Historic makeover: Dorchester Heights Monument getting multi-million dollar restoration

SOUTH BOSTON — A landmark on Telegraph Hill in South Boston is in for a refresh.

The National Parks Service says the 1902 Dorchester Heights Monument tower will benefit from a multi-million dollar appropriation from the Great American Outdoors Act.

The 115-foot monument commemorates a pivotal moment of the Revolutionary War.

On March 17, 1776, British forces evacuated Boston about a week after Continental soldiers seized the Heights of Dorchester, ending the Siege of Boston. “This was the first major strategic and political victory for the Continental Army led by General George Washington,” according to the Park Service.

The money will be used to improve the tower and landscape at the historic site.

“The GAOA funds will allow the National Park Service to address huge, deferred maintenance challenges that are needed to properly preserve the Dorchester Heights Monument and improve visitor safety, access, and enjoyment of it,” said Superintendent Michael Creasey. “The monument has been plagued by water infiltration and structural deterioration for decades.”

“Stabilizing and restoring the landmark and its surrounding landscape to its former grandeur will allow generations of visitors to experience this historic place and understand its significance,” said Creasey.

The restoration will be discussed during the annual commemoration of Evacuation Day at Dorchester Heights on Thursday, March 17, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., hosted by the National Parks of Boston and South Boston Citizens’ Association. The program will be held at Thomas Park in front of the Dorchester Heights Monument.

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