Database: Markets in Boston

Open-air markets were something quite recent in the Colonies as the early practice was to sell food door to door. 3 open-air markets existed in Boston in the 1730's. They were joined by a covered market in 1742, known as Faneuil Hall, after the rich merchant who founded it. Most vendors were apparently men while buyers were women. People used money but also bartered. Raised tensions regularly occurred with the authorities which tried to regulate activities at the markets, especially with peddlers.