Boston Harbor Islands Comprehensive Plan

Boston Harbor Islands Comprehensive Plan

V l^Oibk D lf\ c ' x 035//& 299- Boston Harbor Islands Comprehensive Plan

prepared for

Massachusetts Department of Natural Resources

by

mapc Metropolitan Area Planning Council

The preparation of this report was financially aided through a federal grant from the Land and Water Conservation Fund program of the Depart­ ment of Interior, Bureau of Outdoor Recreation Project #25-00065. October 1972 For all those who have ever sailed, are sailors at heart or have dreamed of the days when sailing ships plied the waters of Boston Harbor, we would like to identify our Harbor Islands’ Logo.

Our experts tell us that this particular vessel was known as a four masted, double topsail bark or four masted bark with double topsail. A tendency in this country to use the term ship or "shipentine" never quite caught on and the term remained bark or barque as it was known in England.

Cover Photograph: City of Boston Skyline as seen from Outer Brewster Island. Elissa M. Landre, MAPC Staff. Metropol i tan Area Planning Council

4 4 School Street Boston, Massachusetts 02108

Richard M. Doherty (6 1 7 ) 523 - 2454 Executive Director

Commissioner Arthur W. Brownell Department of Natural Resources 100 Cambridge Street Boston, Massachusetts 02202

Dear Commissioner Brownell:

On behalf of the Metropolitan Area Planning Council, I am pleased to transmit the “Boston Harbor Islands Comprehensive Plan,” which has been prepared by the Planning Council under contract to the Massachusetts Department of Natural Resources in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 742 of the Acts of the Massachu­ setts General Court, 1970.

The Council was particularly pleased to have been selected to prepare this Plan, since it represents the culmination of recommendations contained in our 1967 report entitled “Open Space and Recreation Plan and Program for Metropolitan Boston — Volume 2 - The Boston Harbor Islands.” Implementation of the region’s Open Space Plan is a prime goal of the Council.

We feel that the Plan which follows is an imaginative, yet highly practical response to the mandates of the General Court and the guidelines which you have established as Commissioner of the agency with prime re­ sponsibilities for Plan implementation. We also believe that the Plan proposals balance the needs of preserving our dwindling natural resources and providing varied recreational opportunities to all residents of the region.

The Council wishes to express its gratitude to you and the members of the staff of the Department of Na­ tural Resources who have been of great assistance during the course of the Plan. The cooperation and assistance of numerous local, state and federal agencies, many of whom will play vital roles in the im­ plementation of the Plan, is acknowledged with great appreciation.

Finally, the key role of the Project Advisory Committee (PAC) should be noted. The PAC, composed of representatives of the chief executives of the cities and towns bordering the Harbor, and state and federal agencies, met at regular intervals during the course of the project. It provided an invaluable source of insight and input to the Plan, and served as a review body and “sounding board” for Plan proposals. To all of these agencies and groups, the Council extends its gratitude.

In summary, the Council is pleased to have played a key role in the preparation of this Plan, and we stand ready to be of further assistance in any way which you deem appropriate. We are proud to transmit “The Boston Harbor Islands Comprehensive Plan.”

Very truly yours,

JJMcC:ddf Attachment

Officers: John J. McCarthy Mrs. W illiam B. Castle Neal Holland Mrs. Theodore C. McKie James J. Matera P re sid e nt Vice-President T reasurer S e cre ta ry Asst. Treasurer Table of Contents

