In 1630, the first Puritan settlers, led by John Winthrop, built their earliest houses along what is today State Street. The Puritans also originally built the meeting house for the First Church in Boston on the street across from the marketplace, which was located where the Old State House stands today. By 1636 the thoroughfare was known as Market Street. From 1708 to 1784, it was renamed King Street.[citation needed] In 1770 the Boston Massacre took place in front of the Customs House.[1]
During the Revolutionary War, it assumed its current, non-royalist name.[2] In the 19th century State Street became known as Boston's primary location for banks and other financial institutions.[3]
Transportation
The Blue Line of the MBTA subway runs below State Street. Two stations have entrances on State Street: Aquarium and State. The Faneuil Hall Marketplace is also nearby. The east end of State Street is at Long Wharf, where ferries are available to several places, including the airport.
John Winthrop built his first house in Boston on what is today, State Street
1630 site of Winthrop's first home in Boston on State Street
The Boston Massacre took place on State Street (then "King Street") in front of the Old State House; the site is marked by a cobblestone circle in the square
Detail of 1775 map of Boston, showing King Street and vicinity
State Street, 1801, by J. Marston
Advertisement for Lemuel Gulliver "stationer, chart and nautical bookseller" c. 1826
