Boston Photo Gallery - North End

Known as "Little Italy", the North End is one of Boston's original neighbourhoods. With residences and churches, the densely-populated district is a popular dining destination today. Part of the Freedom Trail from downtown runs through the area as well en route to the other side of the river. Following the revolution, this area saw different waves of immigrants from Europe. The Irish started arriving in the 1840s due to crop failures in their homeland, followed by the Eastern European Jews fleeing persecution, and the Italians starting from the 1890s. Just opposite Copp's Hill Burying Ground at 44 Hull Street is the city's narrowest house, measuring 10 foot wide only. Legend says two brothers inherited the land from their father and while one went fighting during the Civil War, the other built a large home that took up most of the lot. When the brother returned, he built this slim house to block his view. However, historic records note the house was built before the Civil War, and it was one of many similar wood-frame houses on the block. The Old North Church was built in 1723 with a congregation from wealthy merchants, government officials, and other elite social members. While Anglican, or loyalist to England, the church was used to signal the British Army was crossing the Charles River and heading west in 1775. The Revolutionary War began the day after. Paul Revere was born in the North End in 1734. His night of fame came in 1775 when he rode to Lexington to warn John Hancock and Samuel Adams that the British were coming. He lived in this house for 10 years. Along the main thoroughfare, Hanover Street, there are 2 particularly popular Italian bakeries - Mike's Pastry and Modern Pastry. Mike's opened in 1946 and is famous for its overstuffed cannoli in many flavours. Just down the street, Modern was established in the 1930s and is famous for its cannoli and ricotta pie. It's hard to say which one is better, so try both.