Family Hours
Educational Fun for All Ages
Inspired by Children's Hours held at Old South Meeting House from the late 19th century through the early 20th century, join Revolutionary Spaces for a modern take on family fun at our historic sites and museums! Visit the Old South Meeting House and the Old State House throughout the year for activities for all ages of history enthusiasts, including themed games, crafts, scavenger hunts, gallery talks, music, and more!
Family Hours activities are included in the price of general admission and all children ages 12 and under get in to both the Old State House and Old South Meeting House for FREE!
See scheduled dates below and plan your visit today.*
Theme: Historical Halloween Party
Location: Old South Meeting House
Time: 10:00 AM until 3:00 PM
Admission: Free for ages 12 and under
Celebrate the season with Revolutionary Spaces at our Historical Halloween Party at the Old South Meeting House! Families are invited to enjoy an afternoon of fall festivities and hands-on activities.
Children and caregivers can participate in Halloween-themed crafts, autumn coloring projects, and storytime featuring festive and historical books. Costumes are welcome! Step back in time with dress-up activities, enjoy lively music, and explore history through creativity and play in one of Boston’s most historic gathering places.
Theme: TBD
Location: Old South Meeting House
Time: 10:00 AM until 3:00 PM
Admission: Free for ages 12 and under
Theme: Boston Tea Party
Location: Old South Meeting House
Time: 10:00 AM until 3:00 PM
Admission: Free for ages 12 and under
The History of Children's Hours at Old South Meeting House
In 1883, Mary Hemenway spearheaded an ambitious educational program as part of the Old South Association’s mission. This program, which included essay contests, holiday ceremonies, child fairs, and musical offerings became known as Children's Hours. Old South Lectures for Young People were also established in the summer of 1883 "as a means of promoting a more serious and intelligent attention to historical studies, especially studies in American history among the young people in Boston.” Today, the Old South Meeting House continues to educate the young people of Boston and remember Mary Hemenway's mission through our Family Hours programming.