Boston Common

Boston Common

Massachusetts

85/10090 min

Boston Common, established in 1634, is the oldest city park in the United States, spanning 50 acres in downtown Boston. It serves as a historic urban green space bounded by Tremont Street, Park Street, Beacon Street, Charles Street, and Boylston Street. Initially used as a cow pasture and later as a site for public hangings, the Common evolved through centuries into a vibrant public park. It is part of Boston's Emerald Necklace park system and neighbors the Boston Public Garden. The park features the Central Burying Ground, resting place of notable figures such as artist Gilbert Stuart and composer William Billings. Over time, the Common witnessed key historical events including militia mustering during the American Revolution, British troop encampments, and civil rights rallies. Today, it offers recreational amenities like ballfields, a children's playground, and the Frog Pond, which transforms seasonally into an ice skating rink and spray pool. The park remains a central venue for public assembly and celebrations, reflecting Boston's deep historical and cultural heritage.

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Tipp: The best times to visit Boston Common are spring through fall when the park's natural beauty and recreational areas are most accessible. Visitors are encouraged to purchase tickets or passes for special events or guided tours in advance when available. Discounts may be offered to seniors, students, and local residents. The park is easily accessible via public transportation, and the visitor center on Tremont Street provides helpful information and maps. Winter visitors can enjoy ice skating at the Frog Pond, while summer offers water play for children.

Interessante Fakten

  • Boston Common is the oldest public park in the United States, founded in 1634.
  • The park was once used for public hangings, including the execution of Quaker Mary Dyer in 1660.
  • It served as a military muster ground during the American Revolution and hosted British troops from 1768 to 1776.
  • The Central Burying Ground within the Common contains graves of notable figures like Gilbert Stuart and William Billings.
  • During World War II, much of the park's iron fencing was donated for scrap metal to support the war effort.

Geschichte

1634

Boston Common was established in 1634 after William Blaxton sold most of his land to Governor John Winthrop, forming the town commons.

1817

Initially used as grazing land for cattle, the Common later became a site for public executions until 1817, including the hanging of Quakers known as the Boston Martyrs.

Throughout the 18th century, it served as a gathering place for public speeches and militia mustering during the American Revolution.

1977

The park has since transformed into a public recreational space and landmark, designated by the Boston Landmarks Commission in 1977.

Ortsführer

1
Central Burying Groundestablished 1756

A historic cemetery located on the Boylston Street side of Boston Common, it contains the graves of prominent early American figures including artist Gilbert Stuart and composer William Billings, as well as Samuel and Charles Sprague, notable for their roles in the American Revolution and early American poetry.

2
Frog Pond

A seasonal recreational feature of Boston Common, the Frog Pond serves as an ice skating rink during winter and a spray pool for children in the summer, providing year-round family-friendly activities within the park.

3
Visitor Center

Located on Tremont Street, the Visitor Center offers information about Boston Common, maps, and guidance for tourists exploring the park and surrounding historic sites.

Kontakt

Map