Walking Day 1

Boston Commons

Although separated from Boston Public Garden by only Charles Street, Boston Common has a much longer history. Established in the 1630s as a common land for "the feeding of Cattell" it also provided a "trayning field" for the colony's militia. From 1768 to 1776 it served as a camp for British soldiers, while almost a century later the men of Massachusetts gathered here before marching off to the Civil War. The cows were removed by order of Mayor Harrison Gray Otis in 1830, as he and his fellow Beacon Hill home owners thought it inappropriate to overlook cattle.

Boston Common Civil War Monument

The Civil War monument, near the centre of Boston Commons, and located at its highest point. The inscription reads To the men of Boston who died for their country on land and sea in the war which kept the Union whole, destroyed slavery and maintained the Constitution, the grateful city has built this monument that their example may speak to coming generations. Martin Milmore was the sculptor.

View from Civil War Monument over Back Bay area

Looking from the monument across the Public Garden (the area with all the trees!) to the city skyline, including the Prudential Tower - located about mid picture, just near the tree.

Interesting roof garden, viewed from Boston Common

A roof garden! An apartment house with a wonderful view over Boston Commons.

Massachusetts State House (under renovation, with 'decorative' covering)

The State House (what Australian's would call Parliament House), currently wrapped up while undergoing renovations.

Park Street Church, from Boston Commons (corner), as seen from Commons

The Park Street Church, located on the eastern end of Boston Commons, and marking the end of the downtown area.

Granary Burying Ground

Located just a few doors away from the Park Street Church, this is an historic cemetry, containing the graves of several well known and important patriots. Information about this area and those buried here is also available.

Samuel Adams grave, Granary Burial Grounds

Samuel Adams was one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, and described as "The Grand Incendiary", a powerful advocate of independence. The other two signers buried here were Robert Treat Paine and John Hancock.

Paul Revere grave, Granary Burial Grounds

Paul Revere's headstone. He was a silversmith and engraver, and became famous for riding to Lexington to warn Hancock and Adams "the British are coming".

Boston Gardens Environs

Old State House, Downtown right arrow