Dorchester Heights

Aerial photograph showing white marble monument in an elliptical park. Sidewalks wind around the ellipse and up the center toward the monument.
The primary feature of the grounds today is the 1902 marble clad monument designed by architect firm Peabody and Stearns. The elliptical park abuts South Boston High School on top of Telegraph Hill, the only surviving peak of Dorchester Heights.

Image courtesy Tom Zion

 
 

About Dorchester Heights

The Dorchester Heights Monument commemorates the fortification of those Heights on the evening of March 4, 1776. After months of planning, George Washington ordered continental forces and local volunteers to stealthily fortify this location with cannon. This military operation led British forces to evacuate Boston two weeks later, on March 17, 1776.

In 1898, the General Court of Massachusetts commissioned a monument to stand on the remaining hill of the Heights. Designed by the architectural firm of Peabody and Stearns, the white marble Georgian revival tower commemorates the 1776 victory. Dorchester Heights' historical significance and the development of the surrounding community vividly reflect the history and growth of the city of Boston.

Dorchester Heights Monument and Grounds are stewarded by the National Park Service.

Monument & Grounds Hours

Operating Hours Today's Hours: Dorchester Heights Monument and Grounds is currently closed to the public due to ongoing restoration work.
All operating hours

Please see the following article for updates on the restoration project: Dorchester Heights Monument in Boston National Historical Park to be Restored through GAOA Funding.

Admissions

No fees Free admission

Accessibility

AccessibilityThe grounds of Dorchester Heights are accessible, however the hill is very steep.

Contact Info and Address

Address: Dorchester Heights Monument, Boston, MA 02127

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News

 
Arched window out of granite being put back together.
Dorchester Heights Monument Restoration

Learn about the multimillion-dollar restoration of the Dorchester Heights Monument with funding from the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA).

 

History

 
Illustration of Continental soldiers and officers in a fortification overlooking a harbor.
History of Dorchester Heights

Learn about the significance of Dorchester Heights through this historical overview. Photo: National Park Service/©Louis S. Glanzman

Revolutionary War era map of Boston
Interactive Map: The Siege of Boston

Explore the extent of the Siege of Boston of 1775-1776 with this interactive map depicting fortifications and troop locations.

 

Map

 
 

Photos

 
 

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    Last updated: February 19, 2025

    Contact Info

    Mailing Address:

    Boston National Historical Park
    21 Second Ave
    Charlestown, MA 02129

    Phone:

    617 242-5601

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