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A wonderful group of five circa 1870 photographs of Boston, mounted on one side of a card mount, depicting prominent landmarks and views from the city. Clockwise from top left:

1. The State House on Beacon Street: Built in 1798, an iconic symbol of Boston’s government and history, with its recognizable dome. 2 3/4 x 3 inches. Arched-topped print.
2. A Bird's-Eye View from Beacon Hill: This image looks over Beacon Street, the Public Garden, and the surrounding rooftops, capturing "fashionable" Boston with rows of elegant homes and landmarks stretching out to the horizon. Several sites are identified in the handwritten caption: Boylston Street, Commonwealth Ave., Marlborough Street, Beacon Street, the Charles River, the Common. 5 1/2 x 3 3/4 inches.
3. Boston & Providence Railroad Station on Columbus Avenue: The station is a grand example of 19th-century railway architecture, playing a key role in Boston's transportation hub. 2 3/4 x 3 inches. Arched-topped print.
4. Beacon Street and State House from the Public Garden: The sweeping view over the Public Garden showcases its carefully manicured lawns, trees, and pond, highlighting Boston's dedication to public green spaces at this early date. 5 1/2 x 3 1/2 inches.
5. The Old State House on State Street: Built in 1748, this historic building once served as the seat of the Massachusetts colonial government and remains a critical touchstone of Boston's Revolutionary War history. 5 1/2 x 3 1/2 inches.

These photographs reflect Boston’s urban and architectural transformation during the 19th century, a period of growth marked by the blending of civic, residential, and transportation developments. The bird's-eye view, in particular, showcases Boston’s fashionable neighborhoods, comprising stately homes and proximity to the Public Garden, evoking the city's refinement. Beacon Street’s importance as a residential artery also stands out, lined with significant structures that shaped Boston’s elite cultural and political life.