Ever wonder why Hyde Park is known as “A Small Town in the City?” Let me tell you a story. It is a story about how this southernmost neighborhood of Boston maintains its unique identity.
Hyde Park’s story began in the 1660s. It evolved into a manufacturing center for paper and cotton by the 18th century. The arrival of rail lines from Boston in the 1850s spurred residential growth.
In 1845, Henry Grew discovered this area. He was taken by the beautiful view of the Blue Hills. Grew bought hundreds of acres and settled here in 1847. He became a prominent citizen, even chairing Hyde Park’s first board of selectmen.
Alpheus Perley Blake is considered the founder of Hyde Park. In 1856, he organized the Fairmount Land Company. This led to a bridge over the Neponset River and a new train station.
By 1867, the area had six railroad stations. A formal petition was made to the General Court. After settling disputes with neighboring towns, Hyde Park was incorporated in 1868. It included land from Dorchester, Milton, and Dedham.
Hyde Park remained part of Norfolk County until 1912. That year, it voted to be annexed by Boston. It became Boston’s last major addition through annexation.
Hyde Park played a role in societal change. The 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, one of the first African-American units in the U.S. Army, trained at Camp Meigs in Readville. Hyde Park was home to abolitionists Sarah and Angelina Grimké, and Theodore Dwight Weld. Weld Hall in Hyde Park is named after him.
In the 1960s, Hyde Park almost seceded from Boston. This was due to plans for a Southwest Expressway that would have divided the neighborhood.
Hyde Park has a history of industry. For over 100 years, it was home to the Westinghouse Sturtevant Corporation. The Readville area housed the Stop & Shop warehouse until the early 2000s.
Hyde Park is home to many churches. Most Precious Blood, Saint Adalbert’s and Saint Anne’s Roman Catholic churches are some of them. The Episcopal Parish of Christ Church is also here. It is the oldest parish in Hyde Park.
Hyde Park is also the birthplace of the Boston Crusaders. This world-class drum and bugle corps was founded in 1940.
Hyde Park residents have always been active in their community. Sisters Sarah Moore Grimké and Angelina Emily Grimké were important figures in ending slavery and promoting women’s suffrage.
Today, Hyde Park is a diverse neighborhood. It is known for its strong community spirit. You can find it in the many shops and restaurants along Hyde Park Avenue, River Street, and Fairmount Avenue.
The George Wright Golf Course is a popular spot for city residents. It is one of two public courses in the area. Former Mayor Thomas M. Menino was a lifelong resident of Hyde Park.
Hyde Park’s motto reflects its character. It offers a suburban feel within the city limits. Its residents value community and history. They created a place that feels like a small town. That is the story of Hyde Park. A story of community and resilience. A story still being written today.