Saturday, May 24, 2025
Doors Open: 5:20 PM
Town Hall Begins: 5:30 PM
Town Hall Concludes: 6:00 PM
Location: Old South Meeting House
Admission: Free
In May 1854, a young man named Anthony Burns was arrested under the Fugitive Slave Law, and the city—long a stronghold of abolitionist sentiment—erupted in protest. Thousands gathered to raise their voices, challenge the law, and debate the soul of a nation still deeply divided. Step into this charged moment in time on the 171st anniversary of Burns’s arrest.
Join Revolutionary Spaces and the National Parks of Boston on Saturday, May 24, for Rocking the Cradle—a live, interactive reenactment of the historic town meeting that galvanized Boston into action. Set inside the iconic Old South Meeting House, you’ll experience the powerful speeches, impassioned arguments, and moral urgency of a community reckoning with injustice.
This program is free and open to the public. Pre-register today to reserve your spot!
