Hal Marzell examines a statue of Paul Revere in the shadow of the steeple of Boston’s Old North Church. Photo credit: Terry Lee Marzell
Most teachers would agree that travel, in addition to being fun and intellectually stimulating, is one of the most meaningful learning experiences available for both themselves and their students. And summer vacation is a great opportunity for travel! Recently, my husband and I returned from a vacation to Boston, Massachusetts. There we visited many sites of historical significance. One of them was the Old North Church, a site of historical significance since our nation’s Colonial times.
Constructed in 1723, the Old North Church is the oldest standing church building in the city of Boston. The place is famous for its role in Paul Revere’s midnight ride, which took place on April 18, 1775. That night, the church’s sexton, Robert Newman, hung a signal lantern in the steeple which put Revere and other Colonial rebels on alert that British troops were on the move against the patriots. “One of by land, two if by sea,” says Henry Wadsworth Longfellow in his famous 1860 poem about the event. The event precipitated the Battles of Lexington and Concord, which launched the American Revolution.
The Old North Church is famous for its role in Paul Revere’s midnight ride, which precipitated the first battles of the Revolutionary War. Photo credit: Terry Lee Marzell
Today, the Old North Church is one of 17 stops along the Freedom Trail, a two-and-a-half mile path that traces landmarks related to the birth of our nation. You and your students could benefit greatly from a stroll along this trail, and if you are able to do so in person, and a stop at this church is an absolute must. The church is located at 193 Salem Street in Boston, and there is an entrance fee of $5 per person to enter. If you are unable to escort your class in person, you can encourage your students to consult this official website, The Old North Church, or direct them to this website developed by The Freedom Trail Foundation.
No matter how you choose to explore this historic location, I wish you happy learning!
