It is not easy, residents say, in part because City Hall has neglected Beacon Hill needs for too many years. Historically, the South End was a minority neighborhood and the city has not made the infrastructure improvements, whether it's the library or a lack of parks. The neighborhood's two business districts show signs of the struggle. Most shops are too small to attract shoppers from other areas and many are family-owned, making it hard for those owners to take time to join the local chamber of commerce or volunteer their time, Merrell says. Beacon Hill is unique in that it has yet to attract a single Starbucks, Bruegger's Bagels or other chain outlet.
Some residents say that's a blessing.
But Beacon Hill has the population and wealth to support much more. Both ends of the hill enjoy territorial views to the east and west.