City Square Park

Charlestown, MA

The City Square Park project created the first open space as a result of the Central Artery/Tunnel Project. This Project restored historic City Square in the Charlestown neighborhood of Boston to its traditional use as an active, pedestrian-friendly public space. Work included building a large Granite water fountain, installation of several statues/monuments, and construction of extensive hardscape. Site improvements also included granite piers, decorative wrought iron fence, outdoor furniture, brick sidewalks, granite seat walls and planters. Landscaping included “Pine & Swallow” soil specifications and extensive mature tree plantings.

Some of the historic construction undertaken as part of this project included the numbering , removal, restoration and resetting of the stones making up the post holes of John Winthrop’s Great House (c. 1629). McCourt also numbered , removed, restored and reset the foundation of the Three Cranes Tavern (c. 1635) from which Paul Revere began his famous ride.

This park was built at the request of a vocal and active community in Charlestown and is one of the most historically relevant parks in Boston. The Freedom Trail passes through this park allowing tourists to see the location of the Great House and the start of Paul Revere’s Ride. There are several other significant historical landmarks associated with this park. Today the park is maintained in part by the generosity of the non-profit Friends of City Square Park “to ensure the proper maintenance, preservation, beautification, programming, and care of City Square Park and its vicinity, and to encourage an awareness of its history.”

“The site’s sophisticated design elements, gas lights, meandering paths and grassy areas combine to interpret the park’s historic past in a modern fashion.”

– Friends of City Square Park