Mariners’ House was founded in 1847 by the managers of the Boston Port & Seamans Aid Society and since that time has provided comfort, hospitality and guidance to the professional mariner.

The origins of the Boston Port and Seamen's Aid Society trace to the maritime ministry established in North Square by Father Edward Thompson Taylor, the renowned 'Sailor Preacher,' whose work among Boston's seafarers began in 1829. It’s mission from the beginning has been to “improve the moral, religious and general condition of seamen and their families; to offer aid and encouragement to the poor and industrious seamen; and to promote the education of seamen’s children.”

While some of the wording may have changed to stay in step with the times, the mission of the Society and the Mariners’ House remains unchanged.

Construction of Mariners’ House itself was completed in 1847 and since that time the requirements to stay in the house have remained exactly the same:

• You must be an active or former sailor and you must be well-behaved.
• Intoxication or the use of Intoxicants in the house are strictly prohibited.

Historical information courtesy of the Massachusetts Historical Society and the Boston Port and Seamen's Aid Society archives.