Paul Revere Heritage Project

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Who was Paul Revere?

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 in December, 1734 in Boston Revere first became famous for his craftsmanship. His other well-known specialty was the engraved printing plates.

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Boston Massacre Engraving

Paul Revere created his most famous engraving just 3 weeks after the Boston Massacre occurred on March 5, 1770. It is regarded as an important historic document but it also contains number of inaccuracies intended by the author to inspire colonists to protest the British rule. Let’s take closer look at the details.

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Popular Myths about the Midnight Ride

H.W. Longfellow's poem created many popular myths. Here are some of them:
- Revere rode alone
- "One, if by land and two, if by sea" signal was meant for him.
- He climbed the tower of the Old North Church the night of the ride.
- Revere rode triumphantly into Concord

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Virtual Midnight Ride

At 11 pm, Revere left his home on foot after receiving a message…

Historic Documents

Turn your attention to the account of the ride written by Revere himself

Historic Landmarks

Find the historic places connected to the life of the famous silversmith.

Midnight Ride Video

Early Life

The future American patriot was born in Boston’s North End, December 22 1734. Sometimes his birthday is mistakenly stated as January 1st 1735, which was actually the day when he was baptized. His father’s name was Apollos Rivoire and his mother’s Deborah Hichborn. His father was a Huguenot who had immigrated to America as a refugee from religious persecution in France. Apollos learned his trade as a gold and silversmith from John Coney. Later he anglicized his name as Paul Revere.

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The Creator of the Patriot Intelligence Network

It is not commonly known that Revere is credited as the creator of the first Patriot intelligence network on record. The group of patriots who called themselves “mechanics” was mainly composed of craftsman and artisans like Revere himself.

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Pre-Revolution Activities

In 1757 P.R. came back from the French Indian War were he served as a second lieutenant. After the war he resumed his normal life, married Sarah Orne, had children and continued working as silversmith.

Revere was an independent businessman who later became an active political leader and fought for independence from the British. He was a versatile businessman and artisan who adapted to economic difficulties by innovating and applying his silversmith talent to new demands. He was known for his work with silver, however as economic times pressed he even advertised as a dentist, published music and drew political cartoons. Later he would use this talent to shape anti British public opinion.

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Inaccuracies in H.W. Longfellow’s poem

During most of the nineteenth century Longfellow’s poem was considered a historical account and evidence of what happened the night of April 18, 1775 and many textbooks were written based on Longfellow’s poem. During the 20th century textbook writers and historians tried to portray a more objective account of the facts. They argued about the inaccuracies of the poet’s account and what were the real events, they tried to demythologize the poem. Nevertheless, Longfellow's poem has become so successful and ingrained in every American mind that readers no longer remember it as a poem but as a national legend. It is a reminder of the patriotism that led to independence and a part of the American culture.

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