The Short History

A photograph of Parkman Bandstand after its creation in 1912 and at its peak of relevance in terms of gathering for poltical and extremely important purposes.

The Parkman Bandstand was built in 1912 in honor of George Parkman who had donated $5 million through his will to Boston's urban parks. It was buillt on the former cow pond, but the pond had become irrelevant since grazing was banned in 1830. The new 20th century structure did not go on to see much change or act as a crucial part of Boston's 20th century changes, in fact it was forgotten in importance until it was restored through urban renewal initiatives. Therefore, the Parkman Bandstand does not represent Boston as a palimpsest because it has not had enough history or signficance to act as such.