Explore Revolutionary stories at the Congregational Library & Archives.

The Congregational Library & Archives presents a new in-person exhibition, Sacred Rebellion: Congregationalists in Revolutionary Massachusetts. The exhibition highlights the stories of Massachusetts Congregationalists drawn from the CLA’s important collections.

By the time the war began, many Congregationalists had embraced a theological justification for war and revolution. They believed that God favored them and that their cause was a morally justified, sacred rebellion. Through sermons, books, poems, songs, and letters, Congregationalists shared their stories, reflected on their moral obligations to each other, and debated questions of liberty and loyalty. But consensus was elusive, and implementation proved difficult and unsatisfactory to many, especially those on the margins.

These discussions shaped the legacy of Congregationalism and the way the Revolutionary War is remembered today, 250 years later.

Opening Hours and Tickets

The exhibition is free to visit and will be open from 11 am to 4 pm on Fridays and Saturdays from April 5 - June 21, 2025. Tickets are not required for individuals or small groups.

Group Visits

Please email info@14beacon.org or call 617.523.0470 x102 to arrange a visit for groups of 10 or more.

Location and Entry

The Congregational Library & Archives is located at 14 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02108

When you arrive, the entrance to 14 Beacon has a handy entry kiosk outside the front door. Open the brass door, tap the screen, and you will see a button for the Congregational Library. Tap the button, and someone will buzz you in. From there, take the elevator or the stairs to the second floor.

Transportation/Parking

We are easily accessible by public transportation and encourage visitors to use the MBTA.

If you are taking the Red or Green Lines: 
The nearest subway stop is Park Street Station (less than a five-minute walk). Upon exiting Park Street Station, turn left and walk up Park Street, toward the Massachusetts State House. Turn right on Beacon Street. The library is located on the second floor of 14 Beacon Street.

If you are taking the Orange or Blue Lines: 
The nearest subway stop is State Street Station (less than a ten-minute walk). Upon exiting the State Street Station, turn left and walk up Washington Street towards Downtown Crossing. At School Street, take a right and walk up the hill. Cross over Tremont Street and keep walking up the hill, the street has now become Beacon Street. The library is located on the second floor of 14 Beacon Street.

There is no parking at the library, although there are several nearby parking garages. The best options are the Boston Common Garage, which is a 10 to 15 minute walk from the library, and the Center Plaza Garage at 32 Tremont Street. There is also valet parking located at 17 Beacon Street, but availability is at a premium.

Curators Talks & Virtual Tours

Save the date for these upcoming talks and tours and watch for more information, coming soon.

Thursday, April 24th, 1-2 pm EDT:  Virtual Exhibition Tour with Tricia Peone and Kyle Roberts on Zoom 
Friday, May 2nd, 2-3 pm EDT: In-Person Curator's Talk with Tricia Peone at 14 Beacon
Saturday, June 7th, 1-2 pm EDT: In-Person Curator's Talk with Tricia Peone at 14 Beacon

About the Congregational Library & Archives

The Congregational Library & Archives is an independent research library. Established in 1853, the CLA’s mission is to foster a deeper understanding of the spiritual, intellectual, cultural, and civic dimensions of the Congregational story and its ongoing relevance in the twenty-first century. The library’s collection holds some 225,000 books, pamphlets, periodicals, and manuscripts, as well as a digital archive, which contains more than 130,000 images, many drawn from the New England's Hidden Histories project. Throughout the year, the Congregational Library & Archives is a thriving research center and offers educational programs and fellowships for students, scholars, churches, and anyone interested in Congregationalism’s influence on the American story.

Exhibition Credits

Sacred Rebellion: Congregationalists in Revolutionary Massachusetts was curated by Tricia Peone and written by Tricia Peone and Kyle Roberts. The exhibition was designed by Joy Feasley. Graphics for the exhibition were created by Barb Barnett Graphic Design LLC. Lauren Hibbert designed the exhibition's promotional and informational materials.