Hidden in plain sight, Eliot Hall has witnessed the ebb and flow of Jamaica Plain life since 1832. Eliot Hall stands proudly on Eliot Street, a two-story beacon of history. It’s named, not for the Apostle to the Indians, but because it sits on land once owned by the Eliot School. The land, originally donated by Reverend John Eliot, was partially sold off to support the school in the 1820s. The hall, built shortly after the fourth Eliot School in 1832, bears a striking resemblance to the schoolhouse. Its Greek Revival/Italianate architecture whispers tales of a bygone era. While its original purpose remains shrouded in mystery, one thing is certain: Eliot Hall has always served the public. Perhaps it functioned as a temporary town hall, a gathering place for the burgeoning community. The Footlight Club, America’s oldest continuing amateur theatrical organization, found its home within Eliot Hall’s walls in 1878. Imagine the echoes of laughter and applause, the hush of anticipation before the curtain rises. This isn’t just a building; it’s a living testament to the power of community and the enduring magic of theatre. The Footlight Club not only performs here but also manages and maintains the hall, ensuring its legacy continues. They even established the Trustees of Eliot Hall to oversee much-needed renovations, saving this historic gem from demolition and securing its place on the National Register of Historic Places in 1988. Eliot Hall stands as a testament to the dedication of the community that cherishes it.
Rumney Marsh Burial Ground
A chill wind whispers through the aged headstones. This is Rumney Marsh Burial Ground. This historic cemetery dates back to