King Hancock: A Man of Capital

Tuesday, September 9, 2025

King Hancock: A Man of Capital

Revolutionary Spaces, in partnership with the Colonial Society of Massachusetts, is pleased to host a spirited discussion of John Hancock’s role as a mover and shaker in Massachusetts’ 18th century evolution from Colony to Commonwealth. Join us as we examine the Commonwealth’s first governor, the self-described “Man of Capital” and the veritable “King” of Massachusetts. Our featured guest for this special event will be Dr. Brooke Barbier, author of King Hancock: The Radical Influence of a Moderate Founding Father. Promising an insightful and engaging look at the man who helped to finance the patriot movement on his way to becoming President of the Continental Congress and Governor of Massachusetts, this program will feature an exclusive exhibition of select items from the Revolutionary Spaces collection of John Hancock artifacts.

This program is free and open to the public thanks to the generous support of the Lowell Institute. Doors will open at 6:30 pm and the program will begin at 7:00 pm. Light snacks and refreshments will be provided courtesy of Democracy Brewing.

Seating for this event is very limited and admission cannot be guaranteed without pre-registration. In addition, all registrants will be required to reconfirm their attendance in writing 72 hours prior to the event in order to maintain their seat. If registrants do not confirm at that time, their place will be made available to someone on the waitlist. The first 50 registered attendees will receive complimentary copies of the newly-released paperback edition of Dr. Barbier’s book.

Details

Tuesday, September 9, 2025

Doors Open: 6:30 PM
Program Begins: 7:00 PM
Location: Old State House
Admission: Free

Seating for this event is very limited and admission cannot be guaranteed without pre-registration. In addition, all registrants will be required to reconfirm their attendance in writing 72 hours prior to the event in order to maintain their seat. If registrants do not confirm at that time, their place will be made available to someone on the waitlist.

By registering to attend this event, you will be added to Revolutionary Spaces’ email list. You are able to opt out at any time.

Old State House

About the Speakers

Brooke Barbier Public Program King Hancock: A Man of Capital

Brooke Barbier is a public historian with a PhD in American history from Boston College. She is the author of King Hancock: The Radical Influence of a Moderate Founding Father, which won the 2024 New England Historical Association James P. Hanlan Book Award, as well as the New England Society Nonfiction Book of the Year Award, and  Boston in the American Revolution: A Town versus an Empire. She founded and operates Ye Olde Tavern Tours, a popular guided outing along Boston’s renowned Freedom Trail. 

Free Registration