Virtual Tour Detail

Paul Revere made this engraving of the scene–the most widely circulated image of the revolution. In the background are the Old State House and the First Church–the real authorities in Massachusetts–while the soldiers rule through force.

At the trial, Judge Peter Oliver blasted these engravings for distorting the facts. He complained that so many people had hung this engraving in their homes that no one could form a fair opinion on what happened.

Paul Revere's copper engraving plate is on display in the Treasures Gallery.