Freedom Trail Foundation

On Beacon Street, across from the Massachusetts State House, stands the Robert Gould Shaw and 54th Regiment monument. Unveiled May 31, 1897, this monument is the work of sculptor August St. Gaudens. It depicts Black soldiers of the 54th regiment marching off to war, led by Colonel Robert Gould Shaw on horseback.

During the unveiling ceremony, Mayor Josiah Quincy spoke candidly about its symbolism. He said that those who killed fought to ensure "their country might live, and that its free soil might no longer be trodden by the foot of any slave."

To learn more about the 54th Massachusetts and the Shaw Memorial, visit: https://www.nps.gov/boaf/learn/historyculture/a-brave-black-regiment.htm

🚨 SHIP CLOSURE 🚨

USS Constitution will be closed to public visitation on Saturday, May 30, 2026, due to inclement weather and unsafe conditions.

We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.

The ship will reopen for tours on Sunday, May 31, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The British warship HMS Diane was set on fire after being trapped during the Battle of Chelsea Creek the previous day on

This Day In History - May 28 - Freedom Trail Foundation Freedom Trail Player Rob Crean, who portrays Isaiah Thomas, recount...