Old North Church

03/01/06

Another famous Boston scene by Wendy C. at InsiderPages

Contributor at Insider Pages

The Old North Church, located convieniently on the Freedom Trail in Boston's North End, is a great place to see history come to life. It was here that the two lanterns were hung in the steeple to tell the American Revolutionary Paul Revere that the British were coming by sea so that he could warn his fellow colonials in the country. The steeple still stands majestically visible above other area buildings today. It is still a functioning Episcopalian Church, but during times when it is not in use for mass, it is open for free tours. Featuring pieces of art and history from Colonial Times, visitors should take advantage of visiting this landmark if given the chance.

PROS: Historical Landmark

CONS: None

08/27/06

The oldest church in Boston opened in 1723 and remains a shining symbol of American independence.

by Contributor at Citysearch

The Background
On the night of April 18, 1775, two lanterns were hung briefly in the church's steeple to warn that the British were moving by sea, but those few moments secured the church its place in history. The nervous sexton, fearful of discovery, slipped out through a back window as Paul Revere and others proceeded to alert the countryside. Two months later, British general Thomas Gage watched the Battle of Bunker Hill from the same vantage point. A man named John Childs reportedly flew from it in a rudimentary glider on Sept. 13, 1757.

Facts
The four cherubs flanking the church's organ were stolen from a French ship by one of the local privateers who comprised an important branch of the economy. The 16th-century statue of the Virgin Mary was likewise stolen at sea from the prow of a Portuguese vessel.

08/13/02

History at its Best

by xerxes151 at Citysearch

A great place to drop in on while having lunch in the North End. Heard a volunteer's recounting of the Church's history which was quite interesting. Best of all it is Free!