Nestled at the intersection of College Avenue, Highland Avenue, Elm Street, and Holland Street, Davis Square stands as one of Somerville’s most vibrant and beloved neighborhoods. Its unique blend of historic roots, cultural energy, and community warmth makes it a true gem — a place where echoes of the past mingle effortlessly with the lively rhythm of today. Whether you’re strolling past century-old buildings or catching a late-night show, the story of Davis Square is written in every corner café and shaded brick sidewalk.
From Farmland to Urban Hub: Davis Square’s Early Origins
Long before the bustle of Red Line trains and Java-laden mornings, the land that would become Davis Square was part of the larger farmlands and open countryside of early Somerville. Settled in the 17th century, this area was originally traversed by Native American footpaths and later by colonial roads connecting settlers’ homes to Boston and neighboring communities.
The square itself began to take form in the 19th century as Somerville’s population grew alongside Boston’s expanding influence. In 1883, Davis Square was named in honor of Person Davis, a local merchant and landowner who played a significant role in developing the area. The coming of the horse-drawn streetcar — and eventually the electric trolley — transformed Davis Square into a natural meeting point and bustling commercial hub.
A Streetcar Suburb and Community Crossroads
As streetcars rattled down Highland Avenue and College Avenue in the late 1800s, families, workers, and small business owners flocked to the square. By the early 20th century, Davis Square was a classic example of a “streetcar suburb,” where residential neighborhoods grew around accessible transit lines and commercial heartbeats.
Some of the architecture from this era still graces the square today. The historic Somerville Theatre on 55 Davis Square, opened in 1914, stands as a testament to the optimism and communal spirit of the time — having hosted everything from vaudeville acts to silent films to today’s indie music concerts.
Landmarks That Tell Davis Square’s Story
Walking through Davis Square is like strolling through layers of history:
- Somerville Theatre: With its beautiful marquee and stately brick façade, this theatre is a living relic, beloved by locals and visitors alike for its mix of movies, performances, and the annual Independent Film Festival Boston.
- Statue Park: Officially known as Seven Hills Park, located where the Minuteman Bikeway meets the Square. The park features whimsical statues commemorating Somerville’s industrial past and vibrant present.
- Former Highland Elementary School: Now repurposed into artist studios at the Davis Square Lofts, this handsome building on Highland Avenue continues its legacy by nurturing creativity and community.
- Dilboy Stadium: Just a short walk down Holland Street, this athletic facility honors George Dilboy, a Somerville native and World War I hero.
The Square is also home to a mural honoring the late Johnny D’s Uptown Restaurant, which for decades was a home to live music and neighborhood gatherings.
Reinvention and Revitalization: Davis in the Modern Era
By the mid-20th century, like many urban centers, Davis Square faced challenges: the decline of streetcars, postwar suburbanization, and shifting economies led to decades of stagnation and business closures. Change came in the 1980s, driven by visionary residents and local leaders who advocated for revitalization.
The opening of the Davis Square MBTA Red Line station in 1984 was a turning point, breathing new life into the area. The transformation was dramatic: local shops flourished, old buildings found new uses, and a fresh population of students, artists, and families infused the neighborhood with energy. Today, Davis Square boasts an eclectic array of cafés, ice cream shops, vintage stores, and music venues, making it a destination for people all over Greater Boston.
Institutions and Community Connection
Davis Square’s charm extends beyond buildings and businesses. It’s rooted in the gathering places and traditions that knit together residents, workers, and visitors:
- The Rosebud American Kitchen & Bar: Housed in a classic diner car, it recalls the neighborhood’s working-class heritage while serving up modern comfort food.
- Somerville Arts Council: With its legendary ArtBeat festival each July, Davis Square pulses with creativity, music, and street performance.
- Minuteman Bikeway: Once a railroad line, now a beloved bike and walking path, connecting Davis Square to Arlington, Lexington, and beyond.
The neighborhood’s proximity to Tufts University has shaped its youthful vibe — you’re just as likely to see students with backpacks as seasoned locals chatting on benches outside Redbones, the square’s iconic barbecue spot.
The Spirit of Davis Square: Then and Now
Even as it reinvents itself, the central spirit of Davis Square remains unchanged: openness, community, and a true sense of place. From historic churches to new microbreweries, from bustling daytime markets to late-night singalongs at The Burren, Davis Square captures all the best parts of urban village life.
It’s a square where old-timers swap stories at Mr. Crepe, where children climb the bronze statues in Seven Hills Park, and where every September, neighbors celebrate the Fluff Festival in homage to Somerville’s sweetest claim to fame.
As Davis Square continues to evolve, its heritage endures — not just in its brick facades or storied theaters, but in the shared moments and surprises that make this neighborhood more than just a crossroads. It’s a living memory in motion, and it’s waiting to welcome you.