Milford residents celebrated American history Saturday with a historical reenactment of the Battle of Lexington.

The reenactment marked the 233rd anniversary of the battle, which helped set the Revolutionary War in motion. Connecticut history buffs decked out in colonial garb and armed with bayonets and muskets honored the militiamen's important role in America's battle for independence.

The battle actually took place in Colonial Massachusetts in 1775. It was the first military engagement of the Revolutionary War, as British troops attempted to capture and destroy the militia's supplies.

The event was Milford's first reenactment of the battle. Participants say spectators can get a better sense of history by witnessing it first hand.