ARMA 2003: boston: converging technology, knowledge, business, and information management.

• Author: Swartz, Nikki
• Position: Special section - Association of Records Management Administrators

All About Boston

Join ARMA in Boston this October to explore the future of the profession in a city where history and business converge

The birthplace of American history, Boston is equal parts colonial charm, high-tech sophistication, and educational Eden. The New England city was founded in 1630, 10 years after the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth. Today, the Boston area, with more than 3 million residents, is a thriving metropolis of medicine, high-tech, finance, and education, with 50 colleges and universities. But it has not forgotten its past.

Much of this sea-faring city was created by extensive landfill operations that began in the early 1700s and continued into the 20th century. Due to the harbor city's small geographic size, visitors can easily get from one part of town to another on foot. In fact, Boston is often called "America's walking city." But, if you prefer to ride, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) provides excellent service to just about anywhere in the city. The "T" connects all major downtown points of interest as well as areas beyond the city's central district.

From historical haunts, walking trails, and renowned museums to fabulous fall foliage and harbor excursions, Boston has something for everyone. Tours by foot, trolley, bike, bus, or ship are available. No matter how you get around, though, make sure to experience everything Boston has to offer.

Hotbed of American History

To see where the American Revolution was conceived and how it began, put on some comfortable shoes and walk the Freedom Trail (www.freedomtrail.org), Boston's premier tourist and historical attraction. The 2.5-mile walking tour through historic Boston encompasses 16 of the most treasured sites in American history and brings the American Revolution to life. Follow the Trail's red painted bricks to the Boston Common, the Massachusetts State House, Park Street Church, Granary Burying Ground, King's Chapel, Ben Franklin's statue, Old South Meeting House, Old Corner Bookstore, Old State House, Boston Massacre Site, Faneuil Hall, Paul Revere House, Old North Church, Copp's Hill Burying Ground, the U.S.S. Constitution, and the Bunker Hill Monument.

The National Park Service offers free guided tours of the Freedom Trail, but visitors also can rent an audio guide at the Visitor Information Center on Boston Common. The Trail itself is always open for walking, but individual sites have varying operating times and some charge admission. Depending on how distracted you get along the way, the Trail usually requires four hours of walking time. But there is no better way to experience Boston.

One stop on the Trail, Faneuil Hall, has been the heart of Boston for 255 years. Faneuil Hall, built by and named for Boston's wealthiest merchant, and nearby Quincy Market, was home to merchants, fishermen, and meat and produce sellers, and it provided a platform for Boston's most famous speakers. This is where Samuel Adams rallied the city's citizens around the cause of independence from Great Britain and where George Washington toasted the nation on its first birthday. Once the site of many spirited public debates, the building now houses a marketplace of many unusual shops and eclectic eateries. Don't miss the Bull Market Pushcarts, which are located under the north and south canopies in the Quincy Market building. The ever-changing pushcarts showcase the colorful wares of more than 100 New England artisans and entrepreneurs, each hand-picked for uniqueness.

Along the Trail, you will visit the Boston Tea Party Ship and Museum (www.bostonteapartyship.com). Here, you can board a replica of one of three original Boston Tea Party ships, participate in a Revolution re-enactment presentation by throwing tea chests overboard, engage in discussions with colonial-clad guides, or sip tax-free tea.

Located in historic Constitution Plaza, the U.S.S. Constitution Museum (www.ussconstitutionmuseum.org) brings to life the story of the oldest commissioned warship in the U.S. Navy, "Old Ironsides." Through hands-on exhibits, historic artifacts, computer-simulated reenactments, and public programming, this free museum in the Charlestown Navy Yard gives visitors a personal connection to American...