15 Interesting Facts About Paul Revere

Paul Revere, a key figure in American history, is best known for his midnight ride to warn of British troop movements during the American Revolutionary War. However, his contributions and life go far beyond that famous night. In this article, we’ll explore 15 intriguing facts about Paul Revere, shedding light on his many roles and accomplishments.

Introduction

Paul Revere is often remembered as a patriot and silversmith, but his life was marked by much more than just one historic ride. Let’s delve into the fascinating aspects of his life and the lasting impact he had on the American Revolution.

Fact 1: Early Life and Apprenticeship

Born in Boston: Paul Revere was born on December 21, 1734, in Boston, Massachusetts, a bustling colonial city known for its vibrant culture and trade.

Apprenticed to a Silversmith: At the age of 13, Revere was apprenticed to a silversmith, a trade that would shape his career and contribute to his reputation as a skilled artisan.

Diverse Artistic Talents: Revere’s artistic talents extended beyond silversmithing; he was also a skilled engraver and printer.

Fact 2: The Midnight Ride

The Legendary Ride: On the night of April 18, 1775, Paul Revere embarked on his famous midnight ride to warn colonial militias that British troops were advancing to seize military supplies and arrest patriot leaders.

“The British Are Coming!”: Contrary to popular belief, Revere never shouted “The British are coming!” during his ride, as it would have been counterproductive, considering that most colonial residents still considered themselves British subjects.

William Dawes and Samuel Prescott: Revere was not alone on his ride. He was accompanied by William Dawes and Samuel Prescott, both of whom played significant roles in spreading the alarm.

Fact 3: Revere’s Role in the Sons of Liberty

A Founding Member: Paul Revere was one of the founding members of the Sons of Liberty, a secret society of American colonists who opposed British taxation and policies.

Political Engravings: Revere’s political engravings, such as his famous “The Bloody Massacre Perpetrated in King Street Boston,” played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and fueling anti-British sentiment.

Efforts to Promote Unity: Revere’s involvement in the Sons of Liberty exemplified his dedication to the cause of colonial independence and his commitment to uniting colonists against British oppression.

Fact 4: His Military Service

Active Participant in the Revolution: Beyond his famous ride, Revere served as a lieutenant colonel in the Massachusetts State Regiment during the American Revolution.

Artillery Expertise: Revere’s skills as a silversmith and metalworker made him invaluable in artillery production, as he contributed to the casting of cannons and artillery pieces for the colonial forces.

Prisoner of War: In 1779, Revere was captured by the British while on a military mission but was later released in a prisoner exchange.

Fact 5: His Talents as an Artisan

Silversmith Extraordinaire: Paul Revere’s work as a silversmith and engraver was renowned for its exceptional quality and craftsmanship. His silver creations, such as teapots and tankards, are now valuable collector’s items.

Engraved Copper Plates: Revere engraved copper plates for book illustrations and currency, further showcasing his versatility as an artisan.

Innovative Dentistry: Revere even delved into dentistry, crafting dental prosthetics made from walrus ivory or human teeth.

Fact 6: His Family Life

Large Family: Revere was the father of 16 children, thanks to his two marriages. He married Sarah Orne in 1757, and after her death, he wed Rachel Walker in 1773.

Family Business: Several of his sons followed in their father’s footsteps, becoming skilled silversmiths and artisans themselves.

Longevity in Family: Paul Revere’s family continued to be well-known in Boston for generations, carrying on the legacy of their famous ancestor.

Fact 7: His Involvement in the Artillery

Founding the Massachusetts Charitable Mechanic Association: Revere was instrumental in founding the Massachusetts Charitable Mechanic Association in 1795. This organization aimed to support and recognize the skills of craftsmen and mechanics.

Production of Bells and Church Bells: Revere’s foundry produced a variety of metal objects, including bells for churches and institutions.

Contributions to the Industry: His contributions to the metalworking and foundry industry had a lasting impact on American manufacturing and craftsmanship.

Fact 8: The Midnight Ride’s Forgotten Details

Additional Riders: Paul Revere was not the only rider sent to warn of the British advance. Samuel Prescott and William Dawes were also dispatched, and they all played crucial roles in spreading the alarm.

