Old North Church & Historic Site

Founded in 1723, Old North Church's 300+ year history is uncommon in America. Only about 1% of houses of worship in the U.S. today existed in 1776.

RNS wrote an excellent article about churches and synagogues that predate the Revolution. Check out the story for interviews with Old North's Vicar and congregants:

These houses of worship are older than America. How they outlasted wars, schisms and lawsuits. (RNS) — Only about 1% of houses of worship in the U.S. today existed in 1776. Here are four that predate the revolution — and still hold services.

This afternoon, a film crew from the Food Network visited Old North Church for a secret project! We can't wait to see it.

We were thrilled to host the 2026 graduation ceremony for the North Bennet Street School this morning!

Located steps away from Old North, the school trains students in unique trades like violin making, bookbinding, and preservation carpentry. Congratulations to all the talented grads!

If you'll be in Boston on June 11, don't miss this!

Ron, Dottie, and Abby recently visited Old North's crypt and took this family photo in front of the tomb of their ancestor William Redfern.

They have been researching their family history, and it was a pleasure taking them on our Bones & Burials private tour!

On Memorial Day, we recognize the tremendous bravery and sacrifice of those who serve.

Our Memorial Garden honors American lives lost in the conflicts in Afghanistan, Iraq, and the greater war on terror. Each dog tag represents a fallen service member.

Just another Casual Friday at Old North!

Last August, USPS released an Old North Church stamp in anticipation of the 2026 World Stamp Show in Boston...and now the stamp show is finally here!

Beginning this Saturday, the Boston 2026 World Expo will feature world-class exhibits, post offices from around the world, children's activities, LEGO displays, stamp dealers, and more. Admission is free!

To mark the occasion, our gift shop is offering items sporting the Old North stamp design, including coasters, postcards, prints, and journals: https://oldnorthgiftshop.online/collections/world-stamp-expo-2026

Old North's first steeple went up in 1740, without the aid of cranes or modern machinery.

The steeple was constructed in a pasture near the church. Then, it was hoisted onto the brick tower using ropes. The parish rewarded the workmen with a celebratory meal called a “raising dinner” afterward!

In 1755, three enslaved people, Mark, Phillis, and Phebe, were punished for fatally poisoning their enslaver, John Codman. The case was so well known that 40 years later, Paul Revere used the location of Mark's body as a landmark when describing his famous 1775 ride.

How should we remember Mark, Phillis, and Phebe today? On June 13 at the Cambridge Public Library, a panel of scholars, artists, and activists will examine the legacy of this historical moment. RSVP for free: https://cambridgepl.libcal.com/event/16793265

*The art installation in this photo, "The Resurrection of Mark, Phillis, & Phebe" was created by Ifé Franklin, a panelist for the June 13 event.*