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the gift to Boston of Peter Faneuil, a merchant. The hall was begun in 1740. It was designed to be both a market-house and a place of public meeting. In 1761 it was destroyed by fire. It was restored in 1763, and was used as a theatre during the British occupation of Boston, in 1775. In 1805 it was enlarged by the addition of a third story and an increase in width. During the Revolution it was the usual meeting place of patriots, and was the scene of many stirring debates and important resolutions. It has been called the " Cradle of American Liberty."