Page Page Page Foreword 7 Spectacle Island 67 Ragged Island 109 Spectacle Island Plan 69 Sarah Island 109 Summary 11 Castle Island 71 Langlee Island 109 Castle Island Plan 72 Button Island 111 Summary of Proposed Improvements 12 Ouincy Bay Outer Harbor Sub- Hingham Harbor Islands System 75 Plans 111 Part One George’s, Gallop’s, and Lovell’s Nut, Raccoon, and Hangman History and Present Conditions 15 Islands 76 Islands 113 Natural History of Boston George’s Island 76 Nut Island 113 Harbor 15 Gallop’s Island 78 Raccoon Island 113 Cultural History 20 Lovell’s Island 80 Hangman Island 113 Present Conditions 24 George's, Gallop’s, and Lovell’s Nut, Raccoon, and Hangman Analysis of Recreation Demand Islands Plans 81 Islands Plans 114 and Standards 27 George’s Island Plan 81 Nut Island Plan 114 Gallop’s Island Plan 84 Raccoon Island Plan 114 Part Two Lovell’s Island Plan 85 Hangman Island Plan 115 Design Policies 31 The Brewsters 87 Support Facilities 115 Introduction 31 Great Brewster 87 Summary of Cost and Priorities 120 General Policies 31 Middle Brewster 88 Policies for Preservation of Outer Brewster 88 Administration 124 Island Ecology 31 Little Brewster 89 Recreation Policies 32 Calf Island 90 Appendix 133 Transportation Policies 32 Little Calf Island 90 Appendix I Green Island 90 Summary of Prior Harbor Part Three The Graves 90 Islands Analysis and Development Pro­ Shag Rocks 91 Plans and Programs 133 gram for The Boston Harbor Is- Appendix II The Brewster Islands Plans 91 lands Park System 35 Beach Areas and Island Alternative Evaluation 35 Perimeters 134 Transportation and Access 36 Hingham Bay Sub-System 93 Appendix III Overview of Comprehensive Wildlife Observed on the Plan 41 Peddock’s Island 94 Harbor Islands 136 Peddock’s Island Plan 96 Appendix IV Individual Island Analysis Plan The Most Common Existing and Program 42 Bumpkin Island 101 Trees 145 Dorchester Bay Inner Harbor Bumpkin Island Plan 103 Appendix V Sub-System 43 Harbor Transportation 149 Deer Island 43 Grape, Slate, and Sheep Islands 105 Appendix VI Grape Island 105 Costs 154 Deer Island Plan 45 Slate Island 106 Appendix VII Long Island 47 Sheep Island 106 Chapter 742 of the Acts of the Rainsford Island 52 Massachusetts Legislature, Long Island Plan 53 Grape, Slate, and Sheep Islands 1970 162 Rainsford Island Plan 55 Plans 106 Photographs 163 Grape Island Plan 106 Moon Island 57 Map Sources 164 Slate Island Plan 107 Bibliography 164 Moon Island Plan 59 Sheep Island Plan 108 Acknowledgements 165 Thompson Island 61 Index 166 Thompson Island Plan 64 Hingham Harbor Islands 108 Agency & Staff Credits 168

FOREWORD

In this, the hundredth year since the developed for conservation and rec­ founding of a national system of reation purposes. The type of recre­ parks, a major public debate is being ational development and the degree conducted over the future of the Na­ of conservation was to followthe gen­ tion’s scenic and natural resources. eral guidelines of a 1967 report of Important questions are being raised the Metropolitan Area Planning over the purpose of public parkland. Council entitled Open Space Plan and Increased leisure-time and a growing Program for Metropolitan Boston; hunger for recreation have contribu­ Volume 2; Boston Harbor. This re­ ted to an intensive utilization of our port had detailed the general prob­ parks. The intensity of this recre­ lems and potentials of the Harbor ational use has threatened to destroy and issued the challenge of bringing many of the natural qualities that the Harbor Islands Park System to were to be preserved by the creation fruition. That report stated that: of the parks. “Boston Harbor is one of the Clearly one technique for the reso­ most beautiful harbors and could lution of conflicts between recreation be one of the most delightful and conservation uses is the develop­ parks in America. Its islands and ment of a sound program of resource shores have been intimately con­ management, based upon a compre­ nected with the growth of Massa­ hensive and totally coordinated plan. chusetts’ capital city. It achieved This philosophy has been a basic ten­ for Boston early preeminence in et of the Comprehensive Open Space commerce and industry and is and Recreation Plan for Metropoli­ rich in historical associations.” tan Boston; and has been the over­ The landmark 1970 act specified riding purpose behind the prepara­ that the Islands be developed in ac­ tion of this — The Boston Harbor Is­ cordance with a Comprehensive Plan lands Comprehensive Plan. for the proposed recreation and con­ The Islands of Boston Harbor have servation purposes. Most important­ long been recognized as badly mis­ ly, the Legislature authorized a used natural resources of great po­ $3,500,000 bond issue to finance tential. Pollution, institutional abuse, planning, acquisition, and develop­ land fill, and a variety of military and ment programs to implement the Act. private uses have pre-empted the The Massachusetts Department of public enjoyment of one of New Natural Resources contracted with England’s finest natural resources. the Metropolitan Area Planning Numerous proposals for the future Council to build upon its previous use of the Islands have been ad­ plans by conducting the necessary vanced over the years. These pro­ technical and design studies for the posals ranged from intensive resi­ preparation of the required Compre­ dential and recreational develop­ hensive Plan. ment to conservation and restoration In the first steps of preparing the of the Islands’ natural beauty. Plan a project Advisory Committee The Massachusetts Legislature, by was established bythe Commissioner enacting Chapter 742 of the Acts of of the Department of Natural Re­ 1970, brought to a close these years sources. This Committee, consisting of public debate. of representatives of the cities and This act specified that the pri­ towns bordering the Harbor, state vately held islands of Boston Harbor and federal agencies with an interest should be acquired by the Massachu­ in the Harbor, and a variety of pri­ setts Department of Natural Re­ vate groups and organizations, sources and, together with the is­ worked with the planners to develop lands already under public control, guidelines and policies for the Com­

