Boston, Massachusetts

North Square Park, nestled in the heart of Boston's historic North End neighborhood, is a hallowed ground steeped in centuries of American history.

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About This Location

North Square Park, nestled in the heart of Boston's historic North End neighborhood, is a hallowed ground steeped in centuries of American history. This charming square has witnessed pivotal moments, including the original Old North Meeting House and the residence of Increase Mather, head of Harvard College and church pastor. Paul Revere's iconic home, dating back to 1680, graces one side, while Lieutenant Governor Thomas Hutchinson's former residence, tragically destroyed by a mob in 1765, once stood nearby on Garden Court. Since the 1950s, North Square has been an integral part of the Freedom Trail, guiding visitors through Boston's rich heritage.

A recent restoration project, commissioned by the City of Boston, has transformed North Square into an accessible and captivating focal point for both residents and tourists. To achieve this, traffic flow was redirected, allowing for more pedestrian-friendly spaces. The addition of four new sculptures brings history to life, depicting the square's historical appearance, its relation to other Boston landmarks, an interactive nautical-themed sculpture, and past celebrations held in the square. The restoration extended to the 19th-century gas lamps, which were meticulously refurbished with new glass and burners, and the cobblestones, which were cleaned and rearranged in the new layout. The historic chain encircling the square, a nod to construction styles developed in the Charlestown Navy Yard, was also revitalized and opened in sections for enhanced accessibility. Overcoming challenges such as re-carving the Freedom Trail's inlay in the historic granite sidewalks and navigating a complex network of underground utilities and vaults, North Square stands as a shining example of successful placemaking within a dense, historic urban core. Managed by the Boston Preservation Alliance, North Square Park continues to be a cherished symbol of Boston's rich history and vibrant community spirit.

Location Features

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Locations

Address:
Moon Street, Boston, Massachusetts

GPS Coordinates:
42.363921, -71.053403
Directions to location:
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Directions to parking area:
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Parking Notes:
Parking in the North End can be hard. There are many metered parking spots along nearby Atlantic Avenue. There are also large public parking lots such as Sargent’s Wharf Public Parking which holds over 100 cars.

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