Built in 1713, The Old State House is the oldest surviving public building in Boston, and the seat of the first elected legislature in the New World. On July 18, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was proclaimed from the east side balcony to jubilant crowds by Col. Thomas Crafts (one of the Sons of Liberty). It is now operated by the Bostonian Society, Boston's historical society. It is one of the most popular historic landmarks along the Freedom Trail.