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Six miles west of Boston, MA is a suburb called Chestnut Hill, home of Boston College. This private, 4-year school had a difficult start, opening twice before finally receiving a Charter in March of 1863. The second closing of the school in 1861 was directly related to the outbreak of the Civil War. Once founded, Boston College became the second Jesuit institution of higher learning in Massachusetts and the first located in the Boston area. The 175 acre main campus boasts collegiate gothic architecture; the focal point is Gasson Hall with its tall clock and bell tower. Alumni include many local and national political figures, including former Speaker of the House of Representatives Tip O’Neill and Secretary of State John F Kerry as well as former NFL quarterback Doug Flutie.