7 prehensive Plan. The Committee report, will be water use. Specific representatives assisted with the in­ areas for a variety of water and tidal ventorying of natural and man-made uses are currently established by resources and served as a “sounding Coast Guard and other public agency board” for alternative plans for the regulations. Future intensive utili­ islands. Many of their comments and zation of the water's surface will recommendations were directly in­ provide new reasons for zoning of corporated in the island plans or in water uses. Special uses of the Har­ the policies for development. bor such as moonlight fireworks dis­ There exists in the Metropolitan plays, sailing pageants, and other Boston region an extreme demand “spectaculars” will contribute to the for recreation facilities of all types. enjoyment of the Harbor and its Is­ This is especially true of the core lands. Such activities are too numer­ cities Including and surrounding ous and varied to be anticipated and Boston. Even more pressing is a need, will be subject to the management that is difficult to measure, for areas decisions of the public agencies that are conserved in a predomin­ charged with the responsibility for ately natural state. administering the Park. The Islands of Boston Harbor are This report on the Boston Harbor an opportunity to provide important Islands Comprehensive Plan sum­ recreation areas and places for the marizes in one volume the back­ ground, policies and plans for the sensible management and quiet con­ templation of natural resources. The Islands. It is accompanied with a folding Summary and map of the Islands' significance to historical Harbor Islands Park System. A limited and cultural development of the Com­ quantity of additional and more de­ monwealth and the nation provides tailed reports on each of the Islands an additional education and recre­ was prepared and bound as a techni­ ation resource. cal publication. The completion of The fragile island ecosystems and this report and its submission by the limited areas do not provide sufficient Massachusetts Department of Natu­ space to supply all the demands for ral Resources to the General Court, recreation or natural environment signals that the Harbor Islands Park for the region. The approach has System, so long the dream of many, been to prepare a plan that empha­ is now well on its way to becoming a sizes the unique natural and man­ reality. made characteristics of each island. Recreation areas are provided to an extent that does not endanger natu­ ral environments. Wherever con­ flicts between uses were found they were resolved in favor of the con­ servation considerations. While this plan is an important step in implementing the dream of a Harbor Islands Park System, it does not and can not resolve all of the di­ verse issues of future use of the Har­ bor and its Islands. The plan concen­ trates on land use, or more appropri­ ately island use. Another important consideration of the future of Boston Harbor, not fully dealt with in this

