Skinny House and Old Charlestown Bridge Pier
Why is it significant?
Conclude your historical journey through Boston's North End before the famous Skinny House at 44 Hull Street, officially recognized as the narrowest residential dwelling in the city of Boston.
Key Facts
| Place | Skinny House and Old Charlestown Bridge Pier |
|---|---|
| Address | 44 Hull St, Boston, MA 02113, United States |
| Geo Coordinates | 42.36950, -71.05900 |
| Part of Walk | North End, Freedom Trail and Maritime Waterfront: Colonial Heart of Boston |
| Generated | Generated |
Conclude your historical journey through Boston's North End before the famous Skinny House at 44 Hull Street, officially recognized as the narrowest residential dwelling in the city of Boston. Measuring a mere ten feet wide at its front facade and tapering to just over nine feet at the rear, this whimsical four-story wooden townhouse represents one of the most celebrated spite houses in American architectural folklore.
According to local historical legend, two brothers inherited a plot of land from their father following the Civil War. While one brother was away serving in the military, the other built a spacious home covering most of the lot. Returning to find his inheritance stolen, the veteran built this ultra-narrow four-story house on the remaining sliver of land specifically to block his brother's sunlight and ocean harbor views.
Despite its diminutive width, the Skinny House contains four fully functional stories and a rooftop terrace with panoramic vistas of the harbor. The interior rooms are so narrow that a person can touch opposite walls with outstretched arms, and furniture must be hoisted through second-floor windows because the staircases are too tight. Looking north past the house down Hull Street toward the Old Charlestown Bridge, you view the historic water passage where Paul Revere was rowed under cover of darkness past the British warship Somerset. This narrow corridor connects centuries of revolutionary bravery, eccentric Yankee individualism, and deep maritime pride.
Standing on Hull Street with Copp's Hill behind you and the harbor breeze whispering through the narrow colonial alley, you appreciate the extraordinary density and character of Boston's North End. Every inch of stone, brick, and timber in this neighborhood tells a story of perseverance, liberty, and community life.
Linger in the charming cafes of the North End or stroll down to the Charles River waterfront.