United States of America

Boston

Massachusetts State House

Boston Common

Rachel Revere Square

Clough House at Old North

Copley Square gathers three landmarks around one open space: Trinity Church, the Boston Public Library's grand McKim building, and the mirrored tower that reflects them both. The contrast between heavy stone and glass is the whole point of standing here. The farmers' market runs through the warmer months.

Copley Square

<p>The Central Library in Copley Square actually encompasses two buildings. Both Boston Public Library locations are landmarks in their own right. The first is the historic Boston Public Library McKim building, designed by architect Charles Follen McKim (opened in 1895) which houses the Library’s distinguished research and special collections.&nbsp;</p><p>McKim famously referred to the building as his “palace of the people”, voicing his passion and sense of achievement for completing the project.</p><p>The Boylston Street Building (formerly the Johnson building) was designed by Philip Johnson and opened for the first time in 1972, later reopening in 2016 following an award-winning renovation by William Rawn Associates, Architects, Inc.</p>

About the Boston Public Library

Union Oyster House

<p><strong>Historical Significance:</strong> The memorial commemorates the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment, one of the first African-American units to fight in the Civil War. Their courage and service marked a pivotal moment in American history.</p><p><strong>Artistic Excellence:</strong> Sculpted by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, the memorial was unveiled in 1897 and is celebrated for its artistic detail and emotional impact. The bronze relief depicts Colonel Shaw on horseback, leading his regiment into battle.</p><p><strong>Cultural Impact:</strong> The memorial serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and justice in America. It has inspired numerous works of art and literature, including the acclaimed film "Glory," which tells the story of the 54th Regiment.</p>

Honouring Heroes at the Robert Gould Shaw and the 54th Regiment Memorial

Historical Boston: The Record Breaker

Robert Gould Shaw and the 54th Regiment Memorial

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<div><strong>Boston holds more American "firsts" than any other city</strong>: the first public park, the first public school, the first public library, the first subway, the first marathon. Stroll through neighborhoods that shaped the nation and discover why <strong>historical Boston</strong> earned its reputation as the cradle of American civic life.</div><div><br></div><div>This <strong>historical Boston walking tour</strong> takes you from the grand facade of the Boston Public Library through Copley Square, across the Public Garden, into Boston Common, up to the State House, and deep into the old city. At each stop, a piece of history snaps into focus.</div><div><br></div><div>Along the way you will encounter the site where Alexander Graham Bell first transmitted sound, the church where Charles Dickens first read <em>A Christmas Carol</em> aloud, the oldest restaurant in America, and the oldest pub. <strong>Every stop is a record. Every block is a chapter of American history.</strong></div>

Robert Gould Shaw and the 54th Regiment Memorial, Boston, Visitor Guide & Things to Do Nearby

Plan Your Visit

Explore Robert Gould Shaw and the 54th Regiment Memorial with a Questo quest