8

SUMMARY

The steadily increasing population of development of the Islands while the Greater Boston area, while con­ guaranteeing and emphasizing the suming land for industrial and resi­ natural appeal of the vegetation and dential purposes, is simultaneously wildlife in their harbor surroundings. demanding more recreational facili­ The Harbor Islands can be separa­ ties and open spaces for its leisure ted into three groups: The Dorchester hours. With a trend toward a shorter Bay-Inner Harbor Sub-System which work week and an increased desire includes Deer, Long, Rainsford, to spend more time out-of-doors, a Moon, Thompson, Spectacle and considerable strain has been placed Castle Islands; the Quincy Bay-Outer on existing recreational facilities. Harbor Sub-System which includes Additional open spaces for leisure George’s, Gallop’s, Lovell’s, and the time activities and the passive con­ Brewster Islands; and the Hingham templation of nature are much needed Bay Sub-System which includes Ped- within the metropolitan area. Many dock’s, Bumpkin, Grape, Slate, private citizens and organized groups Sheep, Nut, Raccoon, Hangman, and have demanded the development of the Hingham Harbor Islands. new programs and places to satisfy In order to best preserve the na­ this growing requirement. tural characteristics of the Islands The Boston Harbor Islands, if while developing their recreational properly developed, can realize their potential, the Metropolitan Area potential as a major conservation and Planning Council makes the follow­ recreation resource for the metro­ ing recommendations: politan area. Scattered across Boston 1. Develop a ferry system which Harbor, the more than 30 islands, provides frequent and inexpensive totalling an approximate 1200 acres, access to the Islands. A publicly- lie within a 25 mile radius of a popu­ regulated, privately-operated ferry lation in excess of three million peo­ service using conventional craft will ple. The Islands’ potential for boat­ best fulfill the goals and policies ing, swimming, fishing, and other established for island access. forms of outdoor activity, while an 2. Recognize the unique character asset, is also a challenge for the peo­ of each island by emphasizing its ple of the Commonwealth to conserve historical and natural attributes in and protect as well as develop this the park system development. great natural resource. 3. Limit future uses of the Islands An area once intimately connected to such facilities as derive an immedi­ with the growth and expansion of ate benefit from, or make a direct Metropolitan Boston, the Harbor Is­ contribution to, their waterfront lo­ lands stand ignored and deterior­ cation, and use materials indigenous ated after half a century of neglect. to the Islands when designing facili­ No plan previously prepared for the ties wherever possible. development of the Islands has taken 4. Minimize the potential adverse full advantage of their enormous po­ environmental impacts of the de­ tential. Only today, as the demand velopment of recreational facilities for new recreation and conservation and required utilities by locating them areas increases, are we facing the away from important natural areas. challenge and the opportunity pre­ 5. Minimize the alteration of na­ sented by the Islands of the Harbor. tural landforms and topography by Water-oriented recreation is a ma­ locating facilities in areas that are jor part of the plans and proposals topographically suited. contained within this report. High 6. Provide for the planned manage­ priority is given to recreational ment of the natural resources of the

