18 July 1776

Colonel Thomas Crafts, a member of the Sons of Liberty, read a copy of the Declaration of Independence to the Patriots of Boston from the east side balcony of the State House at 11 o’clock this morning.  Fort Hill cannons fired thirteen pieces of cannon and in return local Regiments fired their cannons thirteen times.  Thirteen colonies united in their desire for independence.

After the reading of the Declaration of Independence the Patriots removed the lion and the unicorn – royal symbols of Great Britain – from the State House corners and burned them in a bonfire in Dock Square.  Some townspeople are considering a new name for King Street, as well, as they bid farewell to the monarchy.

The Boston Local