The Rathskeller

The Rathskeller "The Rat" (1974-1997)
528 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston

Before smartphones filmed concerts and social media spread the word, there was The Rat - Boston's CBGB, our dingy, sweaty, perfectly imperfect rock & roll basement. The birthplace of Boston punk, this Kenmore Square institution hosted early gigs by The Cars, Talking Heads, Police, and The Ramones, while nurturing the raw energy of local legends like Mission of Burma and 'Til Tuesday.

The graffiti-covered walls, the infamous bathroom, the sticky floors, and that low ceiling that seemed to amplify everything - it wasn't just a club, it was rock & roll boot camp. If you could make it at The Rat, you could make it anywhere. For 23 years, it was where Boston's underground found its voice and where countless music careers were baptized in sweat and beer.

• 100% cotton unisex tee
• Pre-shrunk
• Classic fit
• Available in sizes S-3XL
• Printed in Wisconsin

Part of our "Lost Boston" collection, preserving the spirit of the venues that shaped our city's musical soul.