Dorchester Heights Monument Being Restored by Boston National Historical Park for March 17, 2026 Celebrations of America 250

Boston National Historical Park is in the midst of a $30+ million restoration of Dorchester Heights Monument atop Telegraph Hill in South Boston.  Funding for the project comes from the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA). 

The restoration began in September 2023 and is expected to be completed by March 2026, in time for the 250th anniversary of the famous episode at Dorchester Heights in March 1776.  That is when colonial troops pointed canons from Dorchester Heights at British ships in the harbor, forcing British troops to evacuate and effectively ending the 11-month Siege of Boston.

The Work in Progress. Courtesy of National Park Service. Photo Credit: Procon Consulting (Ted Fiffy)

According to Boston National Historical Park, “This current project is restoring the 115-foot-tall marble commemorative tower, which was designed by Peabody & Stearns architects of Boston in 1899 and constructed in 1901-1902. It is also replacing all hardscapes within the surrounding 5.43-acre grounds around the tower, known as Thomas Park. With completion of this project, the iconic tower and grounds will be safe and accessible for visitors and continue to serve as a landmark within the local community.”

Dorchester Heights program book and invitation, March 17, 1906

The Dorchester Heights Monument Memorial was first unveiled on March 17, 1902.  According to the program book issued that day, “The Chief Marshall and his staff formed the head of the procession at Broadway Extension, and a few minutes after one o’clock it was directed to move.  The route of the  parade was through West and East Broadway, along Q Street, East Fourth Street, East Eighth Street, I Street, East Fourth Street to G. Street.”

Speakers at the unveiling included Governor Crane, Reverend William F. Warren and Honorable Henry Cabot Lodge. 

Plaque unveiled at the Dorchester Heights Monument Memorial on March 17, 1902

 St. Patrick’s Day and Evacuation Day are celebrated simultaneously in South Boston each March.