An Unfulfilled Promise: Desegregation and Busing in Boston

During the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s and 1970s, while much of the nation's attention was turned toward the South, Northern states and cities also grappled with how to respond to Black Americans' calls for equal rights and treatment. This included Boston, which was gripped in a contentious debate over the issue of segregation in the city's public schools. This debate ultimately produced a 1974 court case, known as Morgan v. Hennigan, which required the city to integrate its public schools through busing and whose consequences continue to reverberate to this day. In An Unfulfilled Promise: Desegregation and Busing in Boston, we invite you to explore the history around Morgan v. Hennigan and more. Learn about the context leading to the push for school desegregation and some of the key Bostonians on both sides of the school segregation question. Explore the role of the Old State House in this story, consider the challenges the Boston Public School system continues to face, and share your thoughts on the state of public schooling in America today. We welcome you to join us in commemorating the 50th anniversary of this key moment in Boston's long and storied history. Details: Open Daily at the Old State House Entrance is included in the price of admission.

Old State House

James Otis, Jr. and Mental Health in the Eighteenth Century:  A Virtual Exhibit Opening

Join Revolutionary Spaces and the <a href="https://www.nmmhproject.org/">National Museum of Mental Health Project</a> (NMMHP) at the Old State House for a special reception celebrating the launch of the virtual exhibit Patriot, Hero, Distracted Person: James Otis, Jr. and Mental Health in the Eighteenth Century.  Reception attendees will have the first chance to look at and interact with this new online exhibit that explores the life and impact of Massachusetts patriot James Otis, Jr. through the lens of his mental illness. You will also hear remarks by exhibit creators Paul Piwko, Kate LaPine, and Revolutionary Spaces Exhibits Manager Lucy Pollock. This program is free and open to the public thanks to the generous support of the <a href="https://lowellinstitute.org/">Lowell Institute</a>. Doors will open at 6:00 pm and the program will begin at 6:30 pm. Light snacks and refreshments will be provided. Seating for this event is very limited and admission cannot be guaranteed without pre-registration. In addition, all registrants will be required to reconfirm their attendance in writing 72 hours prior to the event in order to maintain their seat. If registrants do not confirm at that time, their place will be made available to someone on the waitlist.

Old State House Boston

King Hancock: A Man of Capital

Revolutionary Spaces, in partnership with the <a href="https://www.colonialsociety.org/">Colonial Society of Massachusetts</a>, is pleased to host a spirited discussion of John Hancock’s role as a mover and shaker in Massachusetts’ 18th century evolution from Colony to Commonwealth. Join us as we examine the Commonwealth’s first governor, the self-described “Man of Capital” and the veritable “King” of Massachusetts. Our featured guest for this special event will be Dr. Brooke Barbier, author of <a href="https://www.hup.harvard.edu/books/9780674271777">King Hancock: The Radical Influence of a Moderate Founding Father</a>. Promising an insightful and engaging look at the man who helped to finance the patriot movement on his way to becoming President of the Continental Congress and Governor of Massachusetts, this program will feature an exclusive exhibition of select items from the Revolutionary Spaces collection of John Hancock artifacts. This program is free and open to the public thanks to the generous support of the <a href="https://lowellinstitute.org/">Lowell Institute</a>. Doors will open at 6:30 pm and the program will begin at 7:00 pm. Light snacks and refreshments will be provided courtesy of <a href="https://www.democracybrewing.com/">Democracy Brewing</a>. Seating for this event is very limited and admission cannot be guaranteed without pre-registration. In addition, all registrants will be required to reconfirm their attendance in writing 72 hours prior to the event in order to maintain their seat. If registrants do not confirm at that time, their place will be made available to someone on the waitlist. The first 50 registered attendees will receive complimentary copies of the newly-released paperback edition of Dr. Barbier’s book.&nbsp; About the Speaker&nbsp; Dr. Brooke Barbier: Brooke Barbier is a public historian with a PhD in American history from Boston College. She is the author of King Hancock: The Radical Influence of a Moderate Founding Father, which won the 2024 New England Historical Association James P. Hanlan Book Award, as well as the New England Society Nonfiction Book of the Year Award, and  Boston in the American Revolution: A Town versus an Empire. She founded and operates Ye Olde Tavern Tours, a popular guided outing along Boston’s renowned Freedom Trail.&nbsp;

