Genuine Articles
Where to find the nation's most important piece of paper
Photo: Les Wood
Y
ou don't have to go to Washington to see an original copy of the U.S. Constitution. Of only nine remaining copies of the first edition of the Constitution written in 1787 and circulated to the states to stimulate discussion, one of the very few on public view is in Boston’s John Joseph Moakley federal courthouse. Marcus
Shhhh! The U.S. Constitution is the oldest and the shortest constitution of any government in the world, with 4,543 words including the signatures.
Shhh who knew
Boston's John Joseph Moakley federal courthouse includes $1.4 million worth of English oak paneling, hand-painted stenciling, judges' chambers with private bathrooms and kitchens, and a $1.6 million pier. The $228 million price was so high it led to a moratorium on further federal courthouse construction.
Original copy of the U.S. Constitution
1 Courthouse Way
Boston,
MA,
02210
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These lines serve the Moakley courthouse. Click to find more secrets on your route.
11 Bus, 171 Bus, 7 Bus, Courthouse/Silver Line, South Station/Red Line, South Station/Silver Line
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