Jamaica Plain (commonly referred to by its residents as 'JP') is neither "Jamaican" nor a plain. The name Jamaica, in the context of Jamaica Plain, is thought to be an Anglicization of the name Kuchamakin, a sachem of the Massachusett tribe who lived in the vicinity when the first Europeans arrived. Residents of JP consider it an enclave and its lack of proximity to any major highway thoroughfares also encourages that view. Its relatively 'off-the-beaten path' qualities (while an easy subway ride from downtown, it's not 'tourist central') help maintain the distinction that attracts residents and businesses which, though diverse, are politically very liberal. Jamaica Plain is the home to large numbers of political activists as well as visual artists who fuel its vibrant community.
JP has an interesting mix of terrain - it is the greenest neighborhood in Boston (with
Jamaica Pond, the
Arnold Arboretum and
Franklin Park on its borders), as well as the Southwest Corridor Park running through it. JP is also one of the most diverse neighborhoods in Boston - with a large Latino community, a large Lesbian/Gay population and an ethos that honors all creeds, colors, and persuasions. This diversity lends itself to some incredible restaurants, including
El Oriental de Cuba,
Wonder Spice Cafe and
James' Gate. Jamaica Plain is home to many locals, whose families have settled here for generations. You'll probably find them at
Doyle's Cafe, which has been in business for over 125 years.
Along with its population, JP's housing is diverse too - ranging from triple-deckers and apartment towers to large Victorian houses. There are long hills which make JP a popular winter sledding destination. The
Jamaica Pond provides a wonderful place to walk or run around throughout the year.
The Neponset Indians lived near the pond for centuries before the first English settlers, the Curtis family, arrived in the "Jamaica End" of what was the town of
Roxbury in the 1630s. Throughout the colonial period, Jamaica Plain was rural and had farms dotted around it. The pond attracted the very rich who built summer houses (to escape the congestion and heat of downtown Boston). The completion of the Boston & Providence Railroad along the Stony Brook valley in 1834 meant that those who had means could commute into the city and live in JP. Larger houses began to be built near the train stations. After the streetcars (first horse-drawn, later electric) began to run through the area, more and more folks could afford to live in JP and work in Boston. Jamaica Plain is what is referred to as a "streetcar suburb" -- its history has been very influenced by transportation.
The railroad and the Stony Brook encouraged businesses to locate themselves in Jamaica Plain also. Soon the valley included breweries, tanneries, carriage makers and other industries which attracted labor forces. They lived mixed among the old farmhouses, suburban cottages and big Victorian houses in triple-deckers.
JP was part of Roxbury until 1851 - when
West Roxbury broke off to be its own town. The independent West Roxbury's downtown was the area now known as
Monument Square. Eventually, West Roxbury (including JP) voted to be annexed into the expanding City of Boston. Evidence of the past is easily found in Jamaica Plain - walk around and you can see all sorts of buildings and plaques telling you of the eclectic history of Jamaica Plain.