11 Islands to prevent their exploita­ ments. Make every effort to minimize intensive recreational development; tion, destruction, or neglect by con­ automobile access to islands that are indoor athletic center, restaurant, centrating intensive-use activities connected to the mainland by cause­ public functions building, museum, and facilities in areas that can sup­ way or bridge. and a children’s playground. port large numbers of visitors, and by providing only limited access to RAINSFORD ISLAND — Construct fragile ecosystems. pier for maximum of five small boats 7. Protect salt-marsh areas on the Summary of Proposed to facilitate maintenance — Create Islands because of their value as es­ Improvements walking trails, and informal swim­ tuary nurseries for marine and other ming beach — Build day use shelter. wildlife. Protect rare or unusual forms Dorchester Bay-Inner Harbor of animal and plant life which con­ Sub-System MOON ISLAND — Develop hill-top tribute greatly to the special char­ picnic area, with gravel walking acter of the Harbor Islands. DEER ISLAND — Relocate existing trails — Develop fish hatchery to re­ place sewage reservoir — Construct 8. Provide a wide range of recre­ House of Correction to mainland road as access to facilities — Rebuild ation alternatives which reflects the site — Utilize southern end of Island large fishing pier at north end of Is­ demand for such facilities in the as large, informal park and initiate land with picnic area, bus stop, park­ Boston Metropolitan Area. planting program to reforest Island ing lot, comfort station. 9. Improve and manage the histor­ and to screen sewage treatment ical resources of the Islands to plant — Create open grass areas for THOMPSON ISLAND — Develop achieve their maximum enjoyment as playfields and children’s playground Model Farm designed to handle recreational and educational facili­ — Develop a three-mile system of 100,000 visitors annually — Develop ties. bicycle trails and extensive walking the salt-marsh as a major wildlife 10. Provide facilities for fishermen trails — Expand present beach to ac­ sanctuary with trails, floating board­ including fishing piers, fish cleaning commodate 200 people — Develop walks, viewing platforms, and towers facilities, boat launching sites, and picnic areas — Develop mooring area — Develop a large beach for 300 equipment rental centers wherever and dock space for 50 small boats — bathers with bathhouse and picnic possible. Construct a fishing pier. 11. Locate private recreational area. boating facilities throughout the Is­ LONG ISLAND — Construct a major SPECTACLE ISLAND — Reclaim lands Park System and relate them to visitor Center adjacent to ferry pier, dump area by periodic compaction the amount of use that each island with dock facility for small boat land­ — Establish trail system — Construct can properly support. ings, and fishing — Relocate road to wall to retain litter within dump 12. Provide appropriately located facilitate Island development — Build areas — Develop 300 acres of prime and designed facilities for swimmers, a launching ramp for small boats mooring areas for 500 small boats, picnickers, campers, and other per­ with parking for 40 cars with trail­ a marina, dock space for 100 boats, sons seeking a variety of-forms of ers — Renovate Fort Strong for his­ locker and winter storage facilities passive and active recreation. toric interpretation — Encourage for boats — Develop informal play- 13. Emphasize the Boston Harbor wildlife activity with limited nature fields and swimming beach at cen­ Islands Park System as a recreation trails, in freshwater wetlands area — ter and southern end of Island. area for the Commonwealth and Develop two group campsites to ac­ particularly for the metropolitan core commodate 150 campers each — De­ CASTLE ISLAND — Restore Fort In­ communities of Boston, Brookline, velop a perimeter bicycle trail and dependence as historical museum — Cambridge, Chelsea, Everett, and extensive walking trails — Develop a Rehabilitate and expand present Somerville, which have limited open swimming beach for 400 bathers on MDC facilities for swimming, fishing, spaces for recreational activities. the south shore — Create two large picnicking — Establish bicycle rental 14. Emphasize public, water-borne open grass areas both with playfields, facilities — Landscape grounds. transportation to the Islands in order one with a swimming pool — Develop to minimize traffic impacts on local picnic areas — Phase out (with ap­ Quincy Bay-Outer Harbor Sub- shoreline neighborhoods and elimi­ propriate replacement of facilities on System nate the need for unnecessary and the mainland) Long Island Chronic expensive road and bridge improve­ Disease Hospital and reuse area for GEORGE’S ISLAND — Renovate