Sensory-Friendly Mornings at Revolutionary Spaces

Revolutionary Spaces is pleased to introduce Sensory-Friendly Mornings at the Old State House—special early open hours designed for visitors of all ages who benefit from a quieter, more supportive museum experience. With adjustments to lighting and sound, limited attendance, and hands-on activities, these mornings offer a welcoming way to explore Boston’s revolutionary past! Special Activities In addition to offering calm and comfortable access to all of our <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/explore/exhibits/#OldStateHouse">exhibits</a> at the Old State House, guests can enjoy the following special activities:<ul><li>Stamp Act activities in the <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/visit/sensory-friendly-mornings/...">Colony to Commonwealth</a> exhibit</li><li>Conservation-themed coloring pages in the Lion and Unicorn annex</li><li>Paper boat making, inspired by the <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/explore/monthly-spotlight-series/">Liberty Affair</a>, in the <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/explore/historic-rooms/council-chamber/">Council Chamber</a> </li></ul>To support a sensory-friendly experience, we will also provide:<ul><li>Limited admission to a maximum of 20 guests</li><li>Light classical music in the museum store</li><li>White noise in gallery spaces</li><li>Lighting adjustments in select galleries</li></ul>Purchase Tickets Admission is FREE for all visitors ages 18 and under and <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/support/membership/">Revolutionary Spaces members</a>. Adults tickets are $5. Members must present their digital membership cards upon arrival. Space is limited to 20 guests so reserve your spot today! Tickets can be purchased here: <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.thundertix.com/events/249019">https://revolutionaryspaces.thundertix.com/events/249019</a> Preparing for Your Visit Revolutionary Spaces is committed to creating inclusive spaces where all visitors can connect with the people, ideas, and events that shaped our nation. Please review the following additional information to help you best prepare for your visit. If you have any questions or concerns, please email us at <a href="mailto:booking@revolutionaryspaces.org">booking@revolutionaryspaces.org</a>. <ul><li>Guests who have purchased tickets may arrive at the Old State House anytime between 9:00am and 10:00am. We recommend allotting at least 30 minutes to explore the museum. Please note that the museum opens to the public at 10:00am.</li><li>We ask that you observe our <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/visit/museum-policies/">Museum Policies</a> to ensure all guests have a pleasant experience.</li><li>The Old State House is currently not handicap accessible. Please review our <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/visit/accessibility/">Accessibility Information</a> to learn more.</li><li>The Museum Store at the Old State House will be open during Sensory-Friendly Mornings.</li><li>The <a href="https://venue.kulturecity.org/venues/revolutionary-spaces-old-state-house">Old State House</a> is a KultureCity Sensory Inclusive Certified Venue. Click <a href="https://www.kulturecity.org/">here</a> to learn more.</li><li>All sales are final. Exchanges may be honored if space is available on another date.</li></ul>Reserve your spot to join us for a thoughtful and engaging morning of history!

