Why is Diamond Middle School named after William Diamond? Who was William Diamond?

Early Life and Background

William Diamond was born on July 21, 1755, in Boston, Suffolk County, Massachusetts, USA. He was the son of Thomas Smith Diamond and Mary Mclean Diamond.

Military Service

As a young man during the American Revolutionary War, William Diamond initially served as a drummer. He famously played his drum at the Battle of Lexington and the Battle of Bunker Hill (Breed’s Hill), signaling the start of hostilities with what has been termed the “shot heard round the world.”

William’s military engagements included:

• June 1775: He led the Lexington militia to the Battle of Bunker Hill.
• May to July 1777: Enlisted in Captain Jesse Wyman’s Company of Colonel Josiah Whitney’s Regiment, serving in Rhode Island.
• December 1776: Responded to General George Washington’s call for volunteers, extending his service by six weeks, which included participation in the pivotal Battle of Trenton.
• September to December 1781: Served in Captain John Hayward’s Company, Colonel Joseph Webb’s Regiment.
• William was present at the British surrender at Yorktown, marking a decisive end to major combat operations in the war.

Post-War Life

After the war, William returned to civilian life and learned the trade of wheelwrighting. In 1783, he married Rebecca Simonds, the daughter of a prominent Lexington family, further establishing himself in the community. Together, they had six children. William continued working as a wheelwright and later as a farm worker.

Legacy

William Diamond remains a significant historical figure due to his role in key moments of the American Revolutionary War. His life embodies the spirit of the American patriots who fought for independence. Drummers were the glue of the milita, hence the naming choice of the middle school. William Diamond goes to show you how you can do anything and leave a legacy at any age.

Special thanks to Ruby Trinh with the research!! Go Diamond Drummers!