Boston Finance Commission is established.

Created by the Massachusetts legislature, it is located initially at 54 Devonshire Street. Made up initially of five members appointed by the governor and chaired by former mayor Nathan Matthews Jr., its purpose is to monitor city finances. Over the next 18 months, it issues 127 reports charging, “Administrative offices are given out as a reward for party work; and the number and the salaries are increased beyond the requirements of the service.” But it also states, “responsibility for these conditions is by no means confined to the individuals who have profited by them. They are the natural product of the election system and of the state of moral laxity into which a large portion of the community appears to have fallen.” The commission continues in operation today.