Freedom Trail Offers A Unique Way Of Connecting With And Reliving History
The Freedom Trail is an iconic tourist destination in Boston. It is a 2.5 mile long red brick path walking trail that leads to 16 of the most significant historic sites. The origin of the path is at Boston Commons which is a small park lying within the ruins of the city.
When Was Freedom Trail Established
The Freedom Trail was the brainchild of William Schofield, a local journalist. In 1951, he first suggested the idea of building a pedestrian trail that could link together important landmarks of the city. These landmarks under consideration were historical gems such as Paul Revere’s house, the Old North Church, the Old State House, and the Old South Meeting House. The concept was seconded by the then Boston Mayor John Hynes. Prominent citizens, including elected officials and non-profit organizations, came together to make the idea a reality.
The red line was added in 1958 to mark the trail prominently. In 1964, the Freedom Trail Foundation was established. It was dedicated to promoting the Freedom Trail and preserving the entire length of the trail.
The Freedom Trail Foundation Preservation Fund was floated for preservation and rehabilitation of Freedom Trail sites. The aim was to minimize the adverse effects caused to the ancient sites of Boston and America through natural wear and tear.
How To Walk The Trail
Visitors can choose to begin tour of the trail from the beginning, middle or the end of the track. The trail begins officially at Boston Common and then winds its way to the following sites:
- Massachusetts State House
- Park Street Church
- Granary Burying Ground
- Kings Chapel
- Kings Chapel Burying Ground
- Benjamin Franklin Statue
- Boston Latin School
- Old Corner Book Store
- Old South Meeting House
- Old State House
- Site of the Boston Massacre
- Faneuil Hall
- the Paul Revere House
- the Old North Church
- Copp’s Hill Burying Ground
- Bunker Hill Monument
- The USS Constitution
Each of the sites on the trail offers a highly informative and detailed insight into the rich past of the American Revolution. Visitors of ages can gain knowledge about people, places and the events of the colonial Boston as they travel deeper into the Freedom Trail path.
Fees For The Trail
Most of the sites on the Freedom Trail offer free entry. Voluntary donations and contributions are accepted by Churches to help them fund maintenance tasks. The King’s Chapel charges a small fee which is donated for concerts. A modest fee is charged for adults by Old South Meeting House, Old State House, and Paul Revere’s House charge modest fees for adults. Children, students and seniors can avail concessions.
An estimated three million people visit and walk through this famous trail every year.