Boston Common

Historic Sites, Est. 1634

Boston Common, established in 1634, is the oldest public park in the United States. This 50-acre oasis is bounded by Beacon, Charles, Boylston, Park, and Tremont streets. It serves as a public park for recreation and is a popular venue for concerts, protests, and softball games.

Originally owned by William Blackstone, the land was a common pasture for grazing cattle. Until 1817, the land was used for public hangings. Over many years, Boston Common has been a site for public celebrations and spirited oratory.

Boston Common has its place in military history, as well. British troops camped here before the American Revolutionary War.

Boston Common is the anchor for the "Emerald Necklace" - 1,000 acres of parkland that stretches from the Charles River to Franklin Park in Dorchester, Massachusetts.

The Freedom Trail, connecting 16 of Boston's most storied landmarks, begins at the Common, which also contains the Robert Gould Shaw Memorial, in honor of Massachusetts' 54th Regiment.

The Boston Massacre Monument, a Civil War memorial, and The Partisans, a tribute to the freedom fighters around the world, can also be seen here.

Park Street Station and Boylston Station, the first and second subway stations in America, are at the northeast and southeast corners of the park. The old Central Burying Ground is at Tremont and Boylston streets of the Common.

The Frog Pond in the Common operates as a wading pool in the summer and a public ice-skating rink during winter. Musical and theatrical performances are held at Parkman Bandstand, at the east end of the park.