Historic Sites

Newton, Massachusetts is well known by residents as ‘The Garden City’. Whether you call Newton home or are simply visiting for the weekend, you should take some time to learn about the city’s rich history. The most popular historic destination is the Newton History Museum at the Jackson Homestead. This culturally rich museum has a variety of permanent and temporary exhibits that show visitors what it would be like to live in Newton when New England was first being settled. There are exhibits that highlight the abolition movement in Newton and how the Jackson family’s home was a stop on the Underground Railroad. Other exhibits include ‘Peeking into Newton’s Toy Chest’a fun way to learn about the values and lessons in our favorite toys, and ‘Four-legged Newton’a family oriented exhibit that explores the connections between animals and people. The museum is home to an extensive library which holds valuable information on the history of Newton available to anyone interested in learning.After you leave the Newton History Museum, try going on a historic walk through Chestnut Hill. The peaceful 1.5 mile walk around the Chestnut Hill Reservoir has a lot of history hidden in its soil. From 1868 up until the 1970s, the Chestnut Hill Reservoir was responsible for supplying Boston with clean water. Along the walk, you will see the Waterworks Building where a member of the Waterworks Museum will show you the steam engines that powered the water distribution back in the 1800s. Uncover the secrets of how the Reservoir was constructed and the effects of converting its original structures into condos. The best part is that the walk and tour is completely free, so you can fill up an entire afternoon of fun without spending any money.