Roxbury used to be a pastoral destination for the wealthy - starting in the late 19th century, it underwent a major transformation from farmland to factories.

When the first English settlers arrived in the 1630s, Roxbury quickly became a suburban oasis for wealthy families. A little over two hundred years later, in the 1840s, its appearance had begun to change. The once vast farmland was purchased by developers and large factories were constructed in a number of industries. Train lines running through the neighborhood facilitated this development, and enabled people to commute to work en masse for the first time. Immigrants worked unsavory and unsafe jobs in these factories, and many of the buildings still standing today went up with the initial purpose of housing newcomers to the neighborhood and United States. After a mid-twentieth century decline, the area is now entering a period of cultural and economic revitalization. Industry changed the fabric, landscape, and population of Roxbury. Join us on July 29 to learn exactly how.

This tour will start at the Shirley-Eustis House at 4pm and end at Bully Boy Distillers, which is located in a historic Roxbury factory. Admission cost includes one cocktail or mocktail of your choice at the Bully Boy Cocktail Garden. The tour is 1 mile long over flat terrain and will take about an hour. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water.

Advance registration required at the eventbrite page here. Tickets are $17 for the general public and free for Shirley-Eustis House members. Discounted tickets available on request for EBT, WIC, and ConnectorCare recipients. If you have a voucher for free tour admission, please email us at programs@shirleyeustishouse.org to register.

Questions? Email us at programs@shirleyeustishouse.org or call us at (617)-442-2275.