Neighborhood History Centers

From The Port to Porter Square, from Harvard to Strawberry Hill, Cambridge’s neighborhoods have evolved through the centuries but always have their own special stories to tell. Every year we’ll highlight a different pocket of the city in our Neighborhood History Centers, based in community centers, store fronts, and public spaces around town.

Yellow Map of Cambridge with Cambridgeport highlighted in green

In 2023, we begin this initiative with Cambridgeport, recognizing that it is a dynamic and diverse neighborhood with a fascinating history. Our overarching goal is to engage residents in discussions about the relevance of the neighborhood’s history as well as building a more complete and nuanced historical record.

Blue Map of Cambridge with North Cambridge highlighted in yellow

In 2024, we are exploring North Cambridge. Over the past century, North Cambridge has seen much of its large-scale industrial production taper off, but its churches, schools, and small businesses have allowed the neighborhood to retain its sense of community and character. Changing demographics and development have affected the area in both positive and negative ways, but residents’ sense of neighborhood identity remains strong.