Short Biography
Paul Revere was one of the key figures of the revolutionary movement in New England colonies. He was also a craftsman known for his works of silver. Born on December 22, 1734 in Boston Revere first became famous for his craftsmanship. His work was well known in Boston, especially silverware and tea sets. His other well-known specialty was the engraved printing plates.
When revolutionary mood became growing in Boston, Revere became involved as an active member of the Boston’s Sons of Liberty chapter lead by Samuel Adams. He also used proceeds from the trade to finance revolutionary activities. One of his most publicized engraving works where his trade and his political views crossed, was the representation of the Boston Massacre.
In 1773 Revere participated in the Boston Tea Party when members of the Sons of Liberty climbed three ships anchored in Boston Harbor and dumped tea chests into the ocean to protest British taxation. But it was the famous Midnight Ride of April 18, 1775 for which the Boston silversmith became known to anyone even vaguely familiar with the American Revolution history. The historic event occurred when Revere and two other couriers rode from Boston to Lexington to warn patriots about the arrival of the British troops. The battles of Lexington and Concord then became know as the first battles fought for American independence.
During the Revolutionary war Revere participated as a soldier in the American army and also started a gunpowder mill. His other key contributions were the designs of Continental currency and the seals of 13 colonies, including the current seal of Massachusetts. After the war Revere came back to his silversmith business in Boston. He died on May 10, 1818 when he was 83 years of age.
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