Charlestown was the first capital of the Massachusetts Bay Colony before the Puritans crossed over to Boston in 1630. In 1775, Paul Revere crossed over to Charlestown to begin his famous Midnight Ride, the colonists stood up to the British army at the Battle of Bunker Hill, and Charlestown was burned to the ground.

painting of the View of the Attack on Bunker's Hill with the Burning of Charlestown

General Howe orders the burning of Charlestown to deprive Colonial snipers cover during the Battle of Bunker Hill. A British battery on Copp's Hill bombarded the town across the harbor until it was destroyed.

View of the Attack on Bunker's Hill with the Burning of Charlestown, June 17, 1775. Engraving by Lodge after Millar. Image courtesy Library of Congress.

Tour this urban village founded in 1628 that focuses on the early Puritan settlement, the Bunker Hill monument, and many of its distinguished citizens which have included John Harvard and Samuel Morse.

Boston By Foot Brochure listing Boston tours in 2009 season Boston By Foot Guided Walking Tours For Boston By Foot Docents. Explore Boston on a Boston By Foot walking tour. The Dark Side of Boston. Exploring the Charles River Basin.