Learn About Charlestown, Massachusetts
Charlestown Overview
City History:
Charlestown is a historic neighborhood in Boston, Massachusetts, located on a peninsula north of the city center. It was one of the earliest settled areas in the Massachusetts Bay Colony, founded in 1628 and incorporated as a city in 1848. Charlestown played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War, as it was the site of the Battle of Bunker Hill in 1775. The neighborhood has a rich history and is known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture.
Interesting Facts:
- Charlestown is home to the oldest commissioned naval vessel still afloat, the USS Constitution.
- The Bunker Hill Monument, a 221-foot granite obelisk, commemorates the Battle of Bunker Hill.
- The Charlestown Navy Yard was once a major hub for shipbuilding and is now a national historic park.
Interesting People:
- Paul Revere, a famous American patriot, lived in Charlestown.
- Samuel Morse, the inventor of the telegraph and Morse code, was born in Charlestown.
Top Attractions in Charlestown:
- USS Constitution Museum
- Bunker Hill Monument
- Charlestown Navy Yard
- Warren Tavern
Top Attractions Nearby:
- Freedom Trail
- Faneuil Hall Marketplace
- Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum
- New England Aquarium
Population History:
Charlestown has a population of around 16,000 residents. The neighborhood has seen a resurgence in recent years, with new development and an influx of young professionals and families.
Geography:
Charlestown is located on a peninsula between the Charles River and the Mystic River. It is bordered by the neighborhoods of East Boston, Somerville, and the Charles River.
Economy:
Charlestown has a diverse economy, with industries such as healthcare, technology, and education driving growth in the area. The neighborhood is also home to the Schrafft's City Center, a mixed-use development with office space and retail stores.
Culture:
Charlestown is a vibrant neighborhood with a strong sense of community. The annual Bunker Hill Day Parade and Battle of Bunker Hill reenactment are popular events that celebrate the neighborhood's history.
Notable Landmarks:
- USS Constitution
- Bunker Hill Monument
- Charlestown Navy Yard
- Warren Tavern
- Paul Revere House