Boston is an historic city filled with well-known and off-the-beaten path attractions that will give visitors an intimate insight into its past. But there are also hidden gems tucked away that offer visitors another view into Boston’s rich past.
Boston Common was first established as one of America’s earliest public parks in 1634 and features many historic structures designed by Charles Bulfinch, as well as being the location for one of its key turning points of the American Revolution: The Boston Tea Party.
Bunker Hill Monument
Bunker Hill Monument, a 221-foot obelisk that commemorates the initial major battle of the Revolutionary War, can be reached via spiral staircase. Visitors can climb it before visiting exhibits within its adjacent lodge. Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1961 and added to the National Register of Historic Places five years later.
This monument, located along Boston’s Freedom Trail, commemorates Colonel William Prescott – who famously ordered his men not to fire until they saw the whites of their eyes – as well as General Putnam and Dr. Joseph Warren who both perished during battle. It also includes statues commemorating these figures.
Faneuil Hall
Faneuil Hall was known as the Cradle of Liberty during the American Revolution and served as an important public gathering space. There, speeches by Samuel Adams and other patriots encouraging independence from Great Britain were given here, while its surrounding marketplaces provided economic stimulus that helped fund rebellion efforts.
Faneuil Hall was often associated with slavery despite its pro-freedom rhetoric. Peter Faneuil made his fortune from trading enslaved people between Africa and the West Indies before returning with molasses and sugar to Boston. Additionally, its grasshopper weathervane reflected that of London’s Royal Exchange.
Boston Common
Boston Common, covering 50 acres, represents American Country Place Era by featuring historic buildings and gardens with intricate designs as well as sports fields and a frog pond.
Puritan colonists purchased the land that would become Boston Common in 1634. Each head of household contributed six shillings towards this purchase – thus creating one of Boston’s first protected public areas.
The Common was an important gathering place during the Revolutionary War. Colonial militia would muster and camp out there; murderers, pirates, heretics and suspected witches would be hanged from an ancient elm known as The Great Elm.
The Common is still used today as a venue for free speech and public assembly, including events hosted by Charles Lindbergh in promoting commercial aviation; civil rights marches held here included one led by Martin Luther King Jr.; civil rights protests were also frequently staged here during this century.
Castle Island
Castle Island Park provides a wonderful way for the entire family to learn history and take in some fresh air, located in South Boston (known as Southie) with plenty of activities and facilities for everyone to enjoy.
Fort Independence stands as a commanding presence on Castle Island. Constructed between 1834 and 1851, its five-bastioned design makes a statement of power that draws visitors in from near and far alike.
Fort MacArthur is one of the oldest fortified sites of British origin in the United States and features two walking loops and an attractive beach, as well as many scenic points, benches and trails for hikers to enjoy. Visitors can tour this historic fortification while learning its role in the American Revolution. Visiting is free.
Paul Revere House
Paul Revere was a silversmith and Revolutionary War hero who resided at this North Square house from 1770-1800, later making it his permanent residence after moving onto Boston’s Freedom Trail. Now preserved as a museum on Boston’s Freedom Trail, this home gives an in-depth glimpse of life during 17th and 18th century America.
The dwelling has been restored to look much as it would have in its late-17th-century incarnation; nearly 90% of its two doors, three window frames, flooring materials, foundation materials, inner wall materials and raftering are original components.
Faneuil Hall Market, Old North Church and Haymarket and Aquarium “T” stations can all be reached within walking distance from this house. Due to limited street parking availability, we strongly suggest taking public transit or using taxi services when possible.
Old North Church
Old North Church is an iconic part of the Freedom Trail, making for a must-visit site for visitors. Wander through its box pews, admire its 17th-century angels flanking its organ and engage with knowledgeable educators for an unforgettable experience.
Clough House on the church campus dates back to 1715 and offers guests free colonial printing demonstrations as well as unique New England-made products in an artisan gift shop.
As Old North’s steeple is synonymous with American liberty, recent research revealed that Newark Jackson – a parishioner and former sailor who led an Old North church congregation at one time – captained a 1743 schooner that transported slaves illegally to Suriname. Thus provoking leadership of Old North to reconsider how their history links up with Colonial slavery.
