Spring has arrived in Boston and with it, a new series of events at the Paul Revere House!
Our April Vacation events invite you and your family to put yourselves in the shoes of Paul Revere, his wife, Rachel, and their family and friends during the start of the American Revolution. What would you write to loved ones during times of extreme turmoil and stress? Would you be practical or romantic? Maybe both! In May we hope you will visit on Saturdays to discover some of the unique charms of life in Colonial Boston.
Unless otherwise noted, events are free with museum admission: adults $5.00, seniors and college students $4.50, children ages 5–17 $1.00. Members and North End residents admitted free at all times. Through April 14, the Revere House is open 9:30–4:15. Beginning April 15, the site is open daily 9:30-5:15. Closed on Mondays in January, February, and March.
April: Spring School Vacation Programs
April 15 – Rachel Revere: A Revolutionary Woman Saturday, 1:00pm, 1:45pm, 2:30pm
Who held the Revere family together after Paul set off on his Midnight Ride? Joan Gatturna takes on the role of Paul Revere’s second wife. Enjoy her dramatic account of a woman’s struggle to hold home and family together in a time of war, blockades, and shortages.
April 18 & 19 – “Your Own, Paul Revere”, 1:00pm-3:00pm
In honor of National Letter Writing Month, our Educators will highlight some of the many missives that have traveled to and from the Revere House over its long history. Stop by our drop-in station to see copies of letters written by the Reveres and their friends. Check out examples of vintage postcards sent by tourists in the 19th and 20th centuries; some postcards in our collection feature the Revere House, others showcase our North End neighborhood. Practice your quill pen writing skills and make a postcard of your own to send from the Revere House!
This program is included with admission to the house and reservations are NOT required.
April 20 – Midnight Ride Storytelling Program Thursday, 10:30am–12:00pm
Find out what really happened on Paul Revere’s ride! Separate the facts from the myths, then retrace Revere’s route from his home to the banks of the Charles River. Participants don hats and carry props as they go, taking on the roles of Paul and Rachel Revere, their children, British soldiers, rowers, John Hancock, and Samuel Adams.
Particularly appropriate for kids in grades K-4. Reservations are required and may be made by calling 617-523-2338. $6.00 for each adult and child age 5 and up.
April 21 – A Visit with Paul Revere Friday, 1:00pm-3:00pm
David Connor brings Boston’s favorite patriot vividly to life. Ask him about the details of his midnight ride, inquire about his 16 children, or engage him in conversation about his activities as a member of the Sons of Liberty.
April 22 – Patriot Fife and Drum Saturday, 1:00pm-3:00pm
Enjoy a lively concert of music that accompanied colonists as they marched, danced, wooed their beloveds, and waged war. David Vose and Sue Walko provide fascinating insight into each selection they perform.
May
May 6 – Gilding Demonstration Saturday, 1:00pm-3:00pm
Watch professional gilder Nancy Dick Atkinson apply gossamer thin sheets of gold leaf to wooden ornaments just as craftsmen did in Revere’s era.
May 13 – Glass Harmonica Concert Saturday, 1:00pm-3:00pm
Vera Meyer plays early American melodies on the intriguing instrument that Ben Franklin invented. The ethereal, haunting tones Meyer creates will mesmerize all who listen!
May 20 – Colonial Dance Tunes and Love Songs Saturday, 1:00pm-3:00pm
In the guise of itinerant musicians, Al Petty & Deirdre Sweeney perform popular 18th century tunes such as “Mr. Isaac’s Maggot” and “Jack’s Health” on the penny whistle, flute, fife, and other instruments.
May 27 – A Loyalist Perspective on the Revolution Saturday, 1:00pm, 1:45pm, 2:30pm
Hear a first-hand account of the abuses loyalists suffered at the hands of emboldened “patriots.” Michael Lepage takes on the role of Chief Justice Peter Oliver, brother of Andrew Oliver, a stamp collector.
All of the above events are also listed on the Community Calendar.
On the Freedom Trail in Boston’s historic North End, the Revere House was home to patriot and silversmith Paul Revere from 1770 to 1800. Built around 1680, the Revere House is the oldest building in downtown Boston. Visit paulreverehouse.org for more information.