Revolutionary Spaces is pleased to introduce Sensory-Friendly Mornings at the Old State House—special early open hours designed for visitors of all ages who benefit from a quieter, more supportive museum experience. With adjustments to lighting and sound, limited attendance, and hands-on activities, these mornings offer a welcoming way to explore Boston’s revolutionary past! Upcoming Dates <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.thundertix.com/orders/new?performance_id=3170764">Friday, July 25 | 9:00–10:00 AM</a> <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.thundertix.com/orders/new?performance_id=3170765">Friday, August 22 | 9:00–10:00 AM</a> Special Activities In addition to offering calm and comfortable access to all of our <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/explore/exhibits/#OldStateHouse">exhibits</a> at the Old State House, guests can enjoy the following special activities:<ul><li>Stamp Act activities in the <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/visit/sensory-friendly-mornings/...">Colony to Commonwealth</a> exhibit</li><li>Conservation-themed coloring pages in the Lion and Unicorn annex</li><li>Paper boat making, inspired by the <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/explore/monthly-spotlight-series/">Liberty Affair</a>, in the <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/explore/historic-rooms/council-chamber/">Council Chamber</a> </li></ul>To support a sensory-friendly experience, we will also provide:<ul><li>Limited admission to a maximum of 20 guests</li><li>Light classical music in the museum store</li><li>White noise in gallery spaces</li><li>Lighting adjustments in select galleries</li></ul>Purchase Tickets Admission is FREE for all visitors ages 18 and under and <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/support/membership/">Revolutionary Spaces members</a>. Adults tickets are $5. Members must present their digital membership cards upon arrival. Space is limited to 20 guests so reserve your spot today! Tickets can be purchased here: <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.thundertix.com/events/249019">https://revolutionaryspaces.thundertix.com/events/249019</a> Preparing for Your Visit Revolutionary Spaces is committed to creating inclusive spaces where all visitors can connect with the people, ideas, and events that shaped our nation. Please review the following additional information to help you best prepare for your visit. If you have any questions or concerns, please email us at <a href="mailto:booking@revolutionaryspaces.org">booking@revolutionaryspaces.org</a>. <ul><li>Guests who have purchased tickets may arrive at the Old State House anytime between 9:00am and 10:00am. We recommend allotting at least 30 minutes to explore the museum. Please note that the museum opens to the public at 10:00am.</li><li>We ask that you observe our <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/visit/museum-policies/">Museum Policies</a> to ensure all guests have a pleasant experience.</li><li>The Old State House is currently not handicap accessible. Please review our <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/visit/accessibility/">Accessibility Information</a> to learn more.</li><li>The Museum Store at the Old State House will be open during Sensory-Friendly Mornings.</li><li>The <a href="https://venue.kulturecity.org/venues/revolutionary-spaces-old-state-house">Old State House</a> is a KultureCity Sensory Inclusive Certified Venue. Click <a href="https://www.kulturecity.org/">here</a> to learn more.</li><li>All sales are final. Exchanges may be honored if space is available on another date.</li></ul>Reserve your spot to join us for a thoughtful and engaging morning of history!

