The visit to Boston by Queen Elizabeth II in 1976

BOSTON — News of Queen Elizabeth II passing at the age of 96 will have many in Boston reminiscing about her visit to the city in 1976 to help celebrate the U.S. Bicentennial.

A report at the time from The New York Times says “Queen Elizabeth II spent her last day in the United States in this city with its Revolutionary past and heavily Irish present. She was received with applause by large, friendly crowds and restrained protest by a relatively small number of demonstrators.”

The Times says Queen Elizabeth was greeted by a 21-gun salute from the Old Ironsides, before making stops in the North End with Governor Michael Dukakis, and at City Hall for a lunch with Mayor Kevin White.

According to The New York Times, Elizabeth said in a speech at the old State House that it was not far from Boston “that ‘it all began.”

She was “very moved” by her welcome, she said.

“We have enjoyed tremendously joining with the people of America and celebrations of the Bicentenary,” she said. “We are deeply grateful for the kindness with which we have been welcomed everywhere, not least here in Boston.” according to the Times report.

Boston Mayor Michelle Wu reflected on the queen’s 1976 visit in a post to social media on Thursday.

“Boston mourns the loss of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, whose grace & steadfast leadership have inspired generations around the world. Our hearts are with her family, loved ones & the people of the UK,” said Mayor Wu.

Boston mourns the loss of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, whose grace & steadfast leadership have inspired generations around the world. Our hearts are with her family, loved ones & the people of the UK. pic.twitter.com/d8YG7sRYTN
— Mayor Michelle Wu 吳弭 (@MayorWu) September 8, 2022