The House concurrent resolution commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Westminster Massacre, which is recognized by Vermonters as the first bloodshed of the American Revolution. The resolution outlines the historical context leading up to the event, including the adoption of the Articles of Association by the Continental Congress in 1774, which established a trade embargo against Great Britain. Tensions escalated in 1775 as local Whigs faced legal challenges from their Tory neighbors, prompting a group of 100 Whigs to occupy the courthouse in Westminster to demand justice. Despite assurances from Judge Thomas Chandler, Sheriff William Paterson and his posse violently confronted the protesters, resulting in injuries and fatalities among the Whigs.

In response to the sheriff's actions, a larger militia of 400 armed individuals recaptured the courthouse the following day, effectively ending New York's governance in Cumberland County. This event occurred nearly two years before Vermont declared its independence in 1777. The resolution calls for the General Assembly to officially commemorate this significant historical event and directs the Secretary of State to send a copy of the resolution to the Westminster Historical Society.