“Central what?” I imagine that’s what many thought when Cambridge was expanding. Central Square wasn’t always the bustling hub it is today. Once, the distance between Boston and Cambridge was quite long. It was a whole eight miles.
The construction of the West Boston Bridge changed everything in 1793. This bridge shortened the trip to just 3.5 miles. Suddenly, Central Square became a desirable location. New roads and businesses began to emerge.
By 1888, Cambridge’s City Hall found its home here. This made Central Square the administrative center. People came to acquire legal documents and visit the post office. The 1880s brought a population boom to Central Square. Many Irish immigrants and Boston workers arrived.
Central Square thrived until the world wars. The subway system made it a prime shopping destination. It became the downtown of Cambridge.
However, the 1970s brought challenges. People moved to the suburbs. The government planned a highway that would cut through Central Square. This plan never materialized. It did decrease property value and made it more difficult for property loans.
But Central Square has experienced a revival in the last 20 years. New businesses and restaurants have opened. Today, you can find nearly anything. You can find an ice cream store or an art supply shop.
Central Square has also been a hub for activism. In the 1960s, the area changed. Universities grew and students sought housing. Working-class families began to leave Central Square.
The Simplex Wire and Cable Company closed in the 1960s. MIT purchased the site in 1969. This sparked fears about the future of housing. A community group formed to advocate for neighborhood priorities. They wanted low-income housing and community services.
Public art reflects the spirit of Central Square. The Crosswinds mural celebrates diversity. Graffiti Alley showcases ever-changing artistic expression. The Potluck mural displays a multi-ethnic image of the community.
During the 1960s and 1970s, Central Square housed activist businesses. Anti-war organizations and feminist publications operated here. The Cambridge Food Co-Op allowed members to work in exchange for food.
The Cambridge Women’s Center started in 1971. It offered skills training and a sense of community. The center inspired the creation of other organizations. Transition House and the Boston Area Rape Crisis Center both originated here.
Cambridge City Hall has been the site of protests and debates. Activists have fought for diversity and against police brutality. In 2004, City Hall hosted the country’s first same-sex wedding ceremony.
Central Square’s history is one of constant change. It is a place where communities come together. It has been shaped by immigration, activism, and the pursuit of a better future. As we stand here, remember the stories of those who shaped this vibrant square.