Working Women: Boston Women Find Their Voice Tour
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; primarily walking on paved city streets at a moderate pace.
Overview
Explore Boston’s rich history of women’s rights on a captivating 1.5-hour walking tour. Discover the stories of women who fought for their voice and made a lasting impact.
Working Women: Boston Women Find Their Voice
BOSTONIANS FIGHT FOR CHANGE SERIES
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About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 1.5-hour walking tour through Boston, exploring the powerful history of women's trade unionism and suffrage. Discover the inspiring stories of women who fought for their voices and rights, shaped by the Women’s Trade Union League and other pivotal organizations. Experience a unique journey through time and resilience.
Duration, Distance, Terrain
1.5 hours 1 mile at a moderate pace, stopping at various sites along the tour
About
For most of the 19th century, Boston’s working women’s voices were not being heard. It would take the creation of the Women’s Trade Union League founded by Mary Kenney O’Sullivan in Boston to show women how to organize themselves into trade unions. On this tour, discover how women’s voices grew from the foundation laid by the Denison House and the WEIU (Women’s Education & Industrial Union). Learn about the proud, defiant women who led Boston’s women’s trade unionism and suffrage movements, and the struggles these movements faced, divided along class lines.
Meeting location:
Meet your guide at Brewer Fountain in Boston Common, along Tremont Street.
Finding Your Guide: All guides carry an 8×11 sign that says “Boston By Foot Walking Tours.”
Nearest MBTA Station: Park Street (Green & Red Lines)
What to bring
Comfortable shoes, dress for the weather, water bottle
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable shoes
The tour involves walking through historic city streets, so sturdy, comfortable footwear is recommended.
Bring a water bottle
Stay hydrated during the tour, especially in warmer months when walking outdoors can be more taxing.
Check weather forecast
Boston weather can be unpredictable; dress appropriately and bring rain gear if needed.
Arrive early
Plan to arrive at least 10 minutes before the tour starts to ensure a smooth check-in process.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Urban squirrels
- Varied city bird species including pigeons and sparrows
History
Boston was a key hub in the women’s suffrage movement and labor union activism during the early 20th century, with influential organizations headquartered here.
Conservation
Boston By Foot supports sustainable tourism through small group sizes and promoting walking tours that reduce carbon footprints in the city.
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Adventure Hotspots in Boston
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Essential for navigating city streets comfortably throughout the tour.
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated during warmer months while exploring outdoors.
summer specific
Light rain jacket or umbrella
Protect yourself from spring showers common in Boston.
spring specific
Layered clothing
Adjustable layers help you stay comfortable as temperatures change.
fall specific