GBLS Celebrates 125 Years

A MILESTONE ANNIVERSARY

In 2025, Greater Boston Legal Services proudly celebrates 125 years of providing free civil legal aid to the greater Boston community, ensuring equal access to justice for all.

Founded in 1900 as the Boston Legal Aid Society, GBLS was chartered by sixteen prominent local attorneys who aimed to assist poor people struggling to build lives for their families. As the third legal services organization founded in the United States, the Society served a spectrum of clients from Irish immigrants new to the country, to indigent soldiers heading off to fight in two World Wars. In 1967, amongst a wave of social justice efforts, the Boston Legal Assistance Project formed and worked in parallel to the Society, before merging in 1976 under the banner of Greater Boston Legal Services. In 1996, GBLS merged with Cambridge and Somerville Legal Services (also founded in 1967), which has since served as GBLS’ satellite office north of the Charles River.

More about GBLS' History.

Celebrate with us!

GBLS is planning celebrations in 2025 to commemorate our 125th anniversary. Stay tuned to learn more - including celebrating with us, honoring GBLS' history and impact, and planning for our future!

Want to join us? Email GBLS125@gbls.org with your name and best contact information to stay in touch!