Two of our beloved neighborhood landmarks, the Withington House and the Calf Pasture Pumping Station, have officially been granted landmark status by the Boston Landmarks Commission. These designations not only preserve their rich histories but also shine a spotlight on Dorchester’s contributions to Boston’s cultural and architectural legacy.
The Withington House: A Home with Generational Significance (above)
Located on Ashland Street, the Withington House is an enduring symbol of Dorchester’s historic residential architecture. This home was built between 1790 and 1820 as the primary residence of Daniel (1762–1847) and Anna (née Wheeler) Withington (1765–1854). The house is one of the few remaining examples of its style in the area, showcasing classic symmetry, a gabled roof, and finely crafted details.
The landmark designation for the Withington House ensures that this treasured piece of local history will be preserved for future generations. Its historical value lies not only in its architecture but also in its connection to Dorchester’s evolution from an agrarian community to a thriving urban neighborhood.
The Calf Pasture Pumping Station: An Industrial Marvel
The Calf Pasture Pumping Station Complex is a historic sewage treatment facility at 435 Mount Vernon Street and has stood as a testament to Boston’s industrial ingenuity since its construction in 1883. Designed in the Richardsonian Romanesque style, this imposing brick structure was part of Boston’s first comprehensive sewer system—a groundbreaking effort in public health and sanitation that set the standard for cities across the nation. This is the great work of Boston’s fire City Architect, George A. Clough.
Its landmark status recognizes the station’s architectural significance and historical impact. The pumping station’s design, with its massive arches and striking masonry, remains an iconic example of late 19th-century industrial architecture. Additionally, its role in protecting Boston Harbor from pollution underscores its importance to both the city’s health and its environmental history.
Why This Matters
Landmark status offers these sites much-needed protection from demolition or inappropriate alterations, ensuring they maintain their historic integrity. This is more than just preserving old buildings; it’s about keeping Dorchester’s stories alive and tangible. Whether you’re walking past the Withington House or gazing up at the grandeur of the Calf Pasture Pumping Station, these landmarks connect us to our past while enriching our community’s character.
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Maureen Dahill is the editor of Caught in Southie and a lifelong resident of South Boston sometimes mistaken for a yuppie. Co-host of Caught Up, storyteller, lover of red wine and binge watching TV series. Mrs. Peter G. Follow her @MaureenCaught.