Revolutionary Spaces is pleased to introduce Sensory-Friendly Mornings at the Old State House—special early open hours designed for visitors of all ages who benefit from a quieter, more supportive museum experience. With adjustments to lighting and sound, limited attendance, and hands-on activities, these mornings offer a welcoming way to explore Boston’s revolutionary past! Upcoming Dates <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.thundertix.com/orders/new?performance_id=3170763">Friday, June 27 | 9:00–10:00 AM</a> <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.thundertix.com/orders/new?performance_id=3170764">Friday, July 25 | 9:00–10:00 AM</a> <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.thundertix.com/orders/new?performance_id=3170765">Friday, August 22 | 9:00–10:00 AM</a> Special Activities In addition to offering calm and comfortable access to all of our <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/explore/exhibits/#OldStateHouse">exhibits</a> at the Old State House, guests can enjoy the following special activities:<ul><li>Stamp Act activities in the <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/visit/sensory-friendly-mornings/...">Colony to Commonwealth</a> exhibit</li><li>Conservation-themed coloring pages in the Lion and Unicorn annex</li><li>Paper boat making, inspired by the <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/explore/monthly-spotlight-series/">Liberty Affair</a>, in the <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/explore/historic-rooms/council-chamber/">Council Chamber</a></li></ul>To support a sensory-friendly experience, we will also provide:<ul><li>Limited admission to a maximum of 20 guests</li><li>Light classical music in the museum store</li><li>White noise in gallery spaces</li><li>Lighting adjustments in select galleries</li></ul>Purchase Tickets Admission is FREE for all visitors ages 18 and under and <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/support/membership/">Revolutionary Spaces members</a>. Adults tickets are $5. Members must present their digital membership cards upon arrival. Space is limited to 20 guests so reserve your spot today! Tickets can be purchased here: <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.thundertix.com/events/249019">https://revolutionaryspaces.thundertix.com/events/249019</a> Preparing for Your Visit Revolutionary Spaces is committed to creating inclusive spaces where all visitors can connect with the people, ideas, and events that shaped our nation. Please review the following additional information to help you best prepare for your visit. If you have any questions or concerns, please email us at <a href="mailto:booking@revolutionaryspaces.org">booking@revolutionaryspaces.org</a>. <ul><li>Guests who have purchased tickets may arrive at the Old State House anytime between 9:00am and 10:00am. We recommend allotting at least 30 minutes to explore the museum. Please note that the museum opens to the public at 10:00am.</li><li>We ask that you observe our <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/visit/museum-policies/">Museum Policies</a> to ensure all guests have a pleasant experience.</li><li>The Old State House is currently not handicap accessible. Please review our <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/visit/accessibility/">Accessibility Information</a> to learn more.</li><li>The Museum Store at the Old State House will be open during Sensory-Friendly Mornings.</li><li>The <a href="https://venue.kulturecity.org/venues/revolutionary-spaces-old-state-house">Old State House</a> is a KultureCity Sensory Inclusive Certified Venue. Click <a href="https://www.kulturecity.org/">here</a> to learn more.</li><li>All sales are final. Exchanges may be honored if space is available on another date.</li></ul>Reserve your spot to join us for a thoughtful and engaging morning of history!

April Family Hours at Old South Meeting House

Learn more about America's first spies during the 250th anniversary of Paul Revere's ride and April school vacation week! Stop by Old South Meeting House from 10am-3pm for <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/explore/family-hours/">Family Hours</a> as we uncover the secret spy mission behind the infamous Midnight Ride or help General Washington free Boston from British control with our <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/educate/spy-quest/">Spy Quest</a> scavenger hunt. Enjoy music, coloring, books, dress up, and a variety of daily crafts, including: Friday, April 18 → Tin Lantern &amp; Tricorn Hat Making Craft Tuesday, April 22 → Toy Horse &amp; Unicorn Craft Wednesday, April 23 → Tricorn Hat Making Craft Thursday, April 24 → Lantern Suncatcher Craft Friday, April 25 → Tricorn Hat Making Craft Family hours are free with joint museum admission. Plus, children ages 12 and under receive free admission on Friday 4/18 and Monday 4/21 through Sunday 4/27. The History of Children's Hours at Old South Meeting House: In 1883, Mary Hemenway spearheaded an ambitious educational program as part of the Old South Association’s mission. This program, which included essay contests, holiday ceremonies, child fairs, and musical offerings became known as Children's Hours. Old South Lectures for Young People were also established in the summer of 1883 "as a means of promoting a more serious and intelligent attention to historical studies, especially studies in American history among the young people in Boston.” Today, the Old South Meeting House continues to educate the young people of Boston and remember Mary Hemenway's mission through our Family Hours programming.

Old South Meeting House

An Evening with Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr.

