Jamaica Plain

Jamaica Plain is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood with a rich history and strong community spirit. Originally part of Roxbury, it became a separate town in 1851 and was annexed by Boston in 1874. Once a summer retreat for wealthy Bostonians, it features grand estates and beautiful parks. The Arnold Arboretum, a 281-acre living museum maintained by Harvard University, and Jamaica Pond, part of the Emerald Necklace park system, offer scenic walking paths and recreational opportunities. JP’s diverse population and mix of architectural styles, from Victorian homes to modern condos, add to its charm.

Explore the Neighborhood

Topic
Era
01
19th Century
Abolition, Civil Rights, Social Activism
08
19th Century
Abolition, Civil Rights, Social Activism
15
19th Century
Abolition, Civil Rights, Social Activism
18
19th Century
Abolition, Civil Rights, Social Activism
19
19th Century
Abolition, Civil Rights, Social Activism
20
19th Century
Abolition, Civil Rights, Social Activism

Featured Landmarks

Jamaica Plain
19th Century

Arts & Culture

The Tuesday Club, founded in 1896 under Ednah Dow Cheney, saved the historic Loring Greenough House in 1924. It remains a vital community hub in Jamaica Plain.
Jamaica Plain
19th Century

Education

Ellen Swallow Richards (1842-1911), founder of home economics, lived here. First woman graduate and professor at M.I.T., she revolutionized sanitation and scientific education for women.
Jamaica Plain
20th Century

Arts & Culture

Sylvia Plath (1932-1963), famous for her poetry and novel "The Bell Jar", lived here from birth to age four. "Ariel" is one of the best-selling poetry volumes of the 20th century.

Search & Filter

Topic
Era