Brookline: The Old "Muddy River"
By Melissa Eckhardt
Revised By Ashley Ginter

On the western side of Boston, where the city skyline is an image in the distance, and the green trolley travels above ground, is the flourishing community of Brookline. Surrounded by the city on three sides, Brookline is distinguished as a diverse suburb that offers both suburban and urban living. This town that was once only known as "Muddy River," "Muddy River Hamlet," and "Boston Commons" was the home mainly for farmers in the early 1700's.

Since then, Brookline has developed into a community of almost 60,000 residents, and most fall in the $50,000 to $75,000 annual income strata. Housing opportunities here are as equally diverse as the population within the five square mile border. David Friedberg, Senior Vice-President of Coldwell Banker-Hunneman says, "Prices do range. There is a wide range of housing from small condominiums to mansions." Properties comprised of single, two, and three family homes are mixed in with modern condominiums and older estates. "The most desired neighborhood is Coolidge Corner--it is most convenient to Boston and has the most retail," said David Bates, Principal, Broker, GRI, and Realtor at Castles Unlimited Realty in Brookline.

Brookline's close proximity to Boston is a notable feature, but should not misrepresent its value as a separate community. Town government is set up as an elected town meeting, which emphasizes interests of an active and involved group of citizens. Preservation is a high priority, with goals for maintaining the integrity of historical buildings, neighborhoods, and parks.

Most recently, Brookline has concentrated on restorations to the JFK birthplace, Larz Anderson Park, and The Country Club, the oldest country club in the United States that was host to the Ryder Cup Golf Tournament this past fall. A current project is a $12 million dollar fund for improvements to the Washington Street Brookline Library.

The Brookline school system has both reputable public and private institutions. Enriched by a diverse student body, and over 600 quality faculty, most Brookline students excel academically and continue on to higher education. Additionally, Brookline public schools have completed projects which earned them national recognition. Two of these programs are the Brookline Early Education Project and Facing History and Ourselves. Brookline schools have recently focused on facility renovations that will provide up-to-date technology in the classrooms.

The business community is also an integral factor in Brookline's prosperity. Coolidge Corner, one of the busiest intersections in town, is active with pedestrian traffic browsing the unique stores that line Harvard Avenue and Beacon Street. Brookline Booksmith, which is located in Coolidge Corner, was voted one of the nation's best bookstores by Publisher's Weekly. This store features author events at the book shop and gift room.

Each year, the Brookline businesses are highlighted by special celebrations honoring them. During the holidays, Brookline attracts more holiday shoppers with their "First Light" festival. Shops and businesses open with a festival of dancers, musicians, and other performers.

Since the days of "Muddy River," Brookline has grown into a highly diverse and prosperous community. "The future of Brookline's real estate market will either stay the same or increase, depending on supply," Bates said. "Right now, there isn't enough development; there is a lot of demand, but not much supply (for housing)," But in terms of the present, Brookline represents the best of both worlds--suburban living with an urban spirit. Friedberg describes it as "a large town, but with small villages. It offers intimate communities."

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