In Boston, historic symbols loom far larger than their square footage.

The recent dustup over the now-quashed proposal to grant a permanent easement for a luxury condominium development at 25 Beacon St. is only one more example.

For those just returning from vacation, here’s what happened: Gov. Charlie Baker sought authorization for the easement – which would have pertained to up to 300 square feet of land – for the benefit of the luxury condo developer at 25 Beacon to construct window wells for three basement “au pair” apartments and a superintendent’s living quarters in the 6-story limestone and brick mansion. The building had served as the headquarters of the Unitarian Universalist Church for almost 80 years, and stands on the same grounds as John Hancock’s 18th century home once did.

Let’s be pragmatic for a second. The developer wanted to enhance the value and attractiveness of its investment, and the state would have received some revenue from the deal. Okay, second’s over.

The resulting controversy pitted history against the rich; the six condos in the building reportedly sell for $9 million to $11 million. But the tiny strip of land at issue looms far larger in the public consciousness, most of all in terms of precedent.

A similar sentiment arose recently regarding the location of a privately-funded monument to the 492 victims of the 1942 Cocoanut Grove fire. Once again, a condo development is involved. A memorial sidewalk plaque commemorating the tragedy, placed there in 1993, was recently removed. It was close to a building that has been converted into condominiums.

The residents reportedly say they didn’t want to encounter reminder of the tragedy on a daily basis, and that they’re tired of tourists poking around in front of their homes. The developer says the proposed location of the new monument is closer to the actual site of the club’s door. Resolution of the standoff has yet to occur.

Then there’s the Citgo sign. Constructed in 1940, it has become a topological and cultural keystone, glowing its way into the hearts of millions, particularly Red Sox fans. Boston University owns the building it’s mounted on, and wants to sell. There’s concern about the sign’s fate; the Boston Landmarks Commission is studying granting it landmark status. Active discussion has ensued not only about its preservation but also changing sight lines should it be moved. This is serious business, folks.

Since the mid-20th century Boston has vaulted – if local historians can pardon the use of that word – from a red-brick backwater with aging piers to a commercially and economically desirable destination. But along with the commercial strength comes the inevitable feeling that Boston’s essence is being crowded out by the highest bidders. While it took a few years to get a backlash against the demolition of the city’s West End (where Leonard Nimoy grew up), it now takes less than a day.

Let’s hope that the city can preserve the essence that draws people here.