What do the oldest black church in the country, an Arts-and-Crafts-style
artists' studio building, a concrete football stadium, and an
acoustically perfect performance space have in common? They are all
National Historic Landmarks located in Boston. In fact, the city boasts
more National Historic Landmarks per square mile than any other major
city in the country. Given Boston's long history and record of
accomplishments, it's really not surprising that 57 properties--from the
nation's oldest subway tunnel to a floating lighthouse--have received
this designation. Add in the adjoining cities of Cambridge and Brookline
and the number swells. Historic Boston includes the most rewarding and
easily visited landmarks. That's a lot of history in 103 square miles.
The Secretary of the Interior designates the status of National Historic
Landmark to places considered "exceptional because of their abilities to
illustrate U.S. heritage." More simply put, they are the places that
resonate broadly with us, that we cherish, and want to pass on to future
generations. The list is surprisingly diverse. In metro Boston, it
includes an historic church with a stunning collection of Tiffany
windows, a Transcendentalist community, a Grand Banks schooner, and the
home and studio of landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted.
