Mechanics Hall (Boston, Massachusetts) facts for kids
Mechanics Hall was a very important building in Boston, Massachusetts. It stood on Huntington Avenue from 1881 to 1959. A group called the Massachusetts Charitable Mechanic Association asked a famous architect, William Gibbons Preston, to design it. The building was located near the Boston and Albany Railroad tracks. It was torn down in the early 1960s to make way for a big city project called the Prudential Center. Today, the area is served by the Prudential Station on the MBTA Green Line.
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What Was Mechanics Hall Used For?
Mechanics Hall had a very large space inside, like a big hall. This made it perfect for many different events. It was a popular spot for meetings and large gatherings.
A Place for All Kinds of Shows
Over the years, Mechanics Hall hosted many exciting events. People came to see boat shows, where new boats were displayed. There were also auto shows, featuring the latest cars. Dog shows, flower shows, and even sporting events took place here.
For example, in 1883, a special group held a huge exhibit. It showed "foreign arts, manufactures and products" from other countries. That same year, the Olympian Club put on a "floral display and costume carnival." This fun event even included indoor rollerskating!
Home to Sports
Mechanics Hall was even a sports venue for a short time. It was the home court for the Boston Whirlwinds. This was a professional basketball team from the American Basketball League.
What Happened to Mechanics Hall?
Mechanics Hall stood for many years, but eventually, the city of Boston had new plans for the area. The building was demolished in 1959. This was part of a big project to rebuild and modernize that part of the city.
Where Is the Site Today?
Today, the spot where Mechanics Hall once stood is home to a modern building. It is now the location of 111 Huntington Avenue. Even though the building is gone, its history as a busy community hub is still remembered.
Image gallery
- Mechanics Hall, Huntington Avenue (1881–1959)
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Rollerskating, 1883 (photo by A.N. Hardy)
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Detail of 1888 map of Back Bay, showing the new Mechanics Hall on Huntington Ave.
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Sportsman's Show, Mechanics Hall, 19th century
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Sportsman's Show, Mechanics Hall, 19th century
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Advertisement for auto show, 1911
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Mechanics Hall, Huntington Ave., 1920
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Mechanics Hall, 1959
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Mechanics Hall, 1959
