John Eliot Square District

John Eliot Square District is a historic area in northern Roxbury, Boston, located where five streets intersect. It features Federal Period architecture and several protected buildings, including a house dating from 1750.

The area was founded in 1630 as the center of Roxbury town and was an important early settlement location in Massachusetts. It was named after John Eliot, a missionary who translated the Bible into the language of the Wampanoag people.

The oldest wooden meeting house in Boston stands here, reflecting the early building traditions of New England. The church and surrounding structures show how communities shaped their spiritual and social spaces.

The area is walkable and connects to nearby Roxbury Heritage State Park, where additional local history information is available. Visitors can freely explore the park grounds and the district's streets to see the historic buildings and their architecture.

A marker on the Knox Trail commemorates the movement of cannons from Fort Ticonderoga through this area during the American Revolution. This route was critical for supplying the Continental Army with essential artillery.

Location: Massachusetts

GPS coordinates: 42.32972,-71.09083

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:14