Best known for his midnight ride to alert the American militia in April 1775 to the approach of British forces before the battles of Lexington and Concord, Paul Revere is one of the most notable patriots of the American Revolutionary War. That notoriety is evident in Paul Revere Square, which is built upon the literal and figurative legacy that is associated with what Paul Revere meant for the city and the entire country.
From the Paul Revere House to the Salutation Tavern
Built around 1680, the Paul Revere House, owned by Revere from 1770-1800, is the oldest remaining structure in downtown Boston and also the only official Freedom Trail historic site that is a home. It is located within walking distance of Paul Revere Square, which features a notable monument and many markers that are associated with Revere and his numerous contemporaries.
A marker commemorates the signal lanterns that Paul Revere displayed in the nearby church to warn the country of the march of the British in 1775. Markers throughout the square are dedicated to people like William Dawes, Joseph Warren and Edmund Hart. Other markers commemorate establishments like the Salutation Tavern, which was opened in 1662 and stood on the nearby northeast corner. It was the meeting place of the committee that planned the Boston Tea Party.
The Paul Revere Mall was established in 1933, while the equestrian statue of Paul Revere was unveiled in 1940. It was erected by the trustees from the income of a fund created by George Robert White who procured in his will “for creating works of public utility and beauty.” The monument was dedicated to the enjoyment of the community and the memory of the men and women of the north end who defined the city of Boston.
Paul Revere Square frequently hosts events and gathering for the community, highlighting what it can mean to celebrate the history of an area while connecting with a contemporary community. In doing so, the Square has come to highlight how history and community can come together to make such a powerful impact on an area in the present and future.
Historical Legacy and Community Engagement
The presence of the Paul Revere House as well as the Freedom Trail has undoubtedly driven the popularity and notoriety of Paul Revere Square. However, the way in which the Square highlights the history of the area while also enabling plenty of space for the contemporary community to gather for events that range from weddings to school recesses showcases what it means to see spaces utilized for audiences of all eras.
