History repeats itself: The Boston Massacre reenactment

Printed from: https://newbostonpost.com/2016/03/03/history-repeats-itself-the-boston-massacre-reenactment/

BOSTON — Do your kids think history is boring? They won’t when it’s re-enacted before their very eyes!

Stop by the Old State House, at the intersection of Devonshire and State streets, this Saturday evening, March 5, for a reenactment of the legendary Boston Massacre.

(Via Google)

(Via Google)

March 5 marks the 246th anniversary of the event, in which British soldiers opened fire on protesting colonists, killing five. The shooting occurred five years before the start of the American Revolution and quickly became known as the Bloody Massacre in King Street (King Street was where the shooting took place; only later was it called the Boston Massacre), a propaganda attempt by colonists who early on sought to break ties with Britain.

Prior to the reenactment, audience members will hear speeches from 18th-century patriots, loyalists, and moderates. The event, presented by the Bostonian Society, is free and open to the public.

Busy Saturday evening? Then head downtown earlier in the day. At 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. the Old State House will offer an interactive program for children called “Little Redcoats and Little Bostonians” that will explore what Boston was like for British soldiers and colonists in the months leading up to the Massacre.

Paul Revere’s engraving of the Boston Massacre. (Wikimedia)

Paul Revere’s engraving of the Boston Massacre. (Wikimedia)

At 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., fans of courtroom drama can get their fix with “Trial of the Century,” a reenactment of the famous trial in which John Adams and Josiah Quincy defended the British soldiers accused of murdering innocent civilians on the fateful night of March 5, 1770.

Audience members can get in on the action as jurors or witnesses. Space is limited and tickets can be purchased at the museum admission desk.

If you can’t make it out Saturday, or are looking to check out some new theater, join the Bostonian Society at 1p.m. Sunday for a reading of “Blood on the Snow.” The play, written by Patrick Gabridge, and set and staged in the Council Chamber of the Old State House, tells the the story of the events of March 6, 1770 – the day after the massacre. The play opens in May, but visitors can get a sneak peak this weekend.

Can’t make it out this weekend, but still want to learn more about Revolutionary Boston? The Bostonian Society offers daily tours of the Old State House and sponsors Boston Massacre tours. Check them out here.