Hatch Memorial Shell on the Charles River Esplanade

Today, the Hatch is a space for everyone to share in a taste of nature amidst Boston’s urbanity, and to share in the appreciation of music. The history of how the Hatch Memorial Shell came to be features neighbourhood leaders who were determined to realise their ambitious visions for Boston. These leaders drove change for social justice and environmental health, in decades before the limelight of urban growth was turned towards these concerns. In this exhibit, we will explore the Hatch as a palimpsest for the processes of creating a public space, and making classical music more accessible.