Is it just me or does this square feel like a portal to Cambridge’s architectural history? I am talking about Harlow Square. This isn’t just another Cambridge neighborhood. Harlow Square is a testament to one man’s vision. It is a tribute to architect Hamilton Harlow.
Harlow, born in 1890, left an indelible mark on Cambridge. His pioneering work introduced large apartment buildings to the city. These buildings significantly shaped the cityscape around Harvard Square. Today, a property listed as being in a “Harlow Building” carries a certain cachet.
Harlow’s architectural journey began at MIT. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Architecture in 1914. His thesis? A design for a Terminal Railroad Station. By 1916, Harlow was already working as an architect in Boston.
In 1919, he partnered with Albert H. Dow and Kenneth C. Kimball. Together, they founded Dow, Harlow, and Kimball. An announcement called Harlow “a well known young Boston Architect.” Kimball specialized in engineering. Dow was an established figure.
However, Harlow’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to strike out on his own. In 1921, he started his own firm. His office was located at 1388 Massachusetts Avenue. Frank S. Harlow, Hamilton’s father, was a builder. Many of Harlow’s architectural plans were for properties owned by his father. By 1927, Harlow’s offices had moved to 4 Brattle Street.
Hamilton Harlow’s legacy extends beyond architecture. He and his wife, Georgeana, had a son named Robert Moore Harlow. Together, they founded Harlow Properties, Inc. For 40 years, this firm managed apartments and performed condominium conversions across Cambridge. Harlow Properties was known for its kindness to tenants facing financial hardship. They developed programs to help elderly tenants and first-time homeowners purchase their units. In 2003, Cambridge honored Robert Harlow with an honorary square. It was a fitting tribute to a family dedicated to the community.
Look around Harlow Square. You will see the tangible results of Hamilton Harlow’s career. Among them are 7 Sumner Road constructed in 1917. Harvard acquired it and converted it to offices in 1976. Also in Harlow Square are Spencer Court and 9 Dana Street that was constructed in 1927.
Other Harlow buildings include 44 Langdon Street constructed in 1915, 7 Linnaean Street and 46 Shepard Street. Note 77 and 79 Martin Street. These brick buildings hold 32 apartments. There is also 11 Story Street which is a stucco building with 25 condominiums. 61 Garfield Street is a 17 unit building.
Harlow also built 52 Garden Street. This brick building has 42 units. It featured an elevator. It was completed in 1924. See Bowdoin Court at 39 and 41 Bowdoin Street. This brick building from 1927 contains 33 units. Lastly, there is 56 Concord Avenue which Harlow completed in 1930.
So, as you explore Harlow Square, remember Hamilton Harlow. Remember a man who shaped Cambridge. Remember that buildings are more than brick and mortar. They embody vision, community, and legacy.