Boston, Massachusetts History and Architecture -- Welcome to iBoston

iBoston.org is your site for Boston history and architecture. In addition, you can find
information on Boston's public places, art, historic people and events. iBoston also
has a research area where you can learn how Boston grew physically as well as in
population.

This Day in Boston History
November 27th, 1676

First Major Fire in America

On this day in 1676, 46 houses burned in colonial Boston, constituting the first major fire disaster in American history.

Before this date, fire in America was fought by bucket brigade by volunteers. After the decimation of this early fire, Boston purchased a London pumper, and hired Thomas Atkins and twelve other men to fight fires professionally. These were the first paid firefighters in the United States, and the first fire truck.


		England's Prime Minister never expected this tea tax to cause an outcry, let alone revolution. In 1767, England reduced its property taxes at home. To balance the national budget they needed to find a mechanism for the American colonies to pay for the expense of stationing officials in them. The officials would generate their own revenue by collecting taxes on all imported goods, and once paid affixing stamps on them. This Stamp Tax generated more in the way of protests and smuggling than added revenue.		Religion. Politics. Rebellion. Boston’s pedigree was forged back in England in the midst of religious dissension, where Puritans and Pilgrims sought religious reform, and Cavaliers and Roundheads vied for political power. The question isn't where did Boston get its name – but how.

Requiem for a Short Visit

Visiting Boston, but only have a short time?
Check out our Itinerary for a Short Visit.

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