Beacon Hill in Boston in Suffolk County, Massachusetts — The American Northeast (New England)
The Mason Houses
Beacon Hill
Photographed By J. Makali Bruton, June 14, 2021
1. The Mason Houses Marker
Soon after 1800, freestanding mansions surrounded by gardens became a luxury even the rich could scarcely afford on Beacon Hill. One of the few who could was Jonathan Mason. About 1800, he built a mansion and gardens (both demolished now) just west of here. Up the street he built several row houses, two of which survive intact at 55 and 57 Mt. Vernon Street. Some historians believe he settled his married daughters here, although he himself always retained title to the houses.
All residences in this neighborhood are private.
Erected by Boston 200. (Marker Number BH14.)
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Architecture. A significant historical year for this entry is 1800.
Location. 42° 21.504′ N, 71° 3.961′ W. Marker is in Boston, Massachusetts, in Suffolk County. It is in Beacon Hill. Marker is at the intersection of Mt. Vernon Street and Walnut Street, on the right when traveling west on Mt. Vernon Street. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Boston MA 02108, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. The Historic Beacon Hill District (a few steps from this marker); 20 Pinckney Street (within shouting distance of this marker); 40-42 Mt. Vernon Street (within shouting distance of this marker); Chestnut Street
this page online
Photographed By J. Makali Bruton, June 14, 2021
2. The Mason Houses and Marker
The marker is attached to a railing just left of center above a gray car. The buildings to the left and center are 55 and 57 Mt. Vernon Street, so the marker may have been moved at some point.
Credits. This page was last revised on January 30, 2023. It was originally submitted on June 29, 2021, by J. Makali Bruton of Accra, Ghana. This page has been viewed 261 times since then and 56 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on June 29, 2021, by J. Makali Bruton of Accra, Ghana.
