Washington now directed his attention to the fortifications of Boston; and every effective man in the town volunteered his services to devote two days in every week till it was completed. By a resolve of Congress of March 25th, 1776, a vote of thanks was passed to General Washington and the officers and soldiers under his command, for their wise and spirited conduct in the siege and acquisition of Boston. Also a gold medal to General Washington, of which the following is a description:—
Occasion.—Evacuation of Boston by the British troops.
Device.—The head of General Washington, in profile.
Legend.—Georgio Washington, supremo duci exercitum adsertori libertatis comitia Americana.
Reverse.—Troops advancing towards a town which is seen at a distance. Troops marching to the river. Ships in view. General Washington in front, and mounted, with his staff, whose attention he is directing to the embarking enemy.
Legend.—Hostibus primo Fugatis.
Exergue.—Bostonium recuperatum 17 Martii, 1776.