Scarlett O’Hara House

Beacon Hill in Boston is one of the city’s most historic neighborhoods, filled with red brick buildings and streets that feel like a trip back in time. At the end of one alleyway is what appears to be a large mansion in the distance. It might seem peculiar that such a large home could exist in the middle of downtown Boston, but this elegant-looking house is not a home at all, it’s a clever optical illusion with an interesting background.

Decades ago, the end of the alleyway at Rollins Place off Revere Street was nothing more than an ordinary brick and concrete wall. Developers believed the area looked unsightly, so a faux Greek Revival–style home, complete with columns, shutters, and a small patio, was built to cover up the space. It was nicknamed the Scarlett O’Hara House after the protagonist of Gone with the Wind and its resemblance to the Twelve Oaks mansion from the film. Despite appearing to be a grand residence, the “house” only serves as an entrance to two separate homes located in the buildings on opposite sides of the alleyway.

A rather unique sight and worth taking a quick look at if you happen to be in the area.