Site of the Boston Massacre – Boston, Massachusetts - Atlas Obscura
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Site of the Boston Massacre

Boston, Massachusetts

The American Revolution was galvanized into serious action due to the tragic clash with British soldiers that occurred at this location. 

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This early illustration reflects the extreme interest and reaction to the massacre by the colonists earlyamerica.com (Early America)
Shot from across the street nuevecuervos (Atlas Obscura User)
It’s around the corner from the marker
4453
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Several were killed by British troops here on the streets of Boston.

The incident started when British troops were surrounded by a mob of colonists protesting taxes outside the Old State House on March 5, 1770. Emotions sizzled until—possibly accidentally, but certainly tragically—the soldiers fired on the crowd, killing five men.

Paul Revere, engraver and silversmith in addition to dedicated patriot, responded to this incident by creating an engraving of the scene, one of the most common images used to represent this sad day in Boston history. The circular cobblestone design outside the Old State House represents where the fallen patriots lay.

Once a year, on the Saturday closest to March 5, reenactors recreate the events of this night. 

The Old State House is steps away and includes an excellent museum that is a great first stop for people exploring the revolutionary history of Boston.

Know Before You Go

This site is right in front of the old State House, which sits above the orange line (State Street Station).

american revolution memento mori memorials military
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