Flatlander - thanks for the cool map link, and the history of some of the streets. I grew up in the South End, between Columbus Ave. and Tremont Street, both of which you mention. Now I wish I had taken the college course you describe. I think Bostonians were just content with being able to navigate the city's streets (I really can, and can even give directions reasonably clearly!), and don't bother studying their history.