Black heritage trail in Boston, Massachusetts

Welcome to the Boston National Historical Park - Charlestown Navy Yard, a captivating destination where America's fight for freedom comes alive. Located in the heart of Boston, Massachusetts, this historical gem invites you to delve into the stories and events that shaped a nation. Immerse yourself in the spirit of the Revolution as you explore the Cradle of Liberty, the site of the first major battle of the American Revolution. Uncover Boston's rich abolition history along the Black Heritage Trail on the north slope of Beacon Hill, and ponder the complex identities of those deemed "Enemies to This Country" as the War for Independence loomed.

Discover the Black Heritage Trail® in Boston Welcome to the Black Heritage Trail®, a captivating journey through Boston's rich African American history. Located at 46 Joy Street, Boston, Massachusetts, this trail is a vital part of the Boston African American National Historic Site. Immerse yourself in the stories of courage and resilience that have shaped the city's cultural landscape.

UMass Boston, located at 100 Morrissey Boulevard in Boston, Massachusetts, is a diverse and vibrant school that offers over 200 undergraduate and graduate programs. As the most diverse college campus in New England and the third most diverse in the U.S., UMass Boston celebrates and champions diversity. Students can choose from in-person, hybrid, and online options to tailor their education to their needs. The institution encourages students to become Beacons and bring their unique backgrounds and experiences to enrich the community. With easy access to public transit, students can explore internships downtown, catch a play in the Theater District, or cheer on the Red Sox at Fenway Park. Boston offers a variety of cultural experiences, from trying a bánh mì sandwich in Dorchester to exploring the murals in Roxbury.

The Innovation Trail offers a unique way to experience, learn about, and be inspired by four centuries of groundbreaking innovations that originated in Boston. Whether you join one of our scheduled walking tours or use our website as a guide for your own stroll, you'll explore the rich history of science, medicine, entrepreneurship, and technology that has shaped the modern world. Our aim is to inspire you to create the next great innovation!What to Expect: When people think of Boston, they often think of the American Revolution or its prestigious educational institutions like MIT, Harvard, and Northeastern. While the Freedom Trail highlights the city’s revolutionary past, The Innovation Trail focuses on the remarkable advancements that followed America's independence and the establishment of early schools like Boston Latin (1635) and Harvard (1636). Boston’s legacy of innovation was built on a foundation of independence and education, bolstered by societal changes such as the abolition of slavery, women’s suffrage, waves of immigration, and marriage equality. These factors allowed a diverse group of people to collaborate on research and company formation, funded by investors, universities, and government agencies. This thriving innovation ecosystem has significantly contributed to shaping our modern world.Who Should Visit:

Welcome to The North End – Italian Neighborhood, your ultimate guide to experiencing the vibrant heart of Boston’s “Little Italy.” Nestled at 14 North Square in Boston, Massachusetts, this charming enclave is a captivating blend of rich history, diverse culture, and exquisite cuisine. Whether you're a local or a visitor, The North End offers a delightful journey through time and taste. Discover the allure of the North End, one of Boston's oldest residential areas, where the echoes of early European settlers mingle with the lively spirit of Italian immigrants. As you stroll through its narrow streets, you'll be greeted by rustic Italian street signs and the irresistible aroma of authentic Italian cuisine emanating from over 100 restaurants, cafés, and bakeries. From traditional dishes to innovative culinary delights, the North End is a paradise for food lovers.

The Lewis & Harriet Hayden House, located at 66 Phillips Street in Boston, Massachusetts, is a historic site that served as a prominent Underground Railroad safe house in the 1850s. The Haydens, who had escaped slavery in Kentucky, settled in Boston and operated this house as a boardinghouse, providing shelter and assistance to many freedom seekers. Lewis Hayden was an active member of the Vigilance Committee, aiding in the rescue of fugitives and playing a crucial role in high-profile Fugitive Slave Law cases. The house is listed on the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom and is part of the Black Heritage Trail®. Please note that the house is a private residence and not open to the public.

Tantiusques is a historic park and tourist attraction located at 493 Leadmine Road in Sturbridge, Massachusetts, United States. Visitors can follow a loop trail through quiet woodlands and explore the site of a former lead mine that was used by Indigenous peoples and later by European settlers. The name "Tantiusques" comes from a Nipmuc word meaning "to a black deposit between two hills," reflecting the site's history as one of New England's first mines. The Nipmuc tribe originally mined graphite at Tantiusques to make paints, and in 1644, John Winthrop, Jr. purchased the mine with hopes of extracting lead and iron. The site has a rich history, with Frederick Tudor shipping around 30 tons of graphite per year to Boston between 1829 and 1860. Visitors can explore the mine cut along the ridge, which is a partially filled-in trench that once followed the vein of graphite.

