Literary Landmarks in Boston
Home to more than 100 colleges and universities, the Greater Boston area is rich with academia, resulting in an extensive literary history and countless emerging writers. From Nathaniel Hawthorne and Ralph Waldo Emerson to Louisa May Alcott, the Greater Boston area is the perfect spot for a Bibliophile traveler.
Check out these spots to fuel your yearning for literary culture!
The House of Seven Gables: The setting of Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel of the same name, this is a unique historical landmark in the heart of Salem. Built in 1668, it is New England’s oldest wooden mansion and houses many secrets that are unveiled to each visitor during a tour up the winding staircases to the gables.
Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard Home: Located in Concord, MA, this house brings the characters and setting of Alcott’s Little Women to life. The original setting of the book, the house showcases the real family behind the words and their accomplishments in politics, writing, theater, and philosophy. The family’s artifacts can be seen as well as the memorable architectural details of the house the Alcotts knew and loved.
The Swan Boats of Boston: From The Trumpet of the Swan to Make Way for Ducklings, the swan boats have been a cherished landmark since the 1870s. The boats are the only ones of their kind in the world and they provide a quiet and leisurely solace from the bustle of the city. The famed statue ducklings from Make Way for Ducklings can also be found in the Boston Public Garden and are perfect for a photo opportunity with children!
While you’re in the Garden, stop by the Boston Common Frog Pond for ice skating in the winter, or a wading pool to cool off in during the summertime! A wonderful stop for the whole family, this pond is open year round.
Old Manse: This landmark was once respite for Henry David Thoreau, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and Ralph Waldo Emerson. Today guests can view Hawthorne’s writing desk, a re-creation of Thoreau’s vegetable garden, and the inspiration for Emerson’s “Nature” essay. Near the Concord River, guests can hike from the Old Manse to the North Bridge and enjoy the outdoor atmosphere of a place rich with literary history.
Concord Museum: Not only can guests view the famed lantern from Longfellow’s “Paul Revere’s Ride,” but the world’s largest collection of Thoreau’s possessions and the contents of Emerson’s study. Built in 1886, this museum also has Walden Pond memorabilia on display, as well as decorative arts from the 17th through the 19th centuries. A special exhibit entitled “Building Thoreau’s boat,” will be on display until January 6, 2008.
Jamie Agnello is a travel writer for Smart Destinations, a travel company headquartered in Boston, MA. She enjoys gallivanting around the city of Boston, artsy endeavors, being a foodie, and writing lyric essays and poetry.
