“What echoes now where kings once decreed?” That is the question that comes to mind as we stand here in Ordway Brothers Square. The square sits on a site rich with Boston history. However the story I am about to tell you might not be what you expect. This is the story of Ordway Hall.
Ordway Hall was not just any building. It was a theater established around 1852 by John P. Ordway. He also managed the hall. It became known for something quite specific negro minstrelsy. Ordway even had his own troupe called the Ordway Aeolians.
Imagine back then the Old Province House. It was transformed. The rear of 165 and 171 Washington Street became a concert room. It was named Ordway Hall. A description from the time paints a picture of comfort and amusement. It was well-ventilated, supposedly conducted on the best principles. The Aeolians performed nightly concerts as citizens and darkies. The building’s exterior got a yellowish mastic coating. Its interior was remodeled to accommodate the vocalists.
A travel guidebook in 1856 recommended Ordway Hall. It noted how the walls that once echoed with kings’ decrees now rang with negro minstrelsy. The hall was popular. Order was preserved, and anything offensive was banished.
Famous minstrels like Lon Morris and Billy Morris performed here. P.S. Gilmore began his career at Ordway Hall. He played the tambourine as an end-man. E. Kelly served as musical director in 1858. James McGee was the business manager.
Even Edward Payson Weston had a connection to Ordway Hall. Before becoming a famous pedestrian, he sold candies here as a 12-year-old boy. He worked during each secular evening. The Parent Washington Total Abstinence Society held weekly meetings in Ordway Hall. During the celebration for Benjamin Franklin’s statue, Ordway Hall was decorated with flags. There was also a portrait of Franklin.
Not all events at Ordway Hall were celebratory. In 1860 police arrested a woman here for being in male attire. This event provides a glimpse into the social tensions.
By 1864 Morris Bros., Pell & Trowbridge had taken over the hall. However Ordway Hall’s time was limited. On October 25, 1864 a fire gutted the interior. Only the walls remained. After the fire the building was converted into an office building.
Ordway Hall hosted a variety of events. These included performances of Uncle Tom’s Cabin. Buckley’s Serenaders also graced the stage. George Christy’s Minstrels performed here. Amanda M. Spence a psychic medium held séances.
So as you stand in Ordway Brothers Square remember the echoes of Ordway Hall. Think about minstrel shows and the start of P.S. Gilmore’s career. Remember the building’s transformation into office spaces. While the hall is long gone its story remains part of Boston’s cultural history. It highlights the city’s diverse past. It also underscores the ever-changing nature of urban spaces.