| State Street | |
| Former Names: | Market Street King Street |
| Direction A: | West |
| Terminus A: | Court Street |
| Direction B: | East |
| Terminus B: | Old Atlantic Avenue |
| Junction: | Court Street (Atlantic Ave./JFK Surface Rd.) |
State Street is one of the oldest and most historic streets in Boston, Massachusetts, United States. Located in the financial district, it is the site of some historic landmarks, such as Long Wharf, the Old State House and the Boston Custom House.
In 1630, the first Puritan settlers, led by John Winthrop, built their earliest houses along what is today State Street. The Puritans also originally built the meeting house for the First Church in Boston on the street across from the marketplace, which was located where the Old State House stands today. By 1636 the thoroughfare was known as Market Street. From 1708 to 1784, it was renamed King Street. In 1770 the Boston Massacre took place in front of the Customs House.[1]
During the Revolutionary War, it assumed its current, non-royalist name.[2] In the 19th century State Street became known as Boston's primary location for banks and other financial institutions.[3]
The Blue Line of the MBTA subway runs below State Street. Two stations have entrances on State Street: Aquarium and State. The Faneuil Hall Marketplace is also nearby. The east end of State Street is at Long Wharf, where ferries are available to several places, including the airport.