resources!

One if by Land, and Two if by Sea…An Introduction to Paul Revere’s Ride Poem

If you’ve taught these standards before, you know that the poem “The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is a great way to tell the tale of Paul Revere and his contributions to the birth of our nation. 

Introducing our  Old North Church Lantern Printable Template, a fun craft paying tribute to the historic night of Paul Revere’s Ride! Transport your students back in time as they construct and decorate their very own lanterns, reminiscent of the iconic lanterns hung in the Old North Church.

This beautifully designed printable template captures the essence of that fateful night. It serves as an introduction to the poem “The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere”, allowing you to recreate a pivotal moment in American history right in your classroom. 

Download, Print, and Create the Paul Revere Lantern!

Use the download button to download the printable PDF resource file. Instructions for completing the craft are below.

1. Print the two-page template (single-sided). We recommend printing on cardstock for durability and ease of assembly.
2. Have students color the template entirely using colored pencils or crayons. They do not have to color the template section that serves as the bottom of the lantern.
3. Have students cut out the candle piece and roll it around their fingers or a marker to form it into a cylindrical shape. Tape or glue the ends together to form the candle.
4. Have students cut out the remaining pieces, then fold the tabs and sections on the folding lines. Remind students to make sharp creases. 
5. Once all folds are made, assemble the two halves of the lantern by placing glue where marked. You might want to have a bit of clear tape on hand, just in case a few students need a bit of help.
6. Once the lantern has taken shape, bring the two halves of the hanger together and glue, then punch a hole through the center and string.
7. Now to light your lantern! Place glue on the two tabs and around the perimeter of the bottom of the candle. Set the candle in place and hold it to dry. You could also use a battery-operated tealight to make your lantern glow!

Paired with the right resources, this craft will make planning your Revolutionary War Unit a breeze! Grab these while you’re here!

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