Scollay Square | Boston, United States

Introduction to Scollay Square

Located in the heart of Boston, Scollay Square was a vibrant historical landmark and cultural tourist attraction until its dramatic transformation in the 1960s. Named after William Scollay, a local developer and militia officer, this area flourished as a unique intersection of commerce, culture, and city life from the early 19th century until its demolition and redevelopment into today's Government Center.

Historical Background

Scollay Square was situated at the intersection of Tremont and Court streets, near other prominent thoroughfares like Cornhill and Tremont Row. The name "Scollay Square" was officially adopted by the city in 1838, after locals had long referred to the area by that name following William Scollay's acquisition of a notable four-story merchant building in 1795.

In its heyday, Scollay Square was a bustling commercial hub. Noteworthy figures such as Josiah Johnson Hawes, the early daguerreotypist photographer, and Dr. William Thomas Green Morton, who pioneered the use of ether as an anesthetic in dentistry, contributed to its rich heritage. The architecture once featured a mix of wooden and brick structures, including the famous Scollay Building itself, though much of this was lost over time.

Cultural Sites and Vibrant Entertainment Venues

Scollay Square’s fame grew partly thanks to its lively entertainment scene. Perhaps the most iconic venue was the Old Howard Theatre, originally a religious headquarters before transforming into a vaudeville theater presenting Shakespearean plays, minstrel shows, and later, burlesque. It attracted a wide spectrum of audiences, from college students to sailors on leave, earning its slogan "Always Something Doing." Boxing matches featuring stars like Rocky Marciano added to the vibrant atmosphere.

Other nearby theaters such as the Casino Theater and Crawford House also contributed to the area's reputation for nightlife and performances. Additionally, Austin and Stone's Dime Museum located in the square served as a quirky cultural hotspot showcasing various oddities.

Scollay Square and Cultural Heritage: Abolitionism and Civil Rights

Scollay Square was also a significant site for Boston’s abolitionist movement. William Lloyd Garrison faced violent backlash for publishing his anti-slavery newspaper, The Liberator, in this area. Moreover, Sarah Parker Remond made an early stand against racial segregation at the Old Howard by challenging discriminatory seating policies. Many buildings in Scollay Square had secret spaces used to hide escaped slaves, making it an important stop on the Underground Railroad.

Decline, Destruction, and Redevelopment

Following World War II, Scollay Square had become a faded and somewhat notorious area known for its shanty-like conditions and red-light district reputation. The burlesque scene at the Old Howard, which had been the square’s entertainment staple, contributed to its decline. A controversial 1953 incident led to the theater's closure, and a mysterious fire in 1961 further marked the end of an era.

By the 1950s, city planners initiated a large-scale redevelopment project that demolished over 1,000 buildings and displaced 20,000 residents. The old Scollay Square was replaced with city landmarks such as Boston City Hall, City Hall Plaza, and the Government Service Center — all part of a new complex known as Government Center. This transformation erased much of the original architectural and cultural identity but aimed at modernizing downtown Boston.

Scollay Square in Popular Culture

• Pearl Schiff’s 1952 novel Scollay Square portrayed the area's gritty social life, stirring controversy.
• Jack Kerouac’s On the Road shares memorable scenes set in local taverns around the square.
• The Kingston Trio’s song “M.T.A.” immortalizes the nearby subway station and its connection to Scollay Square.
• Modern pop culture references include the video game Fallout 4, where the fictional town of Goodneighbor draws inspiration from Scollay Square’s history.

Exploring Scollay Square Today

While the original Scollay Square no longer exists as it once did, its legacy lives on through self-guided tours and historical studies of Boston’s urban evolution. Visitors interested in historical landmarks and cultural heritage can explore the Government Center area, reflecting on the layers of history beneath its modernist architecture.

For those eager to immerse themselves in Boston's layered past at their own pace, audio tours like the Echoes of Revolution: Boston's Landmark Odyssey offer an engaging way to discover the city’s vibrant neighborhood stories, including Scollay Square's pivotal role in shaping Boston’s identity.

Key takeaway: Scollay Square stands as a testament to Boston's evolving cityscape—from a dynamic hub of culture and entertainment to a symbol of urban renewal and historical reflection.

For an unforgettable journey through Boston’s iconic city landmarks and immersive landmark tours, be sure to check out the Echoes of Revolution: Boston's Landmark Odyssey tour.