Boston, a city steeped in history and brimming with modern innovation, carries a unique and somewhat quirky nickname: Beantown. But why is Boston called Beantown? While the moniker might conjure images of pots bubbling with savory legumes, the story behind it is a rich blend of culinary tradition, historical context, and a dash of clever marketing. Let’s delve into the origins of this enduring nickname and explore why Boston became synonymous with beans.
Illustration by Mark Matcho
The Puritan and Baked Beans Connection
The story of Beantown begins in colonial times, deeply intertwined with the traditions of the early settlers, particularly the Puritans. Arriving in the New World with strong religious convictions, the Puritans strictly observed the Sabbath, a day of rest where work and cooking were prohibited. To adhere to these strict Sabbath laws and still enjoy a hearty Sunday meal, they developed a practical solution: baked beans.
Preparing food in advance on Saturday became a necessity. Beans, readily available and affordable, were slow-cooked in large pots on Saturday to be enjoyed throughout Sunday. This practice became a staple in Boston households. Initially, Native Americans prepared baked beans using maple syrup and bear fat. However, the resourceful New Englanders adapted the recipe, incorporating ingredients readily available to them, such as pork and brown sugar.
Molasses and the Rise of “Beantown”
A key ingredient that transformed baked beans and further cemented Boston’s association with them was molasses. John Adams famously called molasses “an essential ingredient in American independence” because it was not subject to British taxes, a sentiment resonating deeply with the colonists. While Adams highlighted the political significance, molasses also played a crucial role in culinary identity. Its inclusion in baked beans gave the dish a distinctive sweet and rich flavor, setting Boston baked beans apart.
The widespread practice of Boston families baking beans every Saturday, filling the air with their sweet, smoky aroma, did not go unnoticed by visitors. Travelers passing through Boston began to remark on the city’s pervasive bean-cooking culture, and slowly, the nickname “Beantown” began to take root as a lighthearted and descriptive label for the city.
Honey Fitz and the “Beantown” Marketing Push
While the nickname organically emerged from Boston’s culinary habits, it was a savvy politician who propelled “Beantown” into the realm of official city branding. John F. Fitzgerald, affectionately known as “Honey Fitz,” served as Boston’s mayor in the early 20th century and recognized the marketing potential of the city’s bean association. Inspired by “Old Home Week,” a tourism-boosting initiative originating in New Hampshire, Fitzgerald sought to attract visitors and promote Boston’s economic and commercial progress.
In 1907, Mayor Fitzgerald launched Boston’s own “Old Home Week” campaign, making baked beans the central theme. The city distributed a million stickers across the nation, each emblazoned with a baked bean pot, a clear visual symbol of Boston. Furthermore, the event organizers designated a “Boston Baked Bean” day, solidifying the connection between the city and its signature dish in the public consciousness. Honey Fitz’s promotional efforts officially christened “Beantown” in the eyes of the nation, transforming a casual nickname into a powerful marketing tool.
“Beantown” in Popular Culture
Following the successful marketing campaign, “Beantown” permeated popular culture, further embedding itself into Boston’s identity. Boston’s National League baseball team was even christened the “Beaneaters,” proudly bearing the city’s nickname. Postcards featuring slogans like “You Don’t Know Beans Until You Come to Boston” became popular souvenirs, reinforcing the association in a playful manner.
In 1952, the “Beanpot,” a collegiate hockey tournament featuring Boston’s four major universities, was established. This annual event, still running strong today, further cemented “Beanpot” and, by extension, “Beantown,” in the local lexicon. Even in the 1980s, a CBS sitcom titled Goodnight Beantown aired, although short-lived, it showcased the nickname on national television, demonstrating its continued recognition.
Is “Beantown” Still Relevant Today?
Despite its historical roots and cultural entrenchment, the nickname “Beantown” is not without its critics in modern Boston. As the original article from Boston Magazine points out, many contemporary Bostonians find the nickname outdated and somewhat irrelevant to the city’s current identity. The article highlights the decreasing prevalence of Boston baked beans on restaurant menus, questioning if the moniker still accurately reflects the city’s culinary scene.
The article also notes the lack of awareness among tourists, with some even confusing “Beantown” with Chicago due to its famous “The Bean” sculpture. This raises questions about the effectiveness of “Beantown” as a tourism draw in the 21st century. Furthermore, the original article argues that reducing a city renowned for its historical significance, academic institutions, and technological advancements to a dish known for causing flatulence might be overly simplistic and even detrimental to Boston’s image.
We’re a town with a moniker that is meaningless to most residents, unknown to many tourists, and refers to a dish that is increasingly tough to find.
Arguments for Keeping and Retiring “Beantown”
The debate over “Beantown” reflects a broader conversation about Boston’s identity – balancing respect for its rich history with the desire to project a modern and forward-thinking image. Some argue that “Beantown” is a beloved and recognizable nickname that connects Boston to its unique past. It’s a quirky and endearing moniker that sets Boston apart and offers a tangible link to its colonial heritage.
Conversely, others advocate for retiring “Beantown,” suggesting that it’s time for a nickname that better encapsulates Boston’s current dynamism and global influence. They point to the success of city slogans like “What Happens Here, Stays Here” for Las Vegas, emphasizing the potential benefits of a well-crafted and modern marketing campaign. Finding a new slogan that resonates with both residents and visitors, capturing the essence of contemporary Boston, is seen as a way to elevate the city’s image and attract future generations.
Conclusion
The nickname “Beantown” is undeniably woven into the fabric of Boston’s history. From its humble origins in Puritan kitchens to its embrace by city marketing and popular culture, “Beantown” tells a story of culinary tradition and community identity. Whether this historical nickname continues to serve Boston effectively in the 21st century remains a topic of ongoing discussion. As Boston continues to evolve, the question of whether to preserve or replace “Beantown” as its defining moniker will undoubtedly continue to simmer, much like the slow-cooked beans that gave the city its enduring, if somewhat debated, nickname.
