“Norm!” a voice booms across the crowded room. We’re standing before Cheers Beacon Hill, the real-life inspiration for the iconic television show. Cheers Beacon Hill, originally known as the Bull & Finch Pub, opened its doors in 1969. Long before it became a tourist destination, it was a beloved local haunt. Its cozy, dimly lit interior, with its dark wood and brass accents, exudes a timeless charm. The pub’s founders, Thomas Kershaw and a partner, envisioned a classic English pub, even importing décor from across the pond. One theory suggests the name “Bull & Finch” pays homage to architect Charles Bulfinch, who designed the Massachusetts State House and other notable buildings. Cheers Beacon Hill gained international fame when it was chosen as the exterior for the NBC sitcom “Cheers.” In 1981, the show’s creators were searching for an authentic Boston bar, and the Bull & Finch fit the bill perfectly. For a mere dollar, Kershaw granted permission to use the building’s facade, a decision that would forever change the pub’s destiny. The show’s popularity transformed Cheers Beacon Hill into a must-see destination, drawing fans from all corners of the globe. While locals might have lamented the influx of tourists, the bar’s newfound fame solidified its place in Boston’s cultural landscape. In 2002, the pub officially changed its name to Cheers Beacon Hill, embracing its television legacy. Inside, you’ll find a blend of the old and the new. While the interior doesn’t precisely match the set from the show, there’s a replica bar upstairs. This area offers a taste of the familiar “Cheers” atmosphere that fans crave. The original bar downstairs retains its own unique character, a testament to its history. The bar even has menu sections named after characters from the show, a fun nod to its TV counterpart. So, raise a glass to Cheers Beacon Hill, a place where the spirit of the beloved sitcom lives on. It’s a testament to the power of television and a reminder that sometimes, the best stories are found in the most unexpected places.
Rumney Marsh Burial Ground
A chill wind whispers through the aged headstones. This is Rumney Marsh Burial Ground. This historic cemetery dates back to