There is something truly spectacular about the essence of feeling like a local. Soaking up the history, yet exploring the ever-changing world around you. Boston’s newest piece of culture-in-the-making lies at 12R Ericsson St, the Boston Harbor Distillery. This brand new business is located in a building with culture as rich as its spirits. The beautiful brick facade once was home to other local institutions, like the Putnam Nail Factory, the George Lawley & Sons Shipyard, and Seymour’s Ice Cream. The Boston Harbor Distillery continues to honor the history of these past businesses with the names of their first three brands: the Putnam New England Rye Whiskey, the Lawley’s New England Spirit, and the Seymour’s Local Roast Coffee Liqueur.
The brick exterior of the distillery provides a rustic feel, inviting visitors inside for a taste for more. After a tour of the space and a sampling of the spirits, it is impossible to not feel like a long time local of Boston, drinking in the culture surrounding you. Manning the stills were two young distillers who you meet by first name. In speaking with them, it is clear the passion they have for their craft. Upon entering the great room, you’re instantly made to feel at home and greeted with warm smiles by the barkeep – a young transplant from Texas who makes a mean Old Fashion and other craft cocktails with spirits produced just a few feet away. Behind her, stacks of crystal drinkware sparkle on shelves fashioned from belts and reclaimed wood. The modern, yet cozy interior is filled with honey-colored wood and plush plaid fabrics, whisking you away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
In fact, the distillery itself is nestled in a part of Boston that is off the beaten path, but within earshot of the gentle hum of the highway. “The Port”, as the owner of the distillery refers to it, has been a home to local craftsmen for hundreds of years, and with the addition of this latest venture, the neighborhood continues its legacy of homegrown goods. The Boston Harbor Distillery carries on the tradition of past commerce and culture, while redefining American spirits. You’ll come for the drinks, and stay for the experience that truly captures the history and local spirit of Boston.
Hello everyone, my name is Rebecca Herst. I recently joined the Boston Harbor Association team to work on climate preparedness work. I am managing our outreach work and speaking with community members and leaders in coastal neighborhoods that are vulnerable to sea level rise and coastal flooding.
I have a background in community organizing and social and economic development. While in business school at Boston University, I fell in love with the field of climate preparedness. I started working at the Urban Land Institute as a Resilience Fellow while I finished my coursework and managed their climate preparedness initiatives. While I was there we released the Urban Implications of Living with Water Report which compliments the work happening at TBHA nicely. I also worked at Harvard University in their Office for Sustainability managing the Boston Green Ribbon Commission Higher Education Working group before coming to TBHA.
My work at TBHA brings together my passions for environmental sustainability, relationship building and resilience cultivation. I am excited about the opportunity to think creatively with residents across the City of Boston about what they value in their communities and what they hope for their neighborhoods in the future. I would love to hear your thoughts! Please get in touch with me at Rebecca@tbha.org.
The City of Boston has officially kicked off its neighborhood engagement campaign for Imagine Boston 2030 with the launch of the Textizen mobile platform. This is an opportunity for everyone who lives, works and plays in the City of Boston to help shape its future.
This platform will allow people to use mobile technology to engage from anywhere. To participate, simply text the letter of your top choice in response to the question below to (617) 860-3745:
My life in 2030 will be better with (pick your top choice)…
A: Housing I can afford
B: Safer neighborhoods
C: Better transportation options
D: Quality education for all
E: A more environmentally friendly city
F: Great parks and public space
G: A more innovative and creative city
H: Expanded job opportunities
I: More vibrant neighborhoods
There are also other ways to be a part of the conversation:
Take the Imagine Boston 2030 survey and sign up for email notifications on their website.
Follow the project on social media (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram) and post comments and suggestions using the hashtag #ImagineBoston.
Look for suggestion boxes around the city where you can submit your ideas on paper. Suggestion boxes will be at libraries, City Hall, on the City Hall To Go truck and more!
