Boston Common

Historical Significance

Boston Common, established in 1634, is the oldest public park in the United States. Spanning 50 acres, it sits within a pentagon-shaped area bordered by Tremont, Park, Beacon, Charles, and Boylston Streets. The park is not only a green urban retreat but also a historical landmark that reflects nearly four centuries of American history.

Initially used as a communal grazing pasture for livestock, Boston Common later evolved into a vital space for colonial militia drills, public executions, and community gatherings during the American Revolution. Over time, it transformed into a landscaped park that today serves as a hub for recreation, social gatherings, and civic activities.

Management and Support

The park is managed by the Boston Parks Department and supported by the Friends of the Public Garden, a dedicated non-profit group.

Winter ice skating at Boston Common Frog Pond illuminated by colorful lights

Park Features

Visitors can explore various features within the park, such as the famous Frog Pond, which offers seasonal activities like ice skating in winter and a splash pool for children in summer. The Central Burying Ground, located along Boylston Street, contains historical graves, including those of prominent figures like Gilbert Stuart and Samuel Sprague.

Brewer Fountain Plaza, near Park Street Station, offers a lively area with food trucks and seasonal programs. A recent addition, "The Embrace," is a bronze sculpture honoring the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King.

The Embrace sculpture stands as a striking bronze monument in the park

Part of Boston's Landscape

Boston Common is part of Boston's "Emerald Necklace," a connected system of parks and parkways. It also marks the southern end of the Freedom Trail, making it a starting point for city tours.

The park hosts numerous events, ranging from concerts and festivals to political rallies, and welcomes an estimated seven million visitors annually.