The Freedom Trail

Over spring break this year, I visited Boston, Massachusetts and walked the Freedom Trail. There, I had the opportunity to explore museums, meetinghouses, churches, and burial grounds. I was excited to learn about the brave people who shaped our nation and discover the rich history of the American Revolution. The 16 sites of the Freedom Trail that represent liberty well are Boston Common, the Massachusetts State House, Park Street Church, Granary Burying Ground, King’s Chapel, King’s Chapel Burying Ground, Benjamin Franklin Statue & Boston Latin School, Old Corner Bookstore, Old South Meeting House, Old State House, the site of Boston Massacre, Faneuil Hall, the Paul Revere House, Old North Church, Copp’s Hill Burying Ground, the Bunker Hill

Since 1634 this park has been used to benefit the “common” community. Used as a pasture for livestock until 1830, the Common allowed local animals a grazing land. This was also a place for celebration. Here, people set off fireworks and had bonfires after the repeal of the Stamp Act and to mark the end of the Revolutionary War. Later in its time, anti-Vietnam war and civil rights rallies were held (including the attendance of MLK). Today, the park is open for all.

Moving on, the Massachusetts State House, which was completed on January 11, 1798, is a highly-praised public building. The land for the State House was originally used as John Hancock’s cow pasture. The final touches were crafted by Paul Revere. It was adorned for its first time in 1874 and was painted gray during World War II to protect the city from bombing attacks. It was here that senators, state representatives, and the governor conducted daily business of the Commonwealth. Now, it's 6.7 acres of grounds are available for public tours.

Additionally, Park Street Church was built and founded in 1809. It soon became known for supporting Abolitionist causes. Still active today in Boston as a Congregationalist church, Park Street Church continues to hold weekly religious

A tragic setting due to the tensions brought on by the Redcoats in 1768. The Sons of Liberty held funerals for the victims in order to turn public opinion against the Redcoats. At time time, Bostonians referred to it as “Unhappy Disturbance at Boston”, however Paul Revere felt that it was much more so a “bloody massacre” (Boston 2016).

Moving on, Faneuil Hall’s impact on American history still affect us today. Usually referred to as "the home of free speech". Faneuil Hall hosted America's first Town Meeting. It's vital role in politics had not been part of its original plans, but it became home to a collection of revolutionary events. Here in 1764 the Americans first protested against both the Sugar and Stamp Acts. Today, nearly 500 citizens a year swear their oath of allegiance to Faneuil Hall as new citizens.

Furthermore, Paul Revere’s house is the oldest structure in downtown Boston. After being purchased in 1770, he has his family dwelled there during the revolution, including his famous ride to Lexington on April 18th, 1775. Visitors can come here and understand the impact of Paul Revere’s life and what it was like to live in 17th century