Somerville Historic Preservation Commission
May is Preservation Month in Somerville every year, and the Jane’s Walk is typically the event that kicks off a host of historic activities, including walking and bike tours, talks, an Awards Program, and the start of our Docent Program which encourages the wider public to learn more about 3 different historic sites in our community. Events are free, and all help us celebrate our city’s rich history and architecture.
Jane’s Walk Somerville, MA is organized by Somerville Historic Preservation Commission. To learn more about local Jane’s Walks or get involved, get in touch using the contact information below
Walk Stories
Walk stories are chronicles of moments, ideas, insights, and images from a Jane’s Walk, curated and submitted by local participants, walk leaders, and city organizers. Want yours to be the first one here? Share your experience with us below.
June 2018 – Innovation and Entrepreneurship Thriving in Somerville
Walk Leader: Brandon Wilsonm SHPC Executive Director and Joyce Sanchez
Hi – my name is Joyce Sanchez and I’m the Preservation Planning Intern for the Somerville Historic Preservation Commission. This year, I was granted the opportunity to play a vital role in organizing, planning, and promoting the 2018 Jane’s Walk in Somerville, MA. The city has participated in this global movement since 2012 so I was more than excited to make the event happen again.
In my golden hoops and bright red Boston Red Sox hat, I joined over 40 people – parents, children, college students, and retirees – on a Jane’s Walk that highlighted the recreational spaces and innovative entrepreneurship in the city. From selling athletic wear that helps funds clean water projects around the globe to bikers that deliver fresh food to residents, we visited business that gave tour attendees a deeper look into the city of Somerville, encouraging them to not only walk around their neighborhood more often but to support local businesses that make Somerville so unique.
One of the most memorable parts of the tour was when we stopped by Bow Market, a storage-building turned market that provide small-scale storefronts to established and aspiring food vendors, retailers, and artists from Somerville and Greater Boston. When we toured, it was still in its final days of its grand opening so we were able to get an inside look at a place that will provide small businesses a great place for exposure and consistent visitors.
To me, this walk not only did an amazing job at highlighting businesses that many tour attendees hadn’t visited before, but really showcased the city’s economic and innovative potential that will make Somerville the place to be in years to come. I am so thankful that I was able to play an important role in making this tour happen and look forward to organizing the one next year!
Did you participate in a Jane’s Walk in this city?