The Shirley-Eustis House Presents the Third Annual Tory Trail Bus Tour

The Shirley-Eustis House, 33 Shirley Street, a National Historic Landmark house museum and carriage house in Roxbury, Massachusetts, announces its third annual Tory Trail Bus Tour on Saturday, June 13, 2015

The Tory Trail Tour will enlighten us about the loyalists who lived and resided in Massachusetts during the 18th-Century.  This group conflicted greatly with patriot sentiment and would have preferred a peaceful solution to King George’s demands.  As we know, what followed was war – a civil war.  They were driven from homes and livelihoods, many never returning to a property that had sometimes been in families for generations. They returned to England or fled to other parts of the country.

The Tory Trail Tour will promote the remaining loyalist historic sites with each of these sites owned by a loyalist family during the period leading up to the American Revolution.  Most sites are designated as national historic landmarks, are owned by non-profit organizations, and are open to the public.

The bus tour will be narrated by Executive Director, Patti Violette. She will also give additional loyalist information as we make our way through the trail.  “This project has been years in the making with the introduction of the Tory Trail Map,” said Executive Director Patti Violette, “Each year just keeps getting better and better!”

Hop on the bus at 7:30 a.m. when it departs from the Shirley-Eustis House, 33 Shirley Street, Roxbury.  We will make our way to Revolutionary Marblehead – a significant seafaring port during the 18th-century which played an important role in the formation of our great nation.  Its residents took up the cause because like so many during that time, they were disenchanted with the control and taxations the British were imposing over the Colonies.  Marblehead locals were indeed preparing themselves for a revolt.

When we arrive in Marblehead, we will proceed on a walking tour that will include visits to the Colonel Jeremiah Lee Mansion, the King Hooper Mansion, St. Michael’s Church, the 1727 Towne House and the General John Glover House.  Our tour guide for the day will be Judy Anderson, Marblehead’s social, cultural and architectural historian and former curator of the Lee Mansion.

After our walking tour, we will be treated to a luncheon on the harbor front at The Landing Restaurant.  Then, we will reboard the bus and head back to Boston.  We anticipate returning at approximately 2:00 p.m.

The Tory Trail Tour will engage your senses as we travel to these sites.  Tickets for this expedition are $50 per person and includes lunch.  Paid reservations must be made in advance no later than Monday, June 8, 2015.  Off-street parking at the Shirley-Eustis House is available.  Dress is comfortable and casual.  Please call 617-442-2275 or email governorshirley@gmail.com to make your reservation.  Don’t miss out!  Reserve now!

For more information about Shirley Place, its architecture, residents, gardens and collections, visit www.shirleyeustishouse.org and become a fan on our Facebook page to stay connected to our events and announcements.