Our adventures in Boston have started on the road to the revolution. Our day today began at the Old State House- what a beautiful building! I loved listening to Dr. Allison as he discussed the Boston Massacre, and included many details I hadn’t heard before- it was very interesting. How fitting that this discussion took place just steps away from where the actual Massacre happened. I also really enjoyed the activity that Sue Goganian facilitated on the Massacre. I have had my students act out the picture of the engraving, taking on different people in the picture and then answering questions as if they were that person; this is another great activity I think I can add to that. The more hands on I can make what I teach them the more it sticks in my students’ minds. I also like having them portray both sides. In addition to seeing it through the eyes of the colonists, it is also important to understand what the redcoats were going through.
It was nice to get out to Faneuil Hall for lunch and do a little exploring around the city! Later, when we got to go inside Faneuil Hall, I couldn’t believe how beautiful it was, it was hard to take it all in.
After lunch we went to the Old South Meeting House. This was another beautiful building! I love being able to be inside these buildings, it helps me to picture in my mind what it looked like as the colonists were making the decision to revolt against England. I really enjoyed the role playing activity, I think this will be great to do with my students. It’s hard to believe all the great ideas, pictures, handouts, and books we are getting to take back with us to use in the classroom.
Finally, we got to venture out on the Freedom Trail. Even though we were winding our way through a modern city, you could still get the feeling of a city on the brink of a revolution. The old buildings, churches, and gravesites intermixed within the city were aweinspiring! We got to see the gravesites of some of the most famous people in our early history. I can’t wait to continue this tomorrow!
To end the day today we rode the ferry back to Salem from Boston Harbor-what a beautiful and breathtaking site! I recommend this to everyone! Seeing the outline of the city as you sail away is quite a view you won’t forget.
