Bunker Hill Monument

The Bunker Hill Monument is a 221-foot granite obelisk in Charlestown, Boston, built between 1827 and 1843 to commemorate the Battle of Bunker Hill fought on June 17, 1775. Though technically a British victory, the battle demonstrated that colonial militiamen could inflict heavy casualties on professional troops — making it a pivotal morale boost for the Revolution. The cornerstone was laid in 1825 with Revolutionary War veteran the Marquis de Lafayette in attendance, but funding shortfalls stretched construction across nearly two decades. Administered today by the National Park Service as part of Boston National Historical Park, it sits along the Freedom Trail. Visitors who climb all 294 granite steps are rewarded with a sweeping panoramic view over Boston Harbor and the city skyline.