http://www.BostonLuxuryRealEstate.com - An historic, even iconic neighborhood of Boston, Massachusetts, Beacon Hill is a neighborhood of Federal style rowhouses and is widely known for it's narrow streets, gas lights, brick sidewalks and "village like" atmosphere. With it's ivy covered fences and lovely gardens, it is widely regarded as one of the most desirable and expensive neighborhoods in Boston. Named for the location of a former beacon atop the highest point in central Boston, the hill and two nearby hills were substantially reduced in height to allow the development of housing in the area. The entire hill was once owned by William Blaxton, the first European settler of Boston; from 1625 to 1635. He eventually sold his land to the Puritans Located just north of the Boston Common and Public Garden, Beacon Hill is bounded by the Charles River, Beacon Street and Cambridge Street. A new station of the MBTA Red Line anchors the north end of the neighborhood, and provides easy commuting options to anywhere in the city and beyond - the perfect neighborhood for those without an automobile. The Gold leaf of the Massachusetts State House Rotunda adorns the hill and shines across the Common. The lively sport of Massachusetts politics is acted out on the grounds of the State House on a regular basis. Across from the State House, the Boston Common Frog Pond is a joyful jewel in this historic park. As a reflection and wading pool in the warmer months with a nearby cafe and playground, it transforms into beautiful skating rink during the winter. Beacon Hill is also home to the real live Cheers bar of TV fame as well as numerous shops, restaurants, professional services, antique shops, apparel stores and boutiques, which dot Charles Street. No WalMarts or Dunkin' Donuts here - Charles Street is filled with unique one of a kind shops and restaurants. These businesses take personal pride in their offerings, with a wide array of food, unusual gifts, apparel and antiques from all over the world. Best of all, you'll very likely be greeted by the store owner for that personal touch! Gary Drug is one of the few independent pharmacies left in America! Whether you need a grocery store, shoe store, or hardware store - it's all within walking distance if you live in Beacon Hill. For its rich heritage, inimitable architecture and its crucial role in the abolitionist movement, the neighborhood was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1962. Beacon Hill has been home to many past and present notable residents over the years, including statesmen John Hancock and Daniel Webster; writers Louisa May Alcott, Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr. and Michael Crichton; senators Henry Cabot Lodge, Charles Sumner, Edward Kennedy and John Kerry; poets Sylvia Plath, Robert Frost, Julia Ward Howe, and Anne Sexton; Supreme Court Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr.; painters John Singleton Copley and Chester Harding; and actors Edwin Booth and Uma Thurman. Beacon Hill is home to a wide variety of residential styles. A great place for families, this historic neighborhood offers a blend of classic Boston architecture and expansive green space. Current housing in Beacon Hill runs the gamut from tiny studio apartments, to grand, single family residences. With the earliest houses dating back to the late 1700s, and new condominiums such as the Tudor, 34.5 Beacon, 50 Beacon and The Amory, and 96 Beacon which offer modern, luxury amenities (some are doorman buildings) along with restored period detail and oftentimes with beautiful views of the Common and the Garden, there is something for everyone in Beacon Hill. The holidays are an especially beautiful time in Beacon Hill. In fact, it feels like you just went back to a quieter time - before shopping malls, cars, and the hustle and bustle. The annual holiday stroll draws people from all over the area. Beautiful Acorn Street is often mentioned as one of the most picturesque (and most frequently photographed) street in the United States. Interesting architectural details, brick row houses with colorful doors, creative door knockers, decorative ironwork, brick sidewalks, narrow streets and real gas lamps make Beacon Hill a feast for the eyes. Once you visit Beacon Hill, you'll see why many find that just living here to be the best attraction of them all! Real estate video tours by http://www.NashuaVideoTours.com

• published: 25 Dec 2010
• views: 15523