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Boston's Oldest Buildings and Where to Find Them: A Guide to the City's Architectural Heritage

George R.R. Martin

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Boston is a city with a rich and fascinating history, and its architecture is a reflection of that. From the colonial era to the present day, Boston has been home to some of the most beautiful and iconic buildings in the country. This book will take you on a tour of some of Boston's oldest and most interesting buildings, providing you with a glimpse into the city's past and present.

Boston's Oldest Buildings and Where to Find Them

by Joseph M. Bagley

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	59477 KB
Print length	:	248 pages

Chapter 1: The Colonial Era

Boston's colonial era began in 1630, when the Puritans founded the Massachusetts Bay Colony. The early colonists were deeply religious, and their architecture reflected their beliefs. The meetinghouse was the center of Puritan life, and many of the early churches in Boston are still standing today. One of the most famous is the Old North Church, which played a key role in the American Revolution.

Another important type of colonial building was the townhouse. Townhouses were typically built by wealthy merchants and professionals. They were usually made of brick or wood, and they often had elaborate facades. Many of Boston's townhouses have been converted into commercial buildings, but a few still remain as private residences.

Chapter 2: The Federal Era

The Federal era began in 1789, when George Washington was elected the first president of the United States. This period was marked by a growing sense of national pride, and Boston's architecture reflected this. Federal buildings were typically more elegant and sophisticated than colonial buildings. They often had classical details, such as columns and pediments.

One of the most famous Federal buildings in Boston is the Massachusetts State House. The State House was designed by Charles Bulfinch, one of the most prominent architects of the Federal era. It is a beautiful building with a grand facade and a magnificent interior.

Chapter 3: The Victorian Era

The Victorian era began in 1837, when Queen Victoria ascended to the British throne. This period was marked by a great deal of economic growth and prosperity, and Boston's architecture reflected this. Victorian buildings were often more ornate and elaborate than Federal buildings. They often had turrets, gables, and stained glass windows.

One of the most famous Victorian buildings in Boston is the Trinity Church. Trinity Church was designed by Henry Hobson Richardson, one of the most prominent architects of the Victorian era. It is a beautiful building with a soaring spire and a magnificent interior.

Chapter 4: The 20th Century

The 20th century was a time of great change for Boston. The city's population grew rapidly, and its economy boomed. This growth led to a new wave of construction, and many new buildings were built in Boston during the 20th century.

One of the most famous 20th-century buildings in Boston is the John Hancock Tower. The John Hancock Tower was designed by I.M. Pei, one of the most prominent architects of the 20th century. It is a soaring skyscraper with a distinctive glass facade.

Chapter 5: The 21st Century

The 21st century is still in its early stages, but Boston's architecture is already changing. The city is home to a number of new, innovative buildings, and it is clear that Boston's architectural heritage will continue to evolve in the years to come.

One of the most famous 21st-century buildings in Boston is the Institute of Contemporary Art. The ICA was designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro, one of the most prominent architecture firms in the world. It is a beautiful building with a distinctive glass facade and a rooftop terrace.

Boston is a city with a rich and fascinating architectural heritage. This book has taken you on a tour of some of Boston's oldest and most interesting buildings, providing you with a glimpse into the city's past and present. We hope that you have enjoyed this journey through Boston's architectural history.