In Memoriam: Tom Boland aka “Harmonica Tom”

The Inman Square neighborhood has recently lost one of its beloved characters: Tom Boland, aka “Harmonica Tom.” For decades, Tom was a fixture on the benches outside 1369 Coffee House on Cambridge Street, spending warm summer nights busking with his harmonica, a tiny amp and microphone, and oftentimes a handmade sign on which he’d scrawled “Jam with me!” In his later years, he sported an oxygen tank and a homemade Mbira thumb piano that was gifted to him by one of the baristas at the coffee house. He was also known for organizing gatherings called “Bread and Jams” where he provided free meals for homeless people paired with performance by local musicians.

Even into the last stages of his life, Tom had a vibrant and youthful energy about him. We will not forget his dedication to bringing people together through his creativity and spirit. He will be dearly missed.