In Boston, a commemorative plaque is mounted on every other building, tree and rock... and we're proud of it, b'gum'! We just checked the historic museum gift shops and the coast is clear of tourists, stoners and field-trippers until February vacation. Here are a few gift ideas for the history buff (or the ignorant).

The people at Historic New England do not mess around. We're getting misty about their spectacular historic photos of Boston. Their collection includes ocean and maritime scenes, aerials and skylines of yore, old-timey sports photos (go Braves!), and general life in the Hub. Available framed and unframed - $40 - $110. If you can't choose just one photo, start by browsing through the Old Boston Post Card Book ($9.95) till you make up your mind.

Take a stroll to the North End for a quick slice -- of history! The Paul Revere House Museum Shop offers ye this tiny, shiny ornament depicts Boston in all of its cobblestoned glory for only $10. Tuck it into that Christmas card to Grandma and you're totally covered.

Ooh, did someone say hedgehog pudding? "Recipes from a 17th Century Kitchen" ($4.50) will make the offal-eating food snobs in your life squeal with delight. This handy little recipe book by Ron R. Daly features authentic recipes for very old school Yankee goodies, plus scary household hints such as "How to Keep Lobster A Quarter of a Year." Yummo!

At the USS Constitution Museum Shop You can get a mini ship in a bottle - just 1 1/4" high) - for $16.00. They have big ones, too for $69.95.

And we can so picture your favorite goth pirate rocking this U.S.S. Constitution Charm in silver ($20). Also good in gold ($120). Bling!