Old North Church - Definition and Overview

The Old North Church, officially called "Christ Church", on 193 Salem Street in the North End of Boston, Massachusetts was built in 1723, possibly inspired by the works of the British architect, Christopher Wren. The 191 ft steeple once held the lanterns (lit by Robert Newman on April 18, 1775) that told, "One if by land, and two if by sea," therefore informing Paul Revere and William Dawes of the British plans to march on Concord and Lexington. The original steeple is no longer present, twice destroyed by hurricane and twice replaced, first in 1804 and 150 years later in 1954. It now stands at 175 ft (53 m).

The Old North Church, is the oldest active church building in Boston and is a National Historic Landmark. Inside the church is a bust of George Washington, which the Marquis de Lafayette reportedly remarked was the best likeness of him he had ever seen.

Old North is a mission of the Episcopal Diocese of Massacusetts.

External link

• Old North Church web site (http://www.oldnorth.com/)