Robert Gould Shaw and the 54th Regiment Memorial
A moving tribute to Colonel Shaw and the 54th Regiment, honoring their bravery and sacrifice in the fight for equality during the Civil War.
This powerful bronze relief sculpture commemorates Colonel Robert Gould Shaw and the 54th Massachusetts Regiment, one of the first African American regiments to fight in the Civil War. Located on Boston Common, across from the Massachusetts State House, it depicts the regiment's march down Beacon Street in 1863 as they departed for war.
A brief summary to Robert Gould Shaw and the 54th Regiment Memorial
- 26 Beacon St, Boston, Beacon Hill, Massachusetts, 02108, US
- +1617-429-6760
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the detail and artistry of the bronze relief.
- Take a moment to reflect on the historical significance of the memorial and the sacrifices made by the 54th Regiment.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the Black Heritage Trail or the Freedom Trail to explore more of Boston's rich history.
Getting There
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Walking
The Robert Gould Shaw Memorial is located on Boston Common, directly across from the Massachusetts State House on Beacon Street. From anywhere on the Common, follow the paths towards the State House. The memorial is easily visible from the Beacon Street sidewalk.
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Public Transport
Several MBTA subway lines and bus routes stop near the Robert Gould Shaw Memorial. Take the Green Line or Red Line to the Park Street Station or the Blue Line or Green Line to the Government Center Station. From either station, it is a short walk to the memorial across from the State House on Beacon Street. Bus routes 111, 426, 43, 450, 501, and 504 also stop nearby. A one-way fare on the subway or local bus is $1.70.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you off directly in front of the Robert Gould Shaw Memorial on Beacon Street. A short ride from downtown Boston (e.g., Faneuil Hall) will typically cost between $10 and $15, depending on traffic.
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