Old State House

The Old State House

Built in 1713 to house the government offices of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, the Old State House is the oldest surviving public building in Boston, and America’s oldest and finest example of British architecture. As the place where politics and economic interests merged, this architectural gem was at the center of events in Revolutionary Boston.

During the years leading up to the American Revolution, the Old State House was the symbol of Royal British power. It was the meeting place of three important government entities: the seat of the Royal Government, the Massachusetts Assembly, and the Supreme Judicial Court. It was also the location of the Merchant’s Exchange, important in the maritime trade in colonial Boston.

As the center of colonial government, and at the crossroads of the city, the Old State House was a major focal point for key events in America’s history. As tensions increased between the colonies and the British crown, patriots appeared before the Council Chamber of the Royal Governor to make their grievances known in stirring speeches, debates, and formal appeals. The Boston Massacre on March 5, 1770, when violence erupted between occupying British forces and local citizens, took place right in front. The Declaration of Independence was first read to the citizens of Boston from the front balcony of the Old State house on July 18, 1776.

Additional Information

Visit the website here: www.revolutionaryboston.org