The Stamp Tax Crisis of 1765

“

Liberty and Property ... the Usual Notice of their Intention to plunder and pull down a house.”

– Governor Francis Bernard describing the chant of Boston mobs

”

On the evening of August 26, 1765 a mob destroyed the home of Lieutenant Governor Thomas Hutchinson, one of the most elegant buildings in North America.

A written list on old brown paper. Hutchinson submitted this meticulous list of
damages. In addition to personal property he claims reimbursement
for
coat” for “Mark negro.” After a delay, Hutchinson was reimbursed
by the legislature. — Seeking compensation, Hutchinson submitted this meticulous list of damages. In addition to personal property he claims reimbursement for “a plain lawn apron” for Susannah, a maid, and a “new cloth coat” for “Mark negro.” After a delay, Hutchinson was reimbursed by the legislature.
*- Massachusetts Archives*

Painting of The attack on Thomas Hutchinson’s home — The attack on Thomas Hutchinson’s home
*- National Park Service © Louis S. Glanzman*

Destruction of Hutchinson’s Home
Bent on total destruction and fortifi ed with alcohol, angry protesters broke down the front door with axes, ripped paneling and wainscoting from walls, proceeded to destroy inner walls, furniture, and paintings, and carried off silver and clothing. Hutchinson’s notes for a history of Massachusetts were scattered and mud stained. (Th e notes, discolored with mud, remain in the vaults of the Massachusetts Archives.)

A sign that commemorates Ebenezer Mackintosh — *Mackintosh also participated in the Boston Tea Party before moving to Haverhill, New Hampshire. This historical marker highlights other events in his life.*
*- New Hampshire Department of Transportation*

**Ebenezer Mackintosh**
Captain of the Liberty Tree Shoemaker Ebenezer Mackintosh, the leader of the South End gang, was arrested aft er the destruction of Hutchinson’s home. Samuel Adams secured his release but may have had second thoughts. Mackintosh was given a blue and gold uniform as “Captain of the Liberty Tree” but surrounded by more respectable Sons of Liberty in later peaceful demonstrations.

Hutchinson’s Country House
Officially named the “Tree of Liberty” the old Elm was located at the corner of today’s Boylston and Washington Streets in downtown Boston. It was the site of many demonstrations until chopped down by British soldiers before evacuating Boston.

*This is the only contemporary drawing of Hutchinson’s country home.*
*- Milton Historical Society*

Crossing the Line

On the evening of August 26, 1765 a mob destroyed the home of Lieutenant Governor Thomas Hutchinson, one of the most elegant buildings in North America.