West End Museum Premiers Rare Interview with Post-Urban Renewal Developer Jerry Rappaport: Presents Controversial, but Historically Significant Perspective

Boston, MA—For years, The West End Museum has hosted exhibitions and programs – in addition to documenting oral histories – reflecting former residents’ perspectives on urban renewal and its legacy. One important, but rarely heard, viewpoint is that of Jerry Rappaport, who redeveloped much of the area in the 1960s and 70s into the Charles River Park complex (now The West End Apartments, held by Equity Residential).

That is about to change.

On October 4, from 6:30 to 8 p.m., The West End Museum will premier “A Conversation with Jerry Rappaport,” a wide-ranging video interview of the developer by Museum board member and former Boston Globe reporter Tom Palmer.

Board member Lois Ascher will introduce the program, followed by the video screening, the showing of an oral history “Share Your Story” video compilation, and a Q&A session moderated by Ascher and Palmer. Admission is $10 for the general public, free to Museum members. Refreshments will be served.

The history of Boston’s West End is rich and varied, with times of great joy and times of great sorrow. Just as varied are the experiences and memories of those who called the old neighborhood home, those involved in its redevelopment, and those who live there today. There is no denying, however, that urban renewal remains one of the saddest and most difficult times in the community’s past.

​To attend the video premier, please register in advance here. Walk-ins will be admitted after registered parties until the audience reaches capacity. Cash or credit card admission payments can be accepted onsite.

About the West End Museum:
The West End Museum is dedicated to the collection, preservation and interpretation of the history and culture of the West End  neighborhood. The Museum’s permanent exhibit, “The Last Tenement,” highlights the immigrant history of the neighborhood through its decimation under Urban Renewal in 1959; two additional galleries feature rotating exhibits. The Museum is located  near North Station at 150 Staniford St. Suite 7. Hours: Tuesday – Friday 12:00pm – 5:00pm; Saturday 11:00am – 4:00pm. Admission is free.