Caution and Discretion: Revere and his fellow riders used discretion during their mission to avoid capture by British patrols. Their caution was essential to the success of the message.

The Hidden Message: Revere had the added task of alerting key figures, such as John Hancock and Samuel Adams, who were staying in Lexington. He succeeded in ensuring their escape and safety.

Fact 9: His Business and Trade

Revere’s Successful Business: Paul Revere’s silversmith shop in Boston thrived, creating an array of silver goods that found favor with affluent customers.

Trade Beyond Silversmithing: In addition to crafting silverware, Revere’s shop produced items such as surgical instruments and copper goods.

Copper Plate Engravings: Revere’s engravings extended beyond political illustrations; he also produced copper plates for the printing of books and other publications.

Fact 10: Revere’s Service as an Express Rider

Other Notable Rides: Before his famous midnight ride, Revere had undertaken other express rides, carrying messages and news between Boston and other colonial towns.

Messenger for the Massachusetts Provincial Congress: Revere’s experience as an express rider made him a natural choice for conveying important messages and warnings during times of crisis.

Diverse Roles: Revere’s life was filled with a wide array of roles, ranging from artisan to military officer and messenger.

Fact 11: His Connections to Freemasonry

Freemasonry Involvement: Paul Revere was a Freemason and a member of St. Andrew’s Lodge in Boston.

Freemasonry’s Influence: Freemasonry played a significant role in the Enlightenment-era ideals of liberty and fraternity, which were embraced by many American patriots.

Fraternal Bonds: Revere’s membership in the Freemasons reflected the spirit of fraternity and unity that was prevalent among American revolutionaries.

Fact 12: His Later Work and Business Endeavors

Post-Revolutionary Ventures: After the American Revolution, Revere expanded his business interests to include the production of rolled copper for sheathing ships, which was in high demand at the time.

Copper Works Success: Revere’s copper works venture was highly successful, and he played a role in supplying materials for the nascent United States Navy.

Entrepreneurial Spirit: Throughout his life, Revere displayed an entrepreneurial spirit, seeking opportunities for innovation and growth.

Fact 13: His Role in the Boston Tea Party

Participation in the Boston Tea Party: Paul Revere was one of the participants in the Boston Tea Party of 1773, where American colonists, disguised as Native Americans, boarded British ships and dumped tea into Boston Harbor to protest the Tea Act.

Continued Resistance: The Boston Tea Party was a manifestation of the ongoing resistance to British taxation and regulations, which ultimately contributed to the outbreak of the American Revolution.

Revere’s Active Citizenship: Revere’s involvement in the protest exemplified his dedication to the revolutionary cause and his commitment to challenging British authority.

Fact 14: His Artistic Legacy

A Master Craftsman: Revere’s work as a silversmith set a high standard for American craftsmanship during his era, and his legacy continues to influence contemporary artisans and collectors.

Preservation of His Art: Many of Revere’s silver creations and engravings have been preserved and are on display in museums and private collections, offering a glimpse into his artistry and skill.

Honoring His Contributions: Today, Paul Revere is celebrated as a patriot, artisan, and symbol of American craftsmanship.

Fact 15: His Impact on American History

Iconic American Patriot: Paul Revere has become an iconic figure in American history, symbolizing the spirit of independence, resistance to tyranny, and the enduring pursuit of liberty.

A Name Synonymous with the Revolution: The name “Paul Revere” is synonymous with the American Revolution and the courage of those who fought for a new nation.

Celebrated in Art and Literature: Revere’s legendary ride and contributions to the founding of the United States have been celebrated in countless works of art, literature, and historical accounts.

Conclusion

Paul Revere’s life was a tapestry of talent, courage, and determination. His midnight ride, though his most famous act, was just one of many remarkable chapters in his life. From his early days as an apprentice silversmith to his active role in the Sons of Liberty and the American Revolution, Revere’s contributions to American history are immeasurable. His legacy lives on in the annals of American history, where he stands as an enduring symbol of patriotism and the American spirit of independence.