Partnerships protect Sister Mary Veronica Park

Donna Brown, right, with Jenni McNeill of South Boston NDC, attended the celebration.

South Boston Neighborhood Development Corporation (South Boston NDC) proudly joined the City of Boston, Mayor Michelle Wu, students from St. Peter Academy, and community partners on Monday to celebrate the acquisition and permanent preservation of Sister Mary Veronica Park, one of South Boston’s beloved pocket parks. 

Interim Parks Commissioner Cathy Baker-Eclipse emphasized the teamwork that made the acquisition possible, thanking the Archdiocese of Boston, community advocates, and South Boston NDC for their leadership in ensuring this vital green space will remain protected.

Mayor Michelle Wu highlighted the park’s legacy, noting that generations of South Boston families have cherished the space — from learning to ride bikes to building snowmen in winter.

“Neighbors have formed special memories here. I have been here in years past, having conversations with community members about what this space means in particular and how important it is to have these small pocket parks wherever we can possibly find them, especially in neighborhoods where we need more trees and we need open space.”

The preservation was made possible through the City’s Open Space Acquisition Fund, the Community Preservation Act, and strong collaboration among residents, elected officials, and the Archdiocese. Archbishop Richard Henning and representatives from the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, who have served South Boston for more than 175 years, reflected on Sister Mary Veronica’s legacy of community devotion and education. 

Sister Margaret Lanen, a sister of Notre Dame de Namur and a former board member of South Boston NDC, said the sisters have so much to be grateful for. The Sisters of Notre Dame came to South Boston In 1860 and eventually opened three schools. “Sadly, those have all closed, but the spirit that was present at that time has passed on to many generations, and we are grateful for the honor of having a park like this to continue the fact that the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur are still present in this community.”

Community members, including the Committee to Save Sister Mary Veronica Park, celebrated the milestone after years of advocacy. “We are here today celebrating the city's recognition of this mighty little park, not just because of its history, but also because of the critical role in keeping the city livable and enjoyable for future generations,” said Vicky Shen, underscoring the grassroots effort that brought together long-term residents and newcomers alike.

“We saved the park.”

South Boston NDC is the holder of the conservation restriction. After the ceremony, Donna Brown, executive director of South Boston NDC, said: “I am thrilled that South Boston NDC can play a part in the long-term preservation of this treasured open space. The strong advocacy of local residents has ensured that future generations will be able to enjoy a shady respite.”

With plans already underway for new plantings, including a young elm tree, Sister Mary Veronica Park will continue to serve as a treasured neighborhood gathering space for generations to come.

Sister Margaret Lanen.