Revolutionary Spaces is pleased to be partnering with the <a href="https://supremecourthistory.org/">Supreme Court Historical Society</a> for the premiere Boston screening of the Society’s film on the life and times of Boston’s own Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr., acclaimed jurist, scholar, and Civil War veteran. Originally performed at Arena Stage in Washington, D.C. in 2023 to a sold out audience, <a href="https://supremecourthistory.org/films/">Holmes: The Film</a> showcases the famously long-serving U.S. Supreme Justice as a man shaped by his times, upbringing, and experiences. In turn, he helped shape constitutional law, public policy, and society as a whole by virtue of his principles and the jurisprudence that gave them life and lasting significance. Join us at Old South Meeting House on Thursday, April 17, for this 60-minute historical drama that depicts Holmes looking back at his life on the battlefield and the bench on his 90th birthday in 1931. Following the film, engage in a compelling conversation with our evening’s panelists—retired Supreme Judicial Court Associate Justice Robert Cordy, Boston lawyer RJ Lyman, and the film’s screenwriter, Todd Peppers. Moderator Ed O’Connell, Revolutionary Spaces Civic Engagement Manager, will introduce the film and host the post-film discussion, followed by an audience Q&amp;A. An Evening with Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr. is free and open to the public thanks in part to the generous support of the <a href="https://lowellinstitute.org/">Lowell Institute</a>. Doors will open at 6:00 PM and the program will begin at 6:30 PM. Light snacks and refreshments will be provided.&nbsp;

“Boston’s Oldest Buildings and Where to Find Them”: A Conversation with Joseph Bagley and Robert Allison

Join us in conversation with City of Boston Archaeologist Joseph Bagley, author of Boston’s Oldest Buildings and Where to Find Them, and acclaimed local historian Robert Allison as we examine Boston’s 50 oldest buildings. Guided by Professor Allison’s unmatched knowledge of Boston’s historic past in tandem with the latest edition of Bagley’s highly engaging look at the city’s brick-and-mortar beginnings, this exploration of Boston’s early history presents a waypoint on the road to its upcoming 400th anniversary. Bagley and Allison will lead audience members on a centuries-long journey through maps, photographs, and an exploration of the city’s historic preservation movement. The conversation begins with the program’s venue, the Old South Meeting House. Saved from destruction by a small cadre of Boston women—engaged in what is now remembered as only the second such act of historic preservation in our nation’s history—the Old South Meeting House provides the perfect setting for this compelling program. Presented in partnership with the<a href="https://www.wgbh.org/forum-network/partners/ford-hall-forum"> Ford Hall Forum at Suffolk University</a>, <a href="https://brandeisuniversitypress.com/">Brandeis University Press</a>, and <a href="https://www.wgbh.org/forum-network">GBH Forum Network</a>, Revolutionary Spaces is proud to host this special event, which is free and open to the public thanks to the generous support of the <a href="https://lowellinstitute.org/">Lowell Institute</a>. Doors will open at 6:00 pm and the program will begin at 6:30 pm.

Politics IRL: Debating the Legal Voting Age

Come bear witness and join the fray at this special mid-day program, Politics IRL: Debating the Legal Voting Age. Gen Z voters will take the stage at Boston’s longtime bastion of free speech and civic action, the Old South Meeting House, as they frame, discuss, and debate the question of whether the legal voting age should be lowered—locally, statewide, and/or nationally. Engaging in this discussion alongside them will be former members of Congress, local lawmakers, and you, the audience! As is the tradition for Revolutionary Spaces events, the audience will be encouraged to clap, thump, stomp, and “Huzzah!” their approval for the arguments presented—with respectful “Fies!” in opposition always in the mix—followed by a lively Q &amp; A. GBH digital producer Alexi Cohan will serve as debate moderator.  Co-sponsored by <a href="https://www.wgbh.org/news">GBH News</a>, <a href="https://www.suffolk.edu/">Suffolk University</a> and its <a href="https://www.suffolk.edu/news-features/news/2020/02/28/16/12/congress-to-campus">Congress to Classroom</a> program, and Revolutionary Spaces, Politics IRL: Debating the Legal Voting Age is free and open to the public thanks in part to the generous support of the <a href="https://lowellinstitute.org/">Lowell Institute</a>. This program will be recorded by  <a href="https://www.wgbh.org/forum-network">GBH Forum Network</a> for later viewing. Doors will open at 12:00 pm and the program will begin at 12:30 pm.  About the Speakers  Moderator: Alexi Cohan, Program Moderator Alexi Cohan is a digital producer for GBH News specializing in politics, digital video, and special projects. She also reports stories for GBH News' website and radio, and is the lead producer on Politics IRL, a video series centering Gen Z voters. Before coming to GBH, Alexi was a reporter at The Boston Herald covering health and education. Alexi is a graduate of Hofstra University, where she studied journalism and Spanish. Alexi is from East Longmeadow, Massachusetts, and currently lives in the Boston area.

