Old South Meeting House

Overview

Old South Meeting House (1729) is a former Puritan meeting house that served as the organizing point for the Boston Tea Party on December 16, 1773. It now operates as a museum exploring Boston's role in the fight for freedom of speech and civil rights.

Highlights

• Tea Party Debate: The mass meeting of 5,000 colonists that launched the Boston Tea Party was held here.
• Voices of Protest: Interactive exhibit connecting colonial-era protests to modern civil rights movements.
• Original Pulpit Area: Where Samuel Adams declared "This meeting can do nothing more to save the country!"

History

Built in 1729 as a Congregational church, it was the largest building in colonial Boston. Beyond the Tea Party, it hosted Phillis Wheatley's poetry readings and abolitionist meetings. British soldiers used it as a riding stable during the occupation.

Visitor Tips

• Combo ticket: Discounted with the Old State House.
• Audio tour: Included with admission, narrated by historical characters.
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.