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Cultural Assets and Amenities
Watertown has a strong cultural history dating from before the pre-Colonial era, when the land was home to Indigenous peoples. The richness of Watertown’s culture continues today with 30% of Watertown residents speaking a language other than English at home (US Census 2020). The City is also home to one of the largest Armenian diaspora communities in the United States, and Armenian residents continue to make a big impact in the arts, education, and business throughout Watertown.
Historic District
The Mt. Auburn Street Historic District, authorized in 2002, encompasses properties along the Mt. Auburn St. corridor from Summer St. to Lincoln St. This area includes the Common Street Cemetery, the second-oldest cemetery in Watertown, which also was the site from 1754 of Watertown’s original meeting house.
Cultural District (designation pending)
The Watertown Public Arts & Culture Committee applied for a cultural district designation with the Mass Cultural Council. The district spans parts of Watertown Square, the Mt. Auburn Street Historic District, and Main St. Some of the assets highlighted include the Armenian Museum of America, Watertown Cable Access TV, the Watertown Free Public Library, galleries, murals, sculptures and more. The designation is anticipated to be granted in late 2024.
Armenian Cultural and Education Center (ACEC)
With a full-size gymnasium, office space that houses several Armenian nonprofits, a school, event space and a professional kitchen, the ACEC serves as a cultural hub for the entire Coolidge Square neighborhood. The ACEC partners with many outside groups and rents their space for private functions.
Armenian Museum of America
Located right in Watertown Square, the museum’s collection is the largest in the Armenian diaspora and home to more than 25,000 artifacts. Documenting Armenian history from ancient times through to the present, the museum also serves as a center for education and gallery for contemporary Armenian artists.
Dorothy and Charles Mosesian Center for the Arts
This newly-renovated space anchors the Arsenal on the Charles development. The Mosesian Center offers concerts, lectures, theater and dance performances, and classes and workshops open to the public. It is also the home of Watertown Children’s Theater and gallery space that highlights local artists.
Mt Auburn Cemetery
Recognized as a National Landmark, Mt Auburn was the first garden-style cemetery in the United States, opening in 1831. Serving as an arboretum and as the largest open green space in Watertown, the cemetery is home to many notable Bostonians and several notable pieces of architecture and sculpture.
Commander’s Mansion
Owned and operated by the City of Watertown, the mansion served as an active home for the commander of the U.S. Naval Arsenal on the Charles River until the 1990s. It has now been converted to private event space and hosts many indoor and outdoor events year-round.