Impassioned Destruction: Politics, Vandalism, and the Boston Tea Party 

On December 16, 1773, radical Bostonians threw 340 crates of tea into Boston Harbor to protest what they saw as unfair taxation by the British Parliament. Known today as the “Boston Tea Party,” the event known to contemporaries as “the destruction of the tea” was highly divisive, drawing criticism from figures like Benjamin Franklin and George Washington. It would take almost a century for this event to transform from an embarrassing act of property destruction to a celebrated national origin story.   The Boston Tea Party was not the first instance of property destruction in what would become the United States, and it certainly was not the last. Explore how Americans have used vandalism as a tool of protest throughout the centuries in Impassioned Destruction: Politics, Vandalism, and the Boston Tea Party. Open daily at the Old State House, this new exhibit invites visitors to consider other acts of property destruction in the context of the Tea Party. When, if ever, do you believe it is justified to destroy property in the name of a cause? Impassioned Destruction was made possible with support from <a href="https://www.meetboston.com/">MeetBoston</a>. Funding was also provided in part by <a href="https://www.americanacorner.com/">Americana Corner</a> for fabrication of exhibit features related to the 18th and early 19th Century, including the Boston Tea Party, the Stamp Act Riots, and the Charlestown Ursuline Convent Riots in 1834. Boston Tea Party 250th Anniversary This year, Revolutionary Spaces is commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Boston Tea Party, which took place at Old South Meeting House on December 16, 1773. This exhibit is made possible through the generous support of our Boston Tea Party 250th Anniversary Commemoration Transformational Partner: Meet Boston Foundation. Open daily at <a href="https://www.revolutionaryspaces.org/old-state-house/">Old State House</a>. Entrance is included in the cost of admission. <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.thundertix.com/events/187090">Buy Tickets</a> now!

Boston Tea Party 251st Anniversary Commemoration

Commemorate the 251st anniversary of the Boston Tea Party with a world-class reenactment of the Meeting of the Body of the People at Old South Meeting House! Experience this pivotal moment in our nation’s history as you watch the vigorous debate that led to the destruction of tea on December 16, 1773. Join Revolutionary Spaces in the room where it all happened—Old South Meeting House! As the largest indoor gathering space in colonial Boston, this building hosted a number of meetings about what to do with the East India Tea Company tea sitting in Boston Harbor waiting to be unloaded and taxed. On that fateful night, a purported 5,000 men gathered for this final meeting about the controversial tea tax, resulting in Samuel Adams giving the signal that would start the Boston Tea Party. Frustrated and angry, colonists marched to Griffin’s Wharf and dumped 342 chests of tea into the Boston Harbor—a major act of defiance to British rule over the colonists and a spark for the American Revolution. All tickets are general admission and seating for the reenactment is first come, first serve. We cannot guarantee that groups will sit together. Your ticket also includes FREE admission to both of Revolutionary Spaces’ sites, the Old State House and Old South Meeting House, from Saturday, December 14th through Monday, December 16th (a $15 value)! Be sure to explore our exhibit <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/explore/exhibits/impassioned-destruction/">Impassioned Destruction: Politics, Vandalism, and the Boston Tea Party</a> for a more in depth exploration of the impact this historic event had on other moments throughout history. Ticket Prices: Adults (18-64): $40 Seniors (65 and older): $30 Youth (13-17): $30 Members: $25 Children (12 and under): $20 Group Sales: Attending with a large group? Revolutionary Spaces offers a 30% discount on group sales of 10 or more people. This event is perfect for family outings, school field trips, and other groups. Email <a href="mailto:Booking@RevolutionarySpaces.org">Booking@RevolutionarySpaces.org</a> to process your order and take advantage of this great deal! Details: Monday, December 16, 2024 Doors Open: 5:00 PM Reenactment Begins: 6:15 PM Location: Old South Meeting House 310 Washington Street Boston, MA 02108

