The Old State House was the centre of some of the most important American colonial events leading up to the American Revolution. During the 1760’s and early 1770’s colonists grappled with the difficulties of British rule while suffering under increasingly harsh treatment. Respected citizens of Boston met at Old State House to debate how to respond to unfair British taxes, levies and governmental restrictions and from here the beginnings of the American Revolution were set in motion.
This beautiful brick structure was designed in the elegant and stately Georgian style. Built in 1713 the building and the square it overlooks was the centre of Boston civic life. American patriots met here in the years leading up to the American Revolution and the square outside was the site of one of the single greatest catalysts in the lead up to the war. On 5 March 1770 British soldiers shot and killed five Boston citizens, injuring many others. This event created an outcry in the American colonies and war from this point was inevitable.
The newly signed Declaration of Independence was read from the building’s balcony in July 1776 and after the revolution the already historic building served as the new Massachusetts capitol building until the present capitol building was completed in 1798. Inside, the wonderful museum takes visitors through the history of the building and the lead up to the revolution. Additional exhibitions highlight the Boston Tea Party and feature biographies on many of the patriots that were instrumental in the movement for American independence.
Old State House is located along the Freedom Trail Walk at the corner of State and Washington Streets. The nearest T Subway station is Government Centre, located just two blocks away.
