Old Corner Bookstore: Boston’s Literary Landmark

Step into a world of literary charm and historical significance at Boston’s Old Corner Bookstore—a hidden gem that echoes the stories of great American writers and publishers. Whether you’re a history buff or a lover of books, this spot is an unmissable gateway to Boston’s vibrant past.

Location and How to Get There

The Old Corner Bookstore is in the heart of Boston’s historic district, at the corner of School Street and Washington Street. Its prime location makes it easily accessible whether you’re strolling the Freedom Trail or exploring downtown Boston.

To get there:

• By Subway (MBTA): Take the Red or Orange Line to Downtown Crossing Station or the Green Line to Park Street Station. Both stops are just a few minutes walk from the bookstore.
• By Car: Parking in downtown Boston can be tricky, but nearby garages like the Pi Alley Garage offer convenient options. Remember that many streets around the bookstore are pedestrian-friendly, so you may have to walk a short distance.
• By Foot: If you’re walking the Freedom Trail, you’ll find the Old Corner Bookstore along the route—making it an excellent stop during your historical tour.

Nestled among iconic landmarks like the Old South Meeting House, the Old Corner Bookstore combines convenience and cultural immersion, offering an easy detour into Boston’s literary heritage.

History of Old Corner Bookstore

Built in 1718 as a private residence for apothecary Thomas Crease, the Old Corner Bookstore’s unassuming brick exterior belies its historical importance. The building transitioned to a bookstore in the early 19th century and became a hub for Boston’s literary elite.

During the mid-1800s, it was home to the publishing house Ticknor and Fields, which launched works by renowned authors such as Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and Harriet Beecher Stowe. This little bookstore was more than a retail space—it was the nucleus of Boston’s literary movement, shaping the cultural and intellectual life of the city.

Despite its transformation into a commercial space today, the Old Corner Bookstore remains a beloved landmark, symbolizing the intersection of Boston’s colonial heritage and its golden age of literature. It is a tribute to the voices that influenced the American literary canon.

What to See at Old Corner Bookstore

While the Old Corner Bookstore no longer functions as a traditional bookstore, its charm and significance make it a must-see attraction in Boston. Here’s what to explore when visiting:

Historic Architecture:

Marvel at the 18th-century Georgian-style brick building, one of Boston’s oldest surviving commercial buildings. Its preservation offers a rare glimpse into colonial craftsmanship, including the iconic gambrel roof and shopfront windows.

Literary Legacy:

Learn about the bookstore’s role in shaping American literature. Signage and plaques detail its connection to luminaries like Longfellow, Dickinson, and Whitman.

Freedom Trail Stop:

As a key landmark on the Freedom Trail, the bookstore is steeped in historical context. Take the opportunity to combine your visit with other revolutionary-era sites.

Photography Opportunities:

The Old Corner Bookstore is a dream for photographers and history enthusiasts alike. Its quaint exterior offers a picture-perfect moment, particularly when the sunlight hits its red-brick facade.

Modern Occupants with a Nod to History:

Today, the building houses a Chipotle, but don’t let that dissuade you from visiting—placards and historical markers inside the space honor its storied past, bridging the old with the new.

Whether you’re there to admire its architecture, delve into its literary heritage, or soak up the atmosphere, the Old Corner Bookstore invites visitors to experience the echoes of Boston’s rich history.

Nearby Attractions and Landmarks

After visiting the Old Corner Bookstore, explore these nearby sites to enrich your Boston adventure:

1. Old South Meeting House: Just a 2-minute walk away, this historic church played a pivotal role in the American Revolution as the site of heated debates leading to the Boston Tea Party.
2. King’s Chapel: A short stroll brings you to this historic chapel, known for its beautiful architecture and landmark cemetery—the oldest in Boston.
3. Boston Common: A 10-minute walk away, this sprawling park is perfect for a relaxing break amidst Boston’s hustle and bustle.
4. Faneuil Hall Marketplace: Roughly a 10-minute walk, this bustling marketplace offers shops, street performers, and excellent dining options.
5. Granary Burying Ground: Just steps away, this historic cemetery is the resting place of notable figures like Samuel Adams, Paul Revere, and John Hancock.
6. Freedom Trail: Continue your journey along Boston’s famed Freedom Trail, which ties together 16 historic sites, weaving a fascinating story of America’s revolutionary history.

With so much to see and do in the area, the Old Corner Bookstore is the perfect gateway to Boston’s rich tapestry of history and culture. Leave time to wander and let the city’s stories unfold around you.