Diary of David Hall, March 11-25, 1770

These are entries in the diary of David Hall, a resident of Boston, dated March 11, March 18, and March 25, 1770. He writes about the "Dark day" of the Boston Massacre, which had occurred just six days prior. A week later, his diary entry indicates his struggle to make sense of the events.

March 121 [1770]

I find years heavy upon me now in my 66th and fears are on every side. a striking news attends yt. last Monday a Regular officer with 50 men marched near the Rope workes in Boston wr the Regulars had been troublesome ye week before. They now fired yr. pieces. 8 of ym. Killed 3 men on ye spot. Wounded many 2 of wh. died the next Morning. that sd officers and souldiers are taken into Custody. that Roxbury Militias were raised & came into Town. And yt Regulars be removed. and yt ye Governer was Constrained to send ym. to ye Castle. Wt will be ye consequence we know not. O yt. God could appear for us in this Dark day. & may God help me this day to Deliver a word in season

March 198 

The striking news of ye Regulars not Just as we heard. yet not less affecting: I change to Day. Lord go with me. & overrule all things for us. I find my heart disposed to trust in God. Let me not be ashamed.

March 25.

Preached. Lecture Wednsday at 5. Goldthrights I have been poor in health but tho exposed this Cold season (wc. hath been uncommon of late) to much exercise abroad I find it hath been helpful to me. God can suit me to my Condition The Lord help me this day according to his Mercy . . .

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Original document and transcription courtesy of the Massachusetts Historical Society. Access it here.