Winthrop Park is the oldest open space in Harvard Square. It was set aside when Newtowne was founded as the site for the market. In 1834, it was dedicated as a Winthrop Park after John Winthrop, the founder of Newtowne.

This prominent sign stands at one of the entrances to the park. It explains the history of the founding of Newtowne and the history of the park itself. There are many Cambridge Historic Society information signs around Harvard Square; most are small plaques on buildings.