1859 Cole View of South Boston, Massachusetts

This is a charming view of South Boston in 1859, drawn by the artist Joseph Foxcroft Cole. It depicts a beautiful view of the Dorchester Heights area of South Boston. The intersection of G Street at Thomas Park can be seen in the foreground, with the park and part of the South Boston Reservoir on Telegraph Hill on the left of the view.

Built in 1849, the South Boston Reservoir was used for water supply to the local area until 1872. It was demolished in 1899 and replaced by the South Boston High School in 1901. Thomas Park, which offered magnificent views of the city, was built in 1852 following the leveling of Telegraph Hill.

Fourth Street can be seen in the middle ground, with the Charles River near the horizon. Throughout, the view offers beautiful scenes from life in Boston during the mid 19th century, with carriages, people on horsebacks, and walking along the paths. Along the bottom of the view, five vignettes are included. These depict the residence of Fredrick Nickerson, Broadway on the corner of G Street, Fort Independence, Residence of Dr. Samuel Gridley Howe and the Residence of Samuel R. Spinney.

This view was drawn and published by Joseph Foxcroft Cole in 1859. We do not normally offer maps in this condition, however, this being a rare piece, is offered here at a low price.