The African Meeting House, located at 8 Smith Court in Boston, Massachusetts, is a museum that holds significant historical importance. The Abiel Smith School, the oldest public school in the United States built for educating African American children, is where visitors can purchase tickets, explore exhibitions, and shop at the museum store. The African Meeting House, the oldest existing black church building in the nation, is the last stop on the Black Heritage Trail®. This trail consists of 14 sites and offers self-guided tours starting at the Robert Gould Shaw Memorial on Beacon Street. The museum is open for talks, tours, events, and more, showcasing the rich history of the free African American community prior to the Civil War. Visitors can take walking tours led by interpretive National Park Service Rangers, Boston African American National Historic Site (BOAF). The museum is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. For those driving to the museum, there are parking garages nearby. The historic African Meeting House is also available for weddings, lectures, concerts, film screenings, and other special events, offering seating for 180 guests and beautiful outdoor courtyards for receptions.

Welcome to Bakers Island Light Station Nestled off the coast of Salem, Massachusetts, on the picturesque Bakers Island, the Bakers Island Light Station stands as a beacon of history and natural beauty. Managed by the Essex National Heritage Commission (Essex Heritage), this historic site invites you to explore its rich heritage and breathtaking surroundings.

The John Coburn House, located at 2 Phillips Street in Boston, Massachusetts, is a historic tourist attraction with a rich history. Built in the mid-19th century, this home was once owned by John P. Coburn, a prominent clothes dealer and community activist. Coburn's involvement in the abolitionist movement and his support for freedom seekers on the Underground Railroad are well-documented. He also played a key role in founding the Massasoit Guards, an unsanctioned Black militia group that served as a force for community self-defense. Although the house is not open to the public, visitors can learn about its significance as a site on the Black Heritage Trail®. The John Coburn House stands as a reminder of the important contributions made by African Americans in Boston's history, and the ongoing struggle for equality and justice.

Welcome to Theresa Hynes Park, a serene oasis located on William Jackson Avenue in the vibrant city of Boston, Massachusetts. Nestled in the heart of the 02135 area, our park offers a perfect escape for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to unwind amidst beautiful surroundings. Theresa Hynes Park is dedicated to honoring the legacy and contributions of Black Bostonians, celebrating the rich cultural tapestry that makes our community unique. Whether you're taking a leisurely stroll, enjoying a picnic, or participating in one of our community events, you'll find a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere here.

University Hall is located on University Drive North in Boston, Massachusetts, United States. This university offers over 200 undergraduate and graduate programs, with options for in-person, hybrid, and online learning. Known for its commitment to diversity, UMass Boston is proud to be the most diverse college campus in New England and the third most diverse in the U.S. Students are encouraged to bring their unique backgrounds and experiences to enrich the community as Beacons. The campus is conveniently located near public transit, making it easy for students to access internships downtown, enjoy shows in the Theater District, or cheer on the Red Sox at Fenway Park. With vibrant neighborhoods like Dorchester and Roxbury nearby, students can explore cultural landmarks, murals, and delicious cuisine, such as bánh mì sandwiches.

Located at 36 Loring Boulevard in Plymouth, Massachusetts, the University of Massachusetts is a diverse and vibrant institution offering over 200 undergraduate and graduate programs. Whether you prefer in-person, hybrid, or online learning, UMass Boston has a program for you. As the most diverse college campus in New England and the third most diverse in the U.S., we welcome students from all backgrounds to enrich our community as Beacons. Immerse yourself in the bustling city of Boston with easy access to public transit and a plethora of cultural experiences. From internships downtown to Broadway shows in the Theater District, there is always something exciting to do. Explore the rich Asian-American culture in Chinatown, sample a bánh mì sandwich in Dorchester, or admire the historic sites along the Freedom Trail and Black Heritage Trail.

The John J Smith House, located at 86 Pinckney Street in Boston, Massachusetts, is a historic site dedicated to the life and legacy of John J Smith, a prominent figure in the abolitionist movement and state legislator. Smith, a barber by trade, used his shop as a center for community organizing and abolitionist activities in the 1800s. He fought for equal school rights and played a key role in the rescue of Shadrach Minkins, a fugitive slave. Smith also recruited for African American regiments during the Civil War and served in the Massachusetts House of Representatives. The John J Smith House is a part of the Black Heritage Trail® and is a private residence, not open to the public. Visitors can learn about Smith's contributions to his community through business, activism, and politics through various historical resources and publications.

Welcome to West Street Urban Wild, a hidden gem nestled at 2 West Street in the heart of Boston's Hyde Park neighborhood. As a vital component of the Urban Wilds Initiative, West Street Urban Wild is dedicated to preserving Boston's natural treasures for both current and future generations. This serene oasis offers a rare piece of greenspace along the Neponset River, providing a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life. The West Street Urban Wild is part of the larger Stony Brook Reservation ecosystem, featuring a diverse landscape that includes a healthy cattail marsh, upland forests, and a variety of wetland species. This unique habitat supports a range of wildlife, including the rare spotted turtle, making it a valuable ecological site.