October Family Hours: Halloween History

Join Revolutionary Spaces for Halloween History Family Hours at the Old South Meeting House! From 10:00 am to 3:00 pm on Saturday, October 19 and from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm on Thursday, October 31st, enjoy a make-your-own costume hat and mask craft station. We will also have a coloring station, historical dress-up, music, books, games, and more!&nbsp; Inspired by Children's Hours held at Old South Meeting House from the late 19th century through the early 20th century, join Revolutionary Spaces for this modern take on family fun at our historic sites and museums! Plan your visit now to the Old South Meeting House and the Old State House to spend a history-filled day with history enthusiasts of all ages, including themed games, crafts, scavenger hunts, gallery talks, music, and more! Family Hours activities are included in the price of general admission to the Old South Meeting House. Admission to the Old State House and Old South Meeting House historic sites and museums, plus Family Hours, is $8 for children ages 6-12 and FREE for children 5 and under. For more information, visit: <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/explore/family-hours/">https://revolutionaryspaces.org/explore/family-hours/</a> or contact <a href="mailto:booking@RevolutionarySpaces.org">booking@RevolutionarySpaces.org</a>. The History of Children's Hours at Old South Meeting House: In 1883, Mary Hemenway spearheaded an ambitious educational program as part of the Old South Association’s mission. This program, which included essay contests, holiday ceremonies, child fairs, and musical offerings became known as Children's Hours. Old South Lectures for Young People were also established in the summer of 1883 "as a means of promoting a more serious and intelligent attention to historical studies, especially studies in American history among the young people in Boston.” Today, the Old South Meeting House continues to educate the young people of Boston and remember Mary Hemenway's mission through our Family Hours programming.

Old South Meeting House AFTER PARTY

Have you ever partied in an 18th-century building after dark? This October, we're opening the doors—and the bar—for an exclusive After Party at Old South Meeting House! This is your chance to explore one of Boston’s most iconic landmarks after hours. It’ll be like your favorite House Party but with more ghosts, fewer powdered wigs, and absolutely no one to tell you to “behave." This is more than just a party; it’s a unique opportunity to experience Boston’s rich history in a fresh, engaging way, all while supporting Revolutionary Spaces. Plus, it’s a chance to mix and mingle with friends and neighbors who love their city as much as you do. Grab your discounted After Party tickets now for a night of fun, history, and community—and bring other party people! The After Party is part of our House Party fundraiser going on earlier in the night! Learn more: <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/house-party/">https://revolutionaryspaces.org/house-party/</a> What's Happening:<ul><li>Dance &amp; Lounge: Expect a lively atmosphere with music and dancing! Unwind in lounge areas and experience the awe of being in the room where history was made.</li><li>Ghost Stories &amp; Spooky Fun: Step into Boston’s eerie past with captivating ghost stories and a touch of macabre in a historic setting. </li><li>Open Bar with Snacks &amp; Dessert: Sip on past-meets-present cocktails and mocktails at a full open bar with craft beers and wines. Enjoy treats that are way better than those late-night snacks from your college days.</li><li>Explore the Historic Space: Wander the Old South Meeting House after hours and discover its hidden nooks and historical charm.</li><li>Eerie Elegant Attire: Embrace your dark and stylish side and get ready to dance among the light and shadows of history. Come dressed to impress for the most captivating after-hours museum party of the season.</li></ul>This is more than just a party; it’s a unique opportunity to experience Boston’s rich history in a fresh, engaging way, all while supporting Revolutionary Spaces. Plus, it’s a chance to mix and mingle with friends and neighbors who love their city as much as you do.

