Thrillist – a popular travel Web site on social media – recently named Beacon Hill the “most beautiful neighborhood in America,” ranking it top among 10 contenders.
“Between the red brick sidewalks, the classic Georgian architecture, and the gaslights casting their amber glow down the narrow streets, this gorgeous colonial ‘hood stands out from the rest of Beantown,” Gianni Jaccoma wrote in crowning the Hill to the top slot. “Beacon Hill’s filled with little streets and avenues that lend the area a distinctly European atmosphere, and striding down the mossy cobblestones of Acorn Street feels like traveling back in time to the founding of the nation.”
Upon learning of the accolade, Mayor Martin Walsh said, “Beacon Hill is one of the oldest neighborhoods in America, full of historic sites and landmarks that represent the hopes and determination of our city. Beacon Hill residents are committed to preserving the neighborhood’s charm and character, and that pride reverberates across every street and alleyway. As mayor, I love all of Boston’s neighborhoods, and am proud that one of them has topped this list.”
The award can also be viewed as a testament to the pivotal role the Beacon Hill Civic Association (BHCA) has played in protecting the neighborhood’s historic and residential character.
“Our goal is to preserve the historic character and enhance the quality of life on Beacon Hill,” BHCA Chair Keeta Gilmore wrote in an e-mail. “Beacon Hill is architecturally distinct and known for its beautiful doors, brick sidewalks, gas lights, flowering trees, window boxes and hidden gardens. Its architecture, mostly brick row houses built during the 1800s, includes the Federal, Greek Revival and Victorian periods. Beacon Hill is the only neighborhood in Boston designated as a National Historic Landmark.”