The December 16, 1773 Boston Tea Party is thought it be a turning point in the progress toward American independence from Great Britain. Today, those of us who long to experience this act of colonial protest can reenact the event from replica ships equipped with chests of tea and actual firing cannons. Although it is held in July of each year, “Boston Harborfest,” features special events enabling visitors to travel back in time to this seminal event.

By dumping tea into Boston Harbor, the group of men known as the “Sons of Liberty” gave the local Governor Hutchinson a tangible demonstration of their displeasure of the policies he was entrusted to enforce. The men were disguised as American Indians; however, it was clear to all concerned that the protesters were conveying views held by American colonists. They were motivated by the Great Britain practice of “taxation without representation” levied upon the American colonies. Future Continental Congress delegates who participated in this act of protest include Samuel Adams and John Hancock. Although Governor Hutchinson may have disagreed with some of the policies of the British crown such as the Stamp Act (1765), he was far too entrenched in his own career advancement to promote American colonial interests.

The Boston Tea Party was just another indication that Governor Hutchinson was not in control of his jurisdiction. The following year as tensions heightened, Governor Hutchinson was replaced by General Gage, as it was determined that a military governor would be more effective. Any success General Gage enjoyed was short-lived. By now, the men who dumped tea into Boston Harbor were convinced they could control their own destiny.