​Old State House

Built in 1713, the Old State House served as the seat of government in colonial Massachusetts. During the 18th century, the building housed the royal governor’s council, the colonial legislature, county and provincial courts, and a thriving exchange where wealthy merchants could buy, sell, and share in each other’s business ventures. Prior to Independence, the building and its surrounding public square served as a focal point for resistance to British authority. In the Representatives chamber, colonial lawmakers gave shape to fundamental ideas about representation and union that still play a role in American life today. The shocking bloodshed known as the Boston Massacre occurred beneath the Old State House balcony on March 5, 1770. Later, the building served as the first State House of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Boston City Hall, a shopping mall, a T-station, and a museum. 

Site Program Offerings

Old State House Self-Guided Visit

Visit the building at the center of Revolutionary Boston!  After an introduction from a museum educator, your group will explore the Old State House at its own pace, in a self-guided visit. Enjoy the Revolutionary Era artifacts and the historic chambers of the oldest public building in Boston.

The Boston Massacre: You be the Judge!

Using material from the original trial records, students role-play the trial of the nine British soldiers involved in the Boston Massacre. Students will become lawyers, witnesses, and jurors to explore this complex and, at times, contradictory historical event.

Witness to a Massacre

This program is designed to introduce students to the story of the Boston Massacre through primary source documents. In small groups, students will examine a newspaper article; eyewitness accounts of March 5, 1770; and Paul Revere’s famous engraving. A museum educator will guide students through the story of the Boston Massacre and will lead a discussion about using primary source documents to learn about the past and make connections to the 21st century.

The Old State House: Treasure or Trouble?

Preserving old buildings can a challenging task. So why do we save them?  Why do we like to collect old things? Students will consider the importance of historic preservation and learn about the Old State House’s remarkable story of rescue from destruction. Students will have the opportunity to put on a pair of gloves and get hands-on with historical materials taken from the building for preservation purposes. After the program, students will be able to explore the Old State House on their own.