Later Years
Encouraged by profit and patriotism Revere became a wealthy businessman while helping the nation develop a strong economy. In 1811, at the age of 76, Paul Revere retired leaving his well established business to his sons and grandsons.
During his later years the great patriot devoted considerable time to the Massachusetts Charitable Mechanics Association of which he was its first president. This group was meant to help small business owners to improve working conditions.
As an active member of the Masonic Lodge for forty nine years, Paul Revere met many men of influence in the community. In 1809, at the age of 74, Paul ended his involvement in this organization.
In 1813, both his wife, Rachel and eldest son, Paul Jr. died. On May 10, 1818 at the age of 83 Paul Revere died at his home on Charter Street in Boston. He died of natural causes. He is buried on the Old Granary Burying Ground on Tremont Street, Boston.
Revere did not die as a Patriot, his Midnight Ride was not celebrated during his life and few people knew about his contribution to the American Revolution. It was the famous poem by poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow that immortalized Revere’s ride 95 years after the event occurred.
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