Boston: Votes for Women History Tour of Back Bay

The Boston: Votes for Women History Tour of Back Bay offers a compelling journey into the city’s crucial role in the women’s suffrage movement. Priced at $35 per person and lasting approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, this small-group tour is led by knowledgeable local guides who bring Boston’s history to life. With a maximum of 16 guests, the experience emphasizes personalized storytelling and in-depth insights into key figures and sites from 1870 to 1920.

This tour is perfect for those interested in women’s rights history, Boston landmarks, and vibrant neighborhood walks. The tour departs from Make Way for Ducklings at 4 Charles Street and concludes near Boston Women’s Memorial on Commonwealth Avenue, making it easy to explore further or connect with public transportation after. While the tour covers many iconic locations, be prepared for extended standing, and note that museum interior entries are not included. Overall, it offers a balanced mix of cultural education and scenic city views.

Key Points

• Affordable, engaging history: The tour costs just $35 and provides a rich look at women’s suffrage history in Boston.
• Expert guides: Guides like Clio, Leah, Sarah, Kaitlin, and Leah are praised for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and storytelling ability.
• Iconic landmarks: The route visits Boston Common, Public Garden, Copley Square, Boston Public Library, and more.
• Focus on women’s rights figures: Stops include homes of notable activists, the Boston Women’s Memorial, and landmarks tied to suffrage organizations.
• Small-group intimacy: With up to 16 guests, the tour allows for more interaction and personalized attention.
• Flexible cancellation: Free if canceled 24 hours in advance; weather cancellations are handled easily.

Boston’s Women’s Rights Landmarks and Their Stories

The tour begins at Boston Public Garden, established in 1837 as the first public botanical garden in the U.S. Here, the guide highlights Nancy Schön’s sculpture based on Robert McCloskey’s book and other key statues, setting the tone for a neighborhood layered with history.

Next, the walk takes visitors to First Church in Boston, dating back to 1630. This site became a hub of the Transcendentalist movement, and the tour stops at the homes of Elizabeth Putnam, Kate Gannett Wells, and Mary Shreve Ames, notable figures in Boston’s anti-suffrage and suffrage debates. These stops offer insights into contrasting perspectives during the movement.

Exploring Boston’s Historic Public Spaces

The College Club of Boston stands out as the first women’s college club in the U.S., with a lovely avenue lined with trees, parks, and statues. This area reflects Boston’s commitment to women’s education and social organizing. The tour then passes by the Museum of Natural History, which housed the Museum of Natural History from 1864 to 1951, adding an academic flavor to the route.

Copley Square is a highlight, built to serve as Boston’s cultural hub. The 1877 Copley Square building is recognized as one of the top ten in the country by the American Institute of Architects. Nearby, the offices of pro-suffrage organizations like the Massachusetts Woman Suffrage Association once occupied buildings here, anchoring Boston’s pivotal role in the movement.

The Boston Public Library and Marathon Finish Line

The Boston Public Library, founded in 1848, ranks as the third-largest public library in the U.S.. This site is also the finish line of the Boston Marathon, linking athletic achievement with social progress. The tour briefly discusses the demolished Kensington Building, which once housed an anti-suffrage organization, highlighting the contrasting voices in Boston’s history.

Honoring Women’s Contributions at the Boston Women’s Memorial

The tour’s concluding stops include the Boston Women’s Memorial, depicting figures like Abigail Adams, Phillis Wheatley, and Lucy Stone. It’s a powerful tribute to women who influenced Boston’s and America’s history. Nearby, the homes of Abigail Williams May and Julia Ward Howe showcase the homes of influential women involved in education and activism.

Walking Through Beacon Street and the Victory Parade Route

The tour’s final segment takes a stroll along Beacon Street and Exeter Street. This area was the starting point for the 1915 Suffrage Victory Parade, making it a significant site in Boston’s women’s rights history. Stops include Blanche Ames, a pro-suffrage cartoonist and birth control advocate, and historic houses like the 1859 residence with preserved interiors.

The Guides and Their Storytelling Styles

Throughout the tour, guides like Sarah, Leah, Kaitlin, Clio, and Leah receive acclaim for their depth of knowledge and engaging storytelling. Reviews highlight their ability to answer questions, humanize historical figures, and bring the stories to life. Their enthusiasm ensures that the 2.5-hour walk feels lively and informative.

Practical Details and Logistics

Beginning at Make Way for Ducklings on Charles Street, the tour covers key landmarks in the Back Bay neighborhood. It is suitable for individuals with moderate physical fitness, as standing is involved, but it is not recommended for those who struggle with extended walking or standing. The tour is weather-dependent, with free cancellations offered 24 hours in advance.

Public transportation options are nearby, making it easy to continue exploring Boston after the tour ends beside the Boston Women’s Memorial on Commonwealth Avenue. The tour’s mobile ticket ensures smooth entry, and optional gratuities for guides are customary but not included.

Why This Tour Excels for History Enthusiasts

The high ratings and reviews consistently praise the knowledge and passion of the guides, especially in storytelling and answering questions. The tour effectively humanizes women’s history through stories about activists, landmarks, and social movements tied to Boston. It combines scenic streets with meaningful history, making it both educational and enjoyable.

Final Words on the Boston Votes for Women Tour

This tour provides a thoughtful look at Boston’s role in the women’s suffrage movement, blending landmark visits, storytelling, and local insights. It’s particularly suited for history buffs, women’s rights supporters, and anyone interested in Boston’s landmark neighborhoods. The small-group format encourages engagement, and the affordable price offers excellent value.

While it doesn’t include museum entries and involves some standing, the expert guides and compelling stories make it a standout experience in Boston’s rich cultural landscape. For those wanting to explore Boston’s history from a fresh perspective, this tour offers a well-organized, engaging, and meaningful journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Boston Votes for Women History Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, covering key landmarks in the Back Bay neighborhood.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Make Way for Ducklings on Charles Street and concludes near the Boston Women’s Memorial on Commonwealth Avenue.

What is included in the price?
The cost includes the guided walking experience in the Back Bay neighborhood and visits to women’s rights landmarks. Museum entries are not included, and gratuities are optional.

Is this tour suitable for all physical levels?
The tour requires moderate physical activity withstanding extended standing and walking. It may not be suitable for those with difficulty standing for long periods.

Can I cancel the tour easily?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with full refunds offered if canceled within that window.

Are guides in period costumes?
No, guides are not dressed in period costumes, but they are praised for their knowledge and storytelling skills.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, as long as participants are comfortable with walking and standing, this tour suits families, history enthusiasts, and adults interested in Boston’s social history.

Can I join this tour if I have special accessibility needs?
The data does not specify accessibility accommodations, so it’s best to contact Hub Town Tours directly at +1 844-482-8696 or [email protected] for specific inquiries.

What makes this tour different from other Boston history tours?
The focus on women’s suffrage history, combined with small-group intimacy and expert guides, sets it apart, offering a specialized perspective on Boston’s social activism.

Would you recommend this tour?
Absolutely. The consistently high ratings, engaging guides, and meaningful stops make it a valuable addition to any Boston itinerary, especially for those keen to learn about women’s rights and Boston’s role in that history.