What if I told you that this unassuming hill was once a landmark for ships entering Boston Harbor? Welcome to Single Tree Hill. It is the highest point in Brookline. At 340 feet, Single Tree Hill holds a special place in the town’s history.
Let’s uncover the layers of history that make Single Tree Hill so captivating. A large solitary tree once stood proudly on its summit. This tree served as a guide for vessels navigating into Boston Harbor. Imagine sailors of old spotting that lone tree. They knew they were nearing their destination.
Single Tree Hill has been known by different names. It was also called Lyman’s or Cabot’s Hill. Several prominent families owned land here. The White family was among the first. John White emigrated to Watertown in 1638. He later moved to Muddy River now Brookline. By 1650, he had acquired over 300 acres. His sons signed the petition for Brookline’s independence.
Jonathan Mason Jr. purchased the estate from Deacon Benjamin White in 1792. He used it as a summer house. His father, Jonathan Sr., was a successful Boston merchant and Son of Liberty. Jonathan Jr. became a U.S. Senator.
In 1799, Thomas H. Perkins bought 53 acres near Single Tree Hill. Perkins was a wealthy Boston merchant. He helped start the Boston Museum of Fine Arts. He also supported the Massachusetts General Hospital. The Perkins School for the Blind was renamed in his honor. Perkins traded in flour and dried fish. He also traded opium for resale in China.
The Cabot family became involved through marriage. Thomas H. Perkins’ daughter Elizabeth married Samuel Cabot Jr. She received land in Brookline. Finally, Theodore Lyman Jr., Boston’s mayor, bought the Mason estate in 1841. He tore down the old house. Then he built a new mansion.
Today, Single Tree Hill stands as a testament to Brookline’s rich past. It connects us to the families who shaped this town. Take a moment to appreciate the views from Single Tree Hill. Think about the ships that once used that solitary tree. They navigated their way to Boston. The echoes of history linger here. This hill is a reminder of Brookline’s enduring legacy.