Doesn’t the name Meetinghouse Hill just conjure images of early American life? This is one of the oldest sections of Boston’s Dorchester neighborhood. Meetinghouse Hill holds a significant place in history.
Originally called Rocky Hill, Meetinghouse Hill got its name from the puddingstone outcroppings. They lined its eastern slope. In 1673, oxen moved the First Parish Church to the top. That’s how it became Meetinghouse Hill. The church’s relocation bolstered the hill’s importance. It made it central to town affairs.
Let’s talk about the First Parish Church. It was established in 1631. The church has been rebuilt several times. It became a Unitarian church in the early 19th century. Reverend Thaddeus Mason Harris led during this time. The current structure dates back to 1897. It overlooks a triangular park. This park was once Dorchester Common. It is now named for Reverend James K. Allen.
Also on Meetinghouse Hill is the Mather School. Established in 1639, it is the oldest public elementary school in North America. The Mather School was rebuilt near the church in 1694.
Meetinghouse Hill also has a Civil War monument. It stands in the park near the First Parish Church. Erected in 1867, it honors Dorchester’s fallen soldiers.
Coppen Square is another notable spot here on Meetinghouse Hill. It is a small green space. It sits at the corner of Bowdoin and Quincy Streets. Once Eaton Square, it was named for Percival Eaton. The Eaton family ran a tavern there. This was from the American Revolution to the Civil War. Wagoners gathered there before the Fortification of Dorchester Heights. Coppen Square is also home to the Lyman Memorial Fountain.
From 1804 to 1846, Mrs. Judith Foster Saunders and Miss Clementina Beach ran an academy for young ladies. It was located at Adams and East Streets. The girls learned many skills. They studied reading, writing, and sewing. They also learned French and painting. The school became known for exquisite embroideries.
Lyceum Hall was an important community center. Built in 1838, it hosted lectures and dances. It also held school classes. Abolition groups met there. It even served as a recruiting depot during the Civil War. Sadly, it was demolished in 1955.
In the mid-19th century, many Irish Catholics settled in Dorchester. Saint Peter’s Church was built on Bowdoin Street. This served the growing immigrant population. Father Peter Ronan was the first pastor. Designed by Patrick Keely, it was built from puddingstone. The church once had 22,000 members.
Many buildings in this area were built in the 19th century. Some homes near the First Parish Church date back to the Federal Period. Shepard’s Bakery was famous for its ‘Lection cakes.’ The firehouse on Parish Street was established around 1870.
In 1912, the City of Boston acquired the Capen family estate. They turned part of it into Ronan Park. The Olmsted Brothers designed it. The park offers amazing views of Boston Harbor.
Meetinghouse Hill has seen many demographic shifts. It evolved from an English Protestant community to a diverse area. It is now home to many ethnic groups. A Multicultural Festival is held each summer in Ronan Park. It celebrates the area’s diverse heritage.
The top of Meetinghouse Hill is the highest point in Dorchester. The view inspired artists and poets. Childe Hassam loved growing up here. He appreciated the beauty of the white church against the blue sky.