Some Boston neighborhood names commonly take the definite article “the,” while others are often spoken without it. Residents may say “the North End” and “the South End,” and may react strongly if “the” is omitted. In contrast, many people use “Fenway,” “Back Bay,” and “Seaport” without “the” in casual conversation. Some residents insist on “the Back Bay” when asked where they live, even if they cannot explain why. Others find “the Back Bay” unnatural and prefer “Back Bay” alone. Local usage also differs for “Seaport,” which some hear mainly on signs rather than in speech. A neighborhood Facebook poll indicates mixed patterns of usage.
"When it comes to Boston neighborhoods, using the definite article is far from definitive. For some, adding a "the" before the neighborhood name is only natural, a nod to its unique character and historical identity. It's always "the" North End. "The" South End. God forbid you drop the "the" from the West End. Someone will want a word."
"But bump into someone on the street, and you might well hear them dropping the "the." I live in Fenway. They work in Back Bay. Let's grab a drink in Seaport. "It's just Back Bay," Marianne Zemmes, a graduate student at Boston University, said while sitting on a park bench on Commonwealth Avenue. "I've never heard of 'the' Back Bay, actually.""
""We always say 'the' Back Bay, when somebody asks us where we live," said Kathy Ennis, 76. "I have no idea, really, why we do that." Her husband, David Ennis, 75, took a moment to roll the words over in his mouth. "'Back Bay'" he considered. "I live in 'Back Bay.'" After a few seconds, he shook his head. "It doesn't work," he said."
""I've never heard the term 'Seaport,' except on the signs that I see on the way to the airport," said Anthony Sammarco, a local historian. "I guess it's the official name. But do you hear people saying it? No!""
Read at Boston.com
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