South Boston Army Base
| South Boston Army Base | |
|---|---|
| South Boston, Massachusetts | |
| Type | Army port of embarkation |
| Site information | |
| Controlled by | United States Army |
| Site history | |
| Built | 1920 |
| In use | 1920 — 1974 |
The South Boston Army Base, was a 58-acre United States Army annex located in South Boston. During World War II, it was used as the Boston Port of Embarkation. It was operational from 1920 to 1974.
History
Opening
The Department of War purchased a large part of the Commonwealth Flats in 1920, and split up the land between the South Boston Naval Annex and the South Boston Army Base.[1] Rail service to the base was provided by Track 61.[2]
World War II
During World War II, the base was used to warehouse and distribute military goods and supplies and coordinate troop shipments. Troops staged at Camp Myles Standish in Taunton.[3] After the war, activity declined and many buildings and structures on the base fell into disrepair.
Closure
In 1974, the base was closed, and became part of the Boston Marine Industrial Park after the City of Boston purchased the land in the 1980s.[1]
Present day
Today, the former base is home to the various companies which have moved in over the years. Sail Boston has also used the land to host ships when they are in port as well, including former base land at the Black Falcon Cruise Terminal.
See also
References
- ^ a b "History of the Park". Boston Marine Industrial Park. Retrieved 4 July 2012.
- ^ "History of the Park". Boston Marine Industrial Park. Archived from the original on 9 March 2012. Retrieved 25 December 2013.
- ^ Stanton, Shelby L. (1991). World War II Order of Battle. Galahad Books. p. 602. ISBN 0-88365-775-9.