Massachusetts State House

Massachusetts State House

Built in 1798, the "new" State House is located across from the Boston Common on the top of Beacon Hill. The land was once owned by Massachusetts first elected governor, John Hancock. Charles Bullfinch, the leading architect of the day, designed the building.

The dome, originally made out of wood shingles, is now sheathed in copper and covered by 23 karat gold which was added to prevent leaks into the State House.

In the House of Representatives chambers hangs a wooden codfish which is called the Sacred Cod. The Sacred Cod signifies the importance of the fishing industry to the Commonwealth. At the top of the golden dome sits a wooden pinecone which symbolizes logging in Boston during the 18th century.

Location:

Beacon Street at Park Street

MBTA: Park Street Station

Hours of Operation:Monday-Friday, 10 am to 4 pm
Tours:Must schedule tours in advance
Admission:Free
For More Information:

www.sec.state.ma.us/trs/trsidx.htm
or www.thefreedomtrail.org/visitor/state-house.html
or call (617) 727-3676

Content provided by The Freedom Trail Foundation

Video & Multimedia

  • New Freedom Trail Map Unveiled

    The new map is attached to the Citizens Bank on Cross Street between Hanover and Salem Streets in the North End.

    Watch Video

Exploring the Freedom Trail

  • Episode 1

    Boston Common, the Massachusetts State House, the Park Street Church and the Granary Burial Ground.

    Watch Video

  • Episode 2

    King's Chapel, The King's Chapel Burial Ground, the Benjamin Franklin Statue, the Boston Latin School and The Old Corner Bookstore.

    Watch Video

  • Episode 3

    The Old State House, the site of the Boston Massacre, and Faneuil Hall.

    Watch Video

  • Episode 4

    Paul Revere's House, The Old North Church, Copp's Hill Burial Ground, the USS Constitution, and the Bunker Hill Monument.

    Watch Video

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