The Old North Church

Address:Boston, Massachusetts

Come visit one of the vital spots of the American Revolution at the Old North Church in Boston, Massachusetts! This historic Episcopal church in the North End of Boston served as Paul Revere's base for signaling his companions in Charlestown regarding British troop movements. Today, the Old North Church operates as Boston's oldest church, as well as offers tours of the site to visitors from all over the world.

The Old North Church was originally built in 1723, inspired by the work of Christopher Wren, the man responsible for rebuilding London after the Great Fire. On April 18, 1775, Paul Revere used the 191 foot steeple of the Old North Church in order to broadcast to Charlestown Patriots across the Charles River the nature of the British troop movements, as memorized by many an American schoolchild: "One if by land, two if by sea." That message was then relayed to revolutionaries all over New England, resulting in the Battle of Lexington and Concord, and the official beginning of the Revolutionary War, the following day. Just over two centuries later, on July 11, 1976, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip visited the Old North Church to commemorate the bicentennial celebration.

Visitors to the Old North Church can partake in any of a variety of tours. The more basic tour is a brief seven to ten minute tour of the Old North Church structure and history. The more in-depth, 50 minute "behind-the-scenes" tour includes a visit to the steeple and the crypt to see the tomb of British Major John Pitcairn, who was killed in the Battle of Bunker Hill. After the tour, visitors to the Old North Church can visit the unique gift shop, proceeds from which go to support the church. Afterwards, visitors to the Old North Church can easily walk to dozens of restaurants in downtown Boston and enjoy the unique culture in the North End.

To get to the Old North Church, take the Orange or Green Line of the T to Haymarket. If driving, take I-93 to Causeway Street, travel north on Causeway Street until it turns into Commercial Street, turn east off of Commercial Street onto Hull Street and drive until it intersects with Salem Street. The whole family will love this unique blend of religious and military history!