By Harry Kane

General George Washington rode in on horseback, followed by his colonial cronies, reenacting the flag-raising ceremony traditionally celebrated annually every New Year’s Day in Somerville’s Prospect Hill Park.

Revolutionary war era characters traveling from Somerville’s City Hall to the Prospect Hill Tower commemorated the traditional raising of the 13-stripped Union Jack flag this Jan. 1, 2013.

This year marks the 237th year since revolutionaries raised the nation’s first flag in 1776. A ceremony honoring the “Grand Union” flag invigorated the spectators this brisk day, giving way to enthusiasm for the upcoming New Year.

Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone had positive thoughts for 2013 and beyond. “I’m excited and proud that we are in a city that overwhelmingly re-elected our president,” said the Mayor.

Mayor Curtatone noted the passing of a beloved friend of The Somerville News. “We lost another great Somervilian, Robert Publicover, former publisher and editor of The Somerville News,” said the Mayor Curtatone, “who spoke so positively and broadly about Somerville as a community. Our diversity – our multicultural strength – our place in history and the values and virtues we all embrace.”

Marty Parks of Somerville Public Works has assisted the flag-raising reenactment for the past 15 years. “We usually let everyone in after the event,” she said.

Sadly, Prospect Tower has fallen into disrepair. For the first time in a while the tower was deemed unsafe and residents were not allowed their yearly visit to the top of the monument.

– Video by Harry Kane