One of the important stops a traveler must make while tracing the history of the Revolutionary War is the Old South Meeting House. It was here that colonists gathered to plan action against the increasingly unpopular British rule. This site is where the infamous Boston Tea Party incident was hatched and put into motion. The Boston Tea Party is considered one of the events that sparked the Revolutionary War that eventually drove the British out and made way for the birth of a brand new country.

Powerful Exhibits

See interactive displays and lifelike recreations in “Voices of Protest.” You can learn the history of the building that is widely considered one of the most influential Colonial sites in the country. Before the American Revolution, this was the largest building in Boston and accommodated upwards of 5,000 colonists for meetings. Another fascinating exhibit is “If These Walls Could Speak,” which details the events in the Boston area that led up to the war. For extra fun, there are also scavenger hunts designed to help visitors of all ages to learn more about history. Perhaps the tour’s most profound part is the location Samuel Adams activated the Boston Tea Party. Following the events in Boston Harbor, the building suffered interior destruction at the hands of the British, who recognized its importance to colonists. Fortunately, Old South has been restored and maintained so visitors from all over can experience its classic architecture and design.

History Beyond the American Revolution

This site was a special place that valued free speech and fiercely defended it. In fact, in the early 20th century Old South Meeting House opened its doors to organizations that were shut out of other venues. This historical site has been in danger of being destroyed multiple times, but the building was saved thanks to influential figures like Mary Hemenway, Wendall Phillips, and Julia Ward Howe. In fact, many consider this building as the one that kicked off a nationwide preservation effort to protect historic sites across the country. Old South continues to promote free speech and the free exchange of ideas by holding public events, debates, and presentations to this day.

The Many Guests of Old South

As you walk around the inside of this historic building, you can learn about its many influential guests. For example, this is the site of Benjamin Franklin’s baptism, where George Washington spoke, and philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson recited his writing. Phyllis Wheatley, the first published African-American author, attended church here. There are so many other influential figures that walked through the doors at Old South; even guests familiar with the history are sure to learn more upon visiting.