Boston Common - Execution of Mary Dyer

Mary Dyer, a Quaker who repeatedly defied Massachusetts Bay Colony prohibitions on Quaker worship, was executed by hanging on Boston Common on June 1, 1660; colonial records document the event. The Common has since served as Boston's central public park and the site of numerous historic events. Modern interpretation of the site includes recognition of its colonial-era history and the execution of religious dissenters such as Dyer.