Rowes Wharf facts for kids
Rowes Wharf is a famous spot in downtown Boston. It's a modern area built in 1987. Many people know it for the Boston Harbor Hotel's huge archway. This arch stretches over a big public space. This space connects Atlantic Avenue to the Boston Harbor waterfront.
Along the waterfront, you can find many fun things. There's a marina for boats and several restaurants. You can also catch a boat at the water transportation terminal. In the summer, a floating stage hosts free concerts and movies.
You can take MBTA boats from Rowes Wharf to Hingham. Water taxis also run from here to Logan International Airport. Plus, you can hop on cruise boats for a trip around the harbor.
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Discovering Rowes Wharf's Past
Rowes Wharf has a long and interesting history. It started as a defense point for Boston. Over time, it grew into a busy shipping area.
Early Days: A Fort and First Wharves
Back in 1666, a protective fort was built here. It was called the "Sconce" or "South Battery." This fort was at the base of Fort Hill. It helped guard Boston Harbor.
In the 1740s, the fort was made even bigger. It had 35 cannons to protect the city. Later, in 1764, a merchant named John Rowe bought the land. He built the very first Rowes Wharf. It reached a short way into Boston Harbor.
Right next to it, Foster's Wharf was built in 1765. It stood where the old fort used to be. Foster's Wharf was first called "Apthorp's Wharf." Its original owner, Charles Ward Apthorp, supported the British during the American Revolution. After the war, his land was sold. William Foster bought it in 1782. But Rowes Wharf has always kept John Rowe's name. For about 150 years, these wharves were very important for shipping.
Changes Over Time: Trains and New Buildings
In 1875, a new train line opened. It was called the Boston, Revere Beach and Lynn Railroad. A ferry service started from Rowes Wharf. It took people across the water to the train's station in East Boston.
Later, in 1901, the Atlantic Avenue Elevated train line was built. It had a station right at Rowes Wharf. This connected the wharf to Boston's subway system.
However, things changed by the mid-1900s. Both the ferry and the elevated train closed down. The wharf became old and run-down. Shipping patterns had changed, and the area wasn't as busy.
Modern Rowes Wharf: A New Beginning
The wharf stayed in poor condition until the 1980s. Then, a big new project began. The modern Rowes Wharf building was finished in 1987. It was designed by Adrian Smith for a company called Skidmore, Owings and Merrill.
Today, the Boston Harbor Hotel is the main part of this new building. It's a beautiful and busy place once again!
See Also
- John Rowe (merchant)
