[1] In the colonial and post-revolutionary periods, Washington Street was the only connection between Shawmut Peninsula, on which Old Boston was located, and the mainland.

Notable development began in Roxbury in the 19th century, and Nubian Square served as a commercial center in this period.

Around this time, Dudley Square entered a period of reinvestment, as key community buildings, such as the post office, were rebuilt and others, such as the Roxbury Boys and Girls Club and Palladio Hall, were restored.

[9] Roxbury-based newspaper The Bay State Banner had supported a name change, although noted in an editorial that Nubians had owned slaves, too.

[12] Although the question was defeated, it "passed in the surrounding areas" near the square, and Mayor of Boston Marty Walsh subsequently announced that the proposal would be considered further by the city's Public Improvement Commission.