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Paul Revere's House

Paul Revere's House was home to the legendary Bostonian when he went on his famous midnight ride to warn that the British were coming. The house had some rough years, but it was restored and now welcomes visitors to see where and how silversmith Revere and his family lived, with authentic artifacts.

History

Virtually everyone knows the story of Paul Revere's midnight ride to alert the colonists that the British Redcoats were coming via the water, leading to the start of the Revolutionary War. Paul Revere's house still stands in the same spot where he lived in colonial days at 19 North Square. Built around 1680, it's the oldest building in Downtown Boston and a popular site for visitors who want to connect with a true piece of American history. Revere, a silversmith by trade, lived in the house between 1770 and 1800. He headed off on his famous ride on April 18, 1775.

Paul Revere's house was sold in 1800 and converted into a building for commercial use, with shops and offices taking over the ground floor. A wide variety of businesses operated out of the historic home over the years, including a cigar factory, candy shop, fruit and vegetable store, and even a bank. The upstairs remained residential and over the years housed countless Irish, Jewish, and Italian immigrants throughout the 19th century.

John P. Reynolds Jr., Paul Revere's great-grandson, brought the building back into the family in 1902 to prevent its demolition. The doors to the museum have been open ever since, and the house has remained an iconic American tourist site and piece of history. It still welcomes visitors today, with the Association still actively working to preserve it so future generations can enjoy it as well. It's one of the stops on the Freedom Trail of historic sights associated with the American Revolution.

Authenticity

Paul Revere's house looks much the same today as it did back in the late 17th century. A third-story front extension that was added in the years after it was sold was removed during renovations, and 90 percent of the remaining building is original. Two of the upstairs chambers are even furnished with items provided by the Revere family.

Artifacts

The house contains many historically significant artifacts, including an impressive 900 pound bell, a bolt from the USS Constitution, and a mortar, all of which were crafted by Paul Revere and Sons. The USS Constitution itself, and a museum devoted to the ship, can also be seen on the Freedom Trail.

Visiting the House

Paul Revere's house is regularly open to visits, with a modest admission charge. Exact hours, which vary seasonally, are listed on the house's website. You can take a self-guided tour, learning about the home, its history, and artifacts by illustrated text panels in strategic locations. Interpreters are stationed inside to bring the information to life.

Many special events take place throughout the year, including demonstrations of what life was like in colonial Boston for Revere and his family. Some of these events, which are listed on the house's website, require advance reservations because the number of attendees is limited. At certain times, you might also get to see a live demonstration of crafts or trades from colonial times, hear a storyteller, or even meet an interpreter playing Paul himself.

The house also has a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs of your visit, including books, DVD, household goods, and toys.

The Pierce-Hichborn House was built in 1711 and was owned by Paul Revere's boat builder cousin, is across the courtyard from Paul Revere's House. It is also run by the Paul Revere Memorial Association and is open to visitors for an additional admission charge.

For a bit of history about who Paul Revere was, take a look!

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Paul Revere's House