Sept. 29 Soap & Bones Recap: A Benefit for History Cambridge

Hosted by History Cambridge’s Board President Amy Devin at her Cambridgeport home, our soap and bones gave a sneak peek into our plans to celebrate the neighborhood throughout 2023.

The event included a short presentation by Charles Sullivan, Cambridge Historical Commission, who explored the area of CPort known as “Greasy Village” and the unique history of this part of the city.

Why Soap & Bones?

The history of Cambridgeport is rich and diverse. For example, did you know that the eastern edge of the neighborhood once housed factories, such as the Reardon Soap Works? Making soap required animal parts, including bones and fat, which is very slippery. All these activities gave this area of Cambridge the nickname “Greasy Village.” Join us on Sept. 29th to learn even more!

Photo courtesy Historic New England

From the Host

“Cambridgeport has been home now for almost twenty years. And while we love the neighborhood’s proximity to city life, its many green spaces and old Victorian homes, it is the community that keeps us here. It is our neighbors on Henry Street, the families of Tot Lot and the Morse School, the people you run into in Hastings Square or at the corner store that are the reason we’ve put down roots here. I know we’re just one of many families from past and present to feel that way about Cport, and I hope History Cambridge’s upcoming year exploring the neighborhood can tap into that connection.”

— Amy Devin