THE FREEDOM TRAIL -Old South Meeting House

A Boston National Historical Park cooperating site

**The Old South Meeting House was built in 1729. In colonial times, statesman Benjamin Franklin was baptized here. Phillis Wheatley, the first published black poet, was a member, as were patriots James Otis, Thomas Cushing, and William Dawes. In the 19th century Old South was one of the first buildings in the United States to be preserved as an historic site. Today, Old South is an impeccable example of how colonial Boston actually looked. The ongoing exhibit "Voices of Protest" tells visitors the story of the Old South Meeting House and of the men and women whose achievements have shaped its history.

One of the key events that sparked the Revolution-- The Boston Tea Party, saw patriots flocking to Old South to debate the issues of the day. They argued about the Boston Massacre, and they protested impressment of American sailors into the British Navy. And then, on the night of December 16, 1773, they acted. Over 5,000 angry colonists gathered at Old South to protest a tax on tea. After hours of debate, Samuel Adams gave the secret signal that launched the Boston Tea Party. The Sons of Liberty, disguised as Indians, raced to Griffin's Wharf and dumped 342 chests of tea into Boston Harbor.

Hours & Admission: Small admission fee. Group rates available. Call (617)482-6439 for more information or visit the Old South Meeting House web site.