Massachusetts Hall, Boston
Facts and practical information
Massachusetts Hall is the oldest surviving building at Harvard College, the first institution of higher learning in the British colonies in America, and second oldest academic building in the United States after the Wren Building at the College of William & Mary. As such, it possesses great significance not only in the history of American education but also in the story of the developing English Colonies of the 18th century. Massachusetts Hall was designed by Harvard Presidents John Leverett and his successor Benjamin Wadsworth. It was erected between 1718 and 1720 in Harvard Yard. It was originally a dormitory containing 32 chambers and 64 small private studies for the 64 students it was designed to house. During the siege of Boston, 640 American soldiers took quarters in the hall. Much of the interior woodwork and hardware, including brass doorknobs, disappeared at this time. ()
Massachusetts Hall – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)
Nearby attractions include: Club Passim, Memorial Hall, Grolier Poetry Bookshop, The Harvard Coop.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which popular attractions are close to Massachusetts Hall?
How to get to Massachusetts Hall by public transport?
Metro
- Harvard • Lines: Red (1 min walk)
- Central Square • Lines: Red (25 min walk)
Bus
- Harvard Square (3 min walk)
- Massachusetts Ave @ Holyoke St • Lines: 1, 69 (3 min walk)
Train
- Porter (25 min walk)