Historic Gardens
The present garden was begun in 1995 as a volunteer project of the Old North Church Gardeners—members of the church’s congregation and North End neighbors. The plants and shrubs are such as were used in the late 18th century and are suitable for the partial shade and clay soil of this city setting.
The Gardeners welcome the opportunity to display annuals and perennials from the 18th Century, many of which are less commonly seen in public areas. We’ve planted annuals with charming names like “Love-in-a-Mist”, “Pincushion Flower”, “Four O’Clocks”, and “Painted Lady” sweet pea. Some plants were grown from seed on windowsills in the North End of Boston, and others under artificial light in “sun-challenged” apartments.
| 18th Century Garden | ||||||||||
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| Kiss-me-over-the-garden-gate (Polygonum orientale), the flamboyant deep rose spikes towards the back of the garden, is a smartweed that’s a native of Asia and Australia. Behind it is life-of-man (Aralia racemosa) of the ginseng family that has dark purple berries in late summer. Blooming beside the path is white-pink bouncing bet, or soapwort (Saponaria officinalis). Colonists bruised leaves to make a soapy lather. An annual is black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta), a North American native. This bright yellow flower will bloom into October. Daisy-like fleabane (Erigeron) drives away bugs (such as fleas) when smoked. Hidden under big leaves is orange nasturtium (Tropacolum majus), known as Indian cross. It was grown as an edible plant by Thomas Jefferson. | ||||||||||
| St. Francis of Assisi Garden | ||
The Chapel of St. Francis was built to meet the needs of Italian immigrants who belonged to the Waldensian Reform movement. Following the dispersal of this small community this building found new use as the Old North Church Museum and Gift Shop. The St. Francis Garden evolved in the 1970′s to remember the Waldensian presence and commemorate the links between the 1723 church and the 1918 chapel. |
| Washington Memorial Garden | ||
The Washington Memorial Garden on the north side of the church provides a cloistered area where the many people who walk The Freedom Trail can rest and meditate. The care of this garden over many years and the sponsorship of a redesign competition are the work of the Beacon Hill Garden Club. Seen here is the entry to the garden which features a walkway to view the many plants and commemorative plaques. |
| The Third Lantern Garden | ||
The Third Lantern Garden has begun rennovations. With its abundant shade and commemorative fountain, the garden provides an oasis to visitors on a hot summer day. Throughout the growing season the Old North Gardeners are evaluating the light and soil conditions in the garden so that they might prepare a design appropriate for a quiet shade garden. |
