South Boston is one of the oldest and most historic neighborhoods in Boston. It has been made more famous by movies like The Departed, becoming the most vibrant and exciting area for over a decade now.
As known by locals, Southie has a cultural scene, robust arts, and top tourist destinations.
South Boston History
Puritans settled the South Boston area in 1635. The area was a grazing area until the 18th century. South Boston was connected to downtown Boston by bridges in the early 19th century.
The peninsula had rapid industrial development, including foundries, machine shops, and glassworks that brought in immigrants who relocated to the lower end of Southie. George Washington famously forced British troops to move out of cannon on Dorchester Heights on St. Patrick’s Day in 1776.
The fortification was switched with Fort Independence on South Boston’s Castle Island. Edgar Allen Poe was stationed there briefly. It was his revelation for the Cask of Amontillado.
South Boston transportation and location
It is located to the east and south of the Fort Point Channel, along Dorchester Bay. It was once mostly separated from the mainland now expanded by landfills. Two miles south of downtown Boston, you will find the neighborhood.
It also includes many smaller neighborhoods such as City Point, Telegraph Hill, Fort Point, West Broadway, and the evolving Seaport District.
In the central area of Southie, you will find Dorchester heights, downtown views, and Boston harbor. The area codes here are 617 and 857, respectively.
You will want to know how to move around in South Boston. The T offers subway, bus, and boat services. The MBTA Red Line subway serves South Boston at the Andrew stations and Broadway. The bus service connects these Red Line stations with different surrounding areas on various routes such as 5, 7, 9, 10, and 11.
Additionally, you can enjoy water transit if living on South Boston’s waterfront. The seaport ferry is a commuter ferry service that connects the waterfront docks with the airport and many other destinations.
There are also private shuttles such as Channel Center, Cultural Connector, and the Southie shuttle.
The South Boston people and culture
The place is an extended home to the city’s descendants and most destitute immigrants. It is known as one of the most exciting places to live in Boston. South Boston apartments don’t stay on the market long, as demand is high for housing. The neighborhood is a sight to behold, with gourmet markets, arts and entertainments, a fun waterfront area, and charming row houses.
Southie boasts of a strong Irish identity. It is because of its large area and waterfront location hence protective feeling and fierce localism against newcomers. There has been a noticeable change in South Boston for over a decade.
The Chinese, Albanians, and Dominicans are the largest group of immigrants here.
Final remarks
There are countless things to explore in South Boston. The list of endless activities and attractions for millennials, families, and singles cannot be exhausted. After all, South Boston could be your retirement place for you and your family.