History is for Everyone

MA, USA

John Adams Courthouse

Government Building

Historic courthouse (1894) named for John Adams, who defended the British soldiers accused in the Boston Massacre—a principled stance that defined his career.

What Happened Here

Adams successfully argued that the soldiers acted in self-defense, securing acquittals for most. His commitment to rule of law, even for unpopular clients, influenced American legal tradition.

Visiting Today

Address

Pemberton Square, Boston, MA 02108

Hours

Court business hours

Admission

Free

Accessibility

Accessible.

Connected Events

May 1764
Faneuil Hall Town Meetings

Samuel Adams, John Adams

Aug 1765
Stamp Act Riots

Samuel Adams, Thomas Hutchinson

Mar 1770
Boston Massacre

Crispus Attucks, Captain Thomas Preston, John Adams, Samuel Adams

Dec 1773
Old South Meeting House Assembly

Samuel Adams, John Adams, Thomas Hutchinson

Dec 1773
Boston Tea Party

Samuel Adams, George Robert Twelves Hewes

Jun 1775
Battle of Bunker Hill

Dr. Joseph Warren, General Sir William Howe