History is for Everyone

MA, USA

Old State House

Government Building

The seat of British colonial government and later the Massachusetts legislature. The Declaration of Independence was read from its balcony on July 18, 1776.

What Happened Here

The Boston Massacre occurred just outside in 1770. The building housed both the colonial assembly and the royal governor—often at odds. After independence, it served as the state capitol until 1798.

Visiting Today

Address

206 Washington Street, Boston, MA 02109

Hours

Daily 10am-5pm

Admission

$12 adults, $10 seniors/students

Accessibility

Ground floor accessible; upper floors via stairs.

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