S22: conversations

Wondering what to do in Boston? Places to eat? Free activities? Good for a group? Date night spot? Girls night out? The best things to do? Ask Joyraft!

Best places to go in Boston? Things to do? Places to eat?

Questions & answers about things to do in Boston

Recs 💬

Community recs 💬

S4: top picks

The most fun, cool and unique things to do in Boston. Can’t miss events, shows and experiences. Concerts, restaurants, bars, free things in Boston and beyond.

The most fun and cool events happening around Boston

Hot and new things to do in Boston

Hot & new

Hot & new 🔥

S11: happening this weekend

What to do in Boston this weekend? From festivals, concerts, performances, free events, screenings and more, Joyraft has the best things to do in Boston.

25+ things to do in Boston/Cambridge/Somerville this weekend

Things to do in Boston this weekend

This wknd

This weekend for you

S21: roundups

Our top picks: outdoor dining, free events, spring festivals, best bars, upcoming concerts, museum parties - the latest in and around Boston.  Slug: joyraft-top-picks-best-things-to-do-boston-ma

Top picks of the best things to do in and around Boston

Joyraft picks: Boston’s best things to do

Roundups ⭐️

Curated by Joyraft ⭐️

S28: calendar experiences

This week in Boston

This week in Boston 📆

This week 📆

S20: c+d experiences

Discover new, unique events and experiences happening in and around Boston. Perfect for date night, good for a group or with a friend. Be the first to know.

The newest events happening in and around Boston

The newest events on Joyraft

Just added

Just added to Joyraft

S16: editor picks

The most unique and can’t miss things coming up in Boston / Cambridge / Somerville and beyond. Festivals, food, drinks, fairs, concerts, art and free activities.

Unique and Can’t Miss Things to Do in Boston

Can’t-miss things to do in Boston 🚨

Can't-miss things to do 🚨

S2 (A): top experiences

The most popular things to do on Joyraft. Concerts, restaurants, bars, events, parties, openings, kid friendly, date ideas, free things in Boston and beyond.

Top 20 things to do in Boston

Top 20: Joyraft’s most popular

Top 20

Top 20 on Joyraft

S3 (A): trending experiences

Discover can’t miss events and things to do in Boston. The most fun, unique and cool events coming to the Boston area this spring and summer.

The hottest events happening in Boston

Trending events on Joyraft

Trending 📈

S17: interest based

Your guide to everything free in and around Boston. From events, to fairs, to festivals, to outdoors. Joyraft has all the free events happening near you.

100+ free things to do in Boston and beyond

Free things to do in Boston

Free things to do

S19: interest based

Kid-friendly events in Boston

S18: interest based

Where to eat and drink in Boston? Joyraft has Boston’s newest bars, restaurants and specials. Drinks and pre fixe dinner menus. Cambridge & Somerville too.

Where

joyraft.host13107

Experiences

An Unfulfilled Promise: Desegregation and Busing in Boston

James Otis, Jr. and Mental Health in the Eighteenth Century: A Virtual Exhibit Opening

King Hancock: A Man of Capital

Sensory-Friendly Mornings at Revolutionary Spaces

Sensory-Friendly Mornings at Revolutionary Spaces

Sensory-Friendly Mornings at Revolutionary Spaces

April Family Hours at Old South Meeting House

An Evening with Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr.

“Boston’s Oldest Buildings and Where to Find Them”: A Conversation with Joseph Bagley and Robert Allison

Politics IRL: Debating the Legal Voting Age

Impassioned Destruction: Politics, Vandalism, and the Boston Tea Party

Boston Tea Party 251st Anniversary Commemoration

October Family Hours: Halloween History

Old South Meeting House AFTER PARTY

October Family Hours: Halloween History