"We hear from Weston in the County of Middlesex ..."
To order an image, navigate to the full
display and click "request this image"
on the blue toolbar.
-
Choose an alternate description of this item written for these projects:
- Main description
[ This description is from the project: Coming of the American Revolution ]
This article from the Massachusetts Gazette; and the Boston Post-Boy and Advertiser describes a case of burglary and destruction of property as a result of Isaac Jones' purchase of tea in Albany, NY. Colonists who continuted to purchase British tea in spite of nonconsumption agreements were often vilified.
Good Indians, Bad Indians
Tea has become an accursed commodity by 1774. Those who serve and drink it, no less than those who import it, are reviled. While they have been urged not to drink the tea since the imposition of the Townshend duties in 1767--when young ladies had been instructed to "Throw aside your Bohea and your Green Hyson Tea"--the colonists are often forgiven their lapses. After visiting John Hancock's home in February 1771, John Adams hopes that the tea he drinks there is Dutch and smuggled. In the wake of the events of 16 December 1773, however, any contact with the "pernicious weed" becomes grounds for verbal, and even physical, attacks.
To examine all four pages of this newspaper, please see the online display of The Massachusetts Gazette; and the Boston Post-Boy and Advertiser , 4 April 1774.
Questions to Consider
1. What is a "paper visage"?
2. Why does the crowd attack Jones's inn? Do you think the attack is justified? Why or why not?
3. Characterize the attack's participants. Be sure to ground your descriptions in the facts as set forth. Draw an opinion of these individuals from your characterization.
Further Exploration
4. Consider alternative approaches to the issue before the town. Write a paragraph outlining one of your approaches and why you think it is better or worse than the one taken in Weston.