Boston History Timeline

President Washington Visits Boston

President Washington's visit to Boston began on Saturday, October 24, 1789. On that day, at 10 o'clock in the morning, 55-year-old Alexander Edwards, the Reveres and other inhabitants of the town assembled and formed a Procession in the Mall. The artisans, tradesmen, and manufacturers were alphabetically arranged. Each group stood behind white silk flags of a yard square that flew from handsomely painted seven-foot long staffs. Each flag contained a device noting the group's trade. Alexander Edwards marched behind the flag of the Cabinet and Chair-Makers while the Reveres likely followed behind the flag containing the Goldsmith's Arms.

The procession made its way to the entrance of the town where the entire group halted and opened ranks. Facing inwards, they formed an avenue reaching from the neck to the State House for the President to pass through. At one o'clock, the President's approach was announced by discharges of artillery from Roxbury, Dorchester Heights, and Castle William; a salute from the ships, and by the ringing of all the bells. As President Washington reached the Roxbury line (at Boston Neck) he appeared in Continental uniform and mounted an elegant white horse. He was attended by Major Jackson, and Mr. Lear, his Secretaries. Vice President John Adams followed on horseback. The Selectmen welcomed the President and he was escorted into town followed by the Procession.

Benjamin Edwards and his sister Sally made their way through the jubilant crowd near the State House to catch a glimpse of the legendary General Washington. The nation's new president soon passed through a richly decorated triumphal arch and canopy to the Colonnade, erected for the occasion at the west end of the State House. President Washington was seated on a temporary balcony here, an Ode was sung, and the Procession passed him, proceeded into Court Street and was dismissed. Benjamin and Sally gathered with their Uncle Alexander and Sally's husband Paul Revere Jr. All agreed that it was a day they would never forget. That evening, they viewed fireworks that were exhibited in several parts of the town.

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