Charlestown Heights facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Charlestown Heights
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 Location in Boston
Location in Massachusetts
Location in the United States
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| Location | Boston, Massachusetts |
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| Area | 3.8 acres (1.5 ha) |
| Built | 1891 |
| Architect | F.L. Olmsted & Co. |
| Architectural style | Moderne, urban designed landscape |
| NRHP reference No. | 97000969 |
| Added to NRHP | January 8, 1998 |
Charlestown Heights is a cool city park in the Charlestown neighborhood of Boston, Massachusetts. You might also hear it called Doherty Playground or Doherty Park. It's a special place because it was designed by a very famous landscape architect, Frederick Law Olmsted.
Olmsted created five small parks for Boston. His idea was to make green, open spaces in busy city areas. These parks gave people a place to relax and play. Charlestown Heights is one of these important parks. It sits on the north side of Bunker Hill. The park slopes down from Bunker Hill Avenue to Medford Street.
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What is Charlestown Heights?
Charlestown Heights is a park that opened in 1895. It was planned in the early 1890s. The park is split into three main parts. Each part offers something different for visitors. It's a great spot to learn about history and have fun.
A Park Designed by a Famous Architect
The park was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and his company. Olmsted is known for designing many famous parks. One of his most famous works is Central Park in New York City. He believed that everyone should have access to nature. Even in crowded cities.
Olmsted's design for Charlestown Heights was very thoughtful. He wanted to create a peaceful escape. He also wanted to provide space for active play. His original plans included specific areas for different activities.
Exploring the Park's Different Areas
Charlestown Heights has three distinct levels. Each level offers a unique experience. You can find quiet spots and places for games.
The Top Level: A Quiet Promenade
The highest part of the park is next to Bunker Hill Avenue. This area is a flat, open space. It's perfect for a quiet walk. You'll find green grass and many trees here. There are also paths and benches where you can sit. A special monument stands here. It remembers the 1775 Battle of Bunker Hill. A line of trees runs along the street. This creates a beautiful walkway.
The Middle Level: Fun and Games!
The large central part of the park is full of activities. This area has changed the most from Olmsted's first design. It includes the Clougherty Pool complex. This complex has a swimming pool. It also has a bathhouse designed by John M. Gray. The bathhouse has a modern style. This level also offers basketball courts. There is a playground for younger kids. You can also find a wading pool here. It's a great spot for sports and play.
The Lower Level: Nature's Path
The lowest part of the park is next to Medford Street. This section is a sloping meadow. It has natural-looking pathways. These paths wind through the grassy area. You can take a peaceful stroll here. The stairs in this section are special. They have granite steps. The sides of the stairs are made of puddingstone. Puddingstone is a type of rock.
A Historic Landmark
Charlestown Heights is an important historical site. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1998. This means it's recognized for its historical value. It's a place that tells a story about city planning. It also shows how parks can improve city life.
