Commonwealth Avenue Mall

Historic Design

Designed in 1856 by Arthur Gilman in the French boulevard style, this 32-acre linear park stretches from the Boston Public Garden to Kenmore Square. It serves as the central spine of the Back Bay neighborhood and forms a crucial link between the Public Garden and Frederick Law Olmsted's Emerald Necklace park system.

The Mall features a wide central promenade flanked by rows of trees, creating a cathedral-like canopy that provides shade and beauty. Originally planted with American and European elms, the park now hosts a diverse array of tree species including sweetgum, green ash, maple, linden, zelkova, and Japanese pagoda trees.

Notable Monuments

Throughout its length, Commonwealth Avenue Mall is adorned with several notable statues and monuments. These sculptures, added over the years since 1865, commemorate various historical figures and events.

They range from Revolutionary War heroes to more modern memorials, offering visitors glimpses into Boston's rich history as they stroll along the promenade.

Community Space

The Mall not only serves as a picturesque walkway but also as a vital green space for the densely populated Back Bay area. It provides residents and visitors alike with a place for relaxation, light recreation, and community gatherings.

The park's design, with its uniform setbacks and architectural harmony of surrounding buildings, creates a unique urban landscape that has become an iconic part of Boston's cityscape.

Preservation Efforts

Despite facing challenges such as Dutch Elm disease and the pressures of urban development, Commonwealth Avenue Mall has been preserved through the efforts of community organizations and the city.

Today, it continues to be a testament to 19th-century urban planning and landscape design, offering a serene natural corridor in the heart of Boston.