Rep Roy. Discusses `Massachusetts 250' Initiative He Helped Launch

With the state kicking off major events to mark the 250th anniversary of the start of the American Revolution, Observer reached out to State Rep. Jeff Roy, who was an early supporter of the efforts, for some perspective and insights...

Q: When did MA 250 get started and how long have you been involved?

ROY: The 250th American Revolution Anniversary Commission was started with a bill (https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/H3226) filed on January 26, 2021 by me and Rep. Paul McMurtry to form the group. The language from the bill was incorporated into the FY22 budget (section 132) and established the Commission. I was appointed by the Speaker of the House to serve as a Commissioner. Our charge is to: (i) develop a comprehensive plan for promoting and celebrating the two hundred and fiftieth anniversary of the American Revolution; (ii) identify all opportunities for individuals, municipalities or other actors across the commonwealth to participate in celebrations of the anniversary and recognize the particular history of their geographical areas; (iii) investigate and promote under-represented voices in the American Revolution including, but not limited to, women, native peoples and persons of color; and (iv) submit a report to the governor, the speaker of the house of representatives, the senate president and the clerks of the house of representatives and the senate that shall include, but not be limited to, an overview of the commonwealth's particular role in the American Revolution and notable battles, events and figures of the era. 

Upon agreement of the governor, speaker of the house of representatives and the senate president, the report may be published for distribution to the public. The Commission has been meeting regularly since March 15, 2022 and you can follow us at https://malegislature.gov/Commissions/Detail/572/Hearings.

Q: What does MA 250 mean for the state and is it really just something for Boston and communities like Lexington?

ROY: It’s a statewide initiative to celebrate 250 years of America’s independence and Massachusetts’ revolutionary legacy. Massachusetts is where the Revolution began and where the Revolution continues. We are state of firsts: first in freedom, first in education, home of the first library, first in health care and first in innovation. The MA250 initiative will highlight the state’s rich history and amplify untold stories of the Revolution through hundreds of cultural and community events over the next two years. The events will draw visitors, drive local economies, and share the whole story of Massachusetts and our nation through the voices of every community.

Q: Are there any particular aspects of MA 250 or the history we are celebrating that resonate with you or that you are particularly interested in?

ROY: I like to remind folks that Massachusetts is truly where the American Revolution began. I tell folks that here in Massachusetts, we did the revolutionary work. In Philadelphia, they did the paperwork. There are three pivotal events that resonate with me and they are commemorated on murals in Nurse’s Hall at the State House. They include a portrayal of Paul Revere’s famous ride, the Boston Tea Party, and one depicting James T. Otis’s argument in the writs of Assistance case in 1761. Otis lost the case but galvanized colonial resistance. In fact, a young man watching that trial wrote in his diary that he saw the flame of liberty ignited in that argument. Fifteen years later, that young man John Adams, helped draft the Declaration of Independence.

Above, Rep. Roy  at the Old State House in the room the Otis made his argument in 1761.

Q: Where can people learn more about this and/or how can they stay in touch?

ROY: MA250 has a robust and informative website at https://massachusetts250.org/. And the Field Guide I have attached has some great resources as well.

Q: You are known for having visited all or nearly all of the presidential libraries. Are there any particular presidential library experiences that tie in with the stories of Massachusetts and the Revolution?

ROY: While the libraries primarily focus on the individual presidencies, they all include content about political and historical culture—including the legacy of the American Revolution. What stands out to me is the revolutionary concept of a peaceful transition of power that takes place after every Presidential election, which began in Philadelphia in 1797 with George Washington relinquishing power to John Adams at Congress Hall in Philadelphia. 

At the JFK Library I found a number of exhibits on Massachusetts history, the Revolutionary ideals in Kennedy's speeches, and numerous educational offerings. Across the parking lot from that library, you can find the Massachusetts Archives which includes a museum with artifacts from the American Revolution. The Adams National Historical Park takes you on a journey about America's history through the eyes of John Adams and his family. And the Massachusetts Historical Society in Boston holds many Revolutionary Treasures. Among them are the Adams Family Papers with materials from Presidents John Adams and John Quincy Adams.

It was there that I got to hold the original letter written by Paul Revere describing his famous ride (see photograph, below). Each of these libraries are precious reminders of the freedoms advanced by the war for American Independence.

Rep. Roy with original copy of Paul Revere's account of his ride.

Q: A final question, do you see any modern political takeaway from the Revolution?

ROY: The Revolutionary Spirit is a part of the soul of America. Massachusetts has always been a hub of innovation and progress, a place where groundbreaking ideas take root and where transformative change occurs. The events that took place her 250 years ago can help us navigate the challenges that lie ahead and inspire future leaders and generations to carry the torch of progress.