The Boston Common

Boston Common, Job #00946, Boston, MA

Olmsted Archives

Quick Facts

Location:

Boston, MA

Significance:

Olmsted Designed Landscape

MANAGED BY:

Friends of the Public Garden

The oldest park in the United States, the Common has been shared land since 1634 and holds a unique place in the history of Boston and the nation. Though the landscape has changed from pastures and militia training grounds to a well-loved park with open lawns, shaded pathways, ballfields, tennis courts and a playground, the Common remains an active meeting ground in the heart of historic Boston. For over 350 years it has been a center and a mirror of civic life. 

Source: "Boston Common," The Cultural Landscape Foundation

For more information and primary resources, please visit:
Olmsted Research Guide Online
Olmsted Archives on Flickr
Olmsted Online