Fisher College
Step Into the Past: Boston's Freedom Trail
- Student Life
When you're a Fisher College student living in the Back Bay of Boston, it means you’re surrounded by history everywhere you go. From learning about the American Revolution in class to actually walking the same streets where history happened, the Boston Freedom Trail brings those stories to life. Along the trail, you’ll find famous landmarks that helped shape the country’s history, government, and culture. Whether you’re a history buff or just exploring the city with friends, the Freedom Trail is one of the coolest ways to experience the heart of Boston. So, what are the must-see stops along the way?
Boston Common
The start of the Freedom Trail! Before it became a peaceful park, it doubled as a grazing ground for cows… yes, actual cows roaming what is now downtown Boston. It also served as a site for public hangings in the 1600s, giving it a much darker past than its sunny appearance suggests today. Spanning over 400 years of history, you can walk through the oldest public park in the country, and in the winter, you can go skating on the Frog Pond that was built in 1996. In summertime, this same spot serves as a kiddie pool.
Massachusetts State House
The Massachusetts State House isn’t just a historical site. It currently serves as the office for the Governor of Massachusetts and as a major meeting place for Senate and House of Representative meetings. Once you step inside, you’ll find the Sacred Cod. Yes, you read that right, a giant wooden fish mounted in the House of Representatives chamber to symbolize the fishing industry that was vital to Massachusetts’ early economy. It’s a little reminder that even in the most important meeting rooms of our nation, a little personality still swims through history.
U.S.S. Constitution
Launched in 1797, this ship isn’t just historic; it’s still officially in service today. That’s right, she’s an active-duty United States Navy vessel with a real sailor crew assigned to it. The Constitution earned its legendary nickname “Old Ironsides” during the War of 1812, when her sailors watched as British cannonballs bounced right off its hull as if it were made of iron instead of wood. In reality, its thick oak planking was tough enough to resist 32-pound iron cannonballs. As a Fisher College student, you can visit the U.S.S.Constitution for free with your Fisher ID thanks to our partnership with the Boston Public Library.
The Freedom Trail isn’t just a path marked in red brick and gold plaques. It’s a journey through the moments, decisions, and even quirks that built the nation we live in today. Thanks for taking a hike with us through the Freedom Trail and hope to catch you on your next path.