12 army building near ferry site as major Hingham Bay Sub-System Island Visitor Center for Quincy Bay Sub-System — Restore Fort Warren PEDDOCK’S ISLAND — Rehabilitate as historical site comparable to Na­ Fort Andrews for multipurpose con- tional Park Service program for ference/recreation center including military fortifications such as Fort dormitory, meeting, living, dining Sumter in South Carolina — Add Is­ space for 350-500 people, adminis­ land to Freedom Trail — Require tration center, library, offices, craft full-time Island administrator during center, Harbor Island Inn, rental peak season of Island use. housing, gymnasium, field research station — Renovate guardhouse for GALLOP’S ISLAND — Rehabilitate Visitor Center with display and audi­ existing dock to accommodate fer­ torium space, year-round educa­ ries and charter boats — Construct tional activities — Develop beach landscaped quay with multi-purpose area for 300 bathers, with picnic pavilion — Develop beach for 100 site — Create three group camp sites bathers and picnic area east of dock to accommodate 150 campers — Cre­ — Build three “clambake pits,” each ate managed wildlife area to maintain pit area to accommodate up to 100 Black Crowned Night Heron rookery people. Create open grass area for and encourage other wildlife. playfield — Require full-time resi­ dent administrator during peak sea­ BUMPKIN & GRAPE ISLANDS — son of Island use. Construct small dock for ferry, pri­ vate boat traffic — Develop group campsite for 50-75 people, with LOVELL’S ISLAND — Develop beach chemical toilet, each campsite areas on both sides of Island with a equipped with wooden tent plat­ central bathhouse and two picnic forms for 10 campers, with fireplaces areas — Develop 30 individual camp­ — Create walking trails — Improve sites, with central comfort station, potential swimming beaches. for tenting, equipped with wooden tent platform, stone fireplace, picnic SLATE ISLAND — Institue program of table, and isolated by screen planting selective clearing for walking trails — Partially rehabilitate military forti­ adjacent to natural areas and historic fications — Require full-time resident slate quarries — Provide interpretive administrator during peak season of markers to describe Island’s geology, Island use. history and wildlife — Maintain Is­ land. THE BREWSTER ISLANDS — Create Boston Harbor Outer Sanctuary com­ HINGHAM HARBOR ISLANDS — posed of the Islands, adjacent water, Maintain Islands as small natural rocks and flats to assure preserva­ preserves — Develop walking trails, tion and management of this re­ planting and selective clearing pro­ source — Develop 27 “primitive” gram. campsites, no water, wood; chemical toilets only, on Outer Brewster, Middle NUT ISLAND — Construct small Brewster and Calf Islands — Estab­ fishing pier and landscape Island. lish underwater park for recreational diving for shipwrecks, marine habitat SHEEP & RACCOON ISLANDS — study — Encourage sanctuary empha­ Maintain Islands with conservation sizing marine-dominated environ­ program. ment.

PART ONE HISTORY AND PRESENT CONDITIONS

Natural History of Boston moving glacier gathered till and clay Harbor into sticky masses as it ground across soft bedrock. Slowly the masses ac­ The Harbor is part of the Boston cumulated more till and were molded Basin, created millions of years ago into their characteristic streamlined, by geological activity in the earth’s oval shape. These geological pheno­ crust, which left the Boston area as mena are more common in Massa­ a lowland plain surrounded by a high chusetts than the rest of New Eng­ ridge of bedrock, or fault line. The land and are especially numerous in eroded remains of this ridge include the Boston Basin. The most famous the Blue Hills to the south and bed­ drumlins in America are located in rock hills west and northwest of the the Boston area, including Bunker City. Hill and the sites of several Revolu­ More than 10,000 years ago New tionary battles. Drumlins may occur England and the Boston Basin lay as scattered single hills or in clusters, buried beneath glacial ice. As the ice or swarms, as they are sometimes sheet melted in response to a warming called. Most of the islands in Boston of the climate, smooth, rounded Harbor are composed of drumlins, hills or drumlins were left behind. Al­ members of the swarm lying in the most all drumlins point in the direc­ Boston Basin. As the ice sheets mel­ tion of the movement of the great ted, the level of the sea rose leaving ice sheets. Geologists are still unsure the drumlins as islands. of the actual process of drumlin for­ A number of islands in Boston mation, but they believe that the Harbor are outcrops of bedrock and

15 not drumlins. These include: Little, is geologically important for it pro­ Second, Boston is situated on or near Middle and Outer Brewster, Calf, vides some evidence of high moun­ several routes frequently followed b> Green, Raccoon, Hangman, Slate, tains which were located in the Bos­ low air-pressure systems which also and the small islands in Hingham ton area more than 300 million years contribute to continuous weather Harbor. Their shape and size is due ago. The rock is believed to have been fluctuations while assuring a rather to glacial erosion, the result of the formed from debris, gathered by gla­ dependable supply of precipitation. moving ice removing preglacial ciers which flowed off these moun­ Third, Boston's coastal location has soils and grinding down the bedrock tains. The glacial till was cemented a moderating effect on seasonal tem­ hills. together over millions of years of perature extremes. The shoreline of Boston Harbor is geological activity and formed the very irregular and reflects a variety solid tillite, which was then exposed of geological forces as well as man­ by glacial erosion of succeeding ice made alterations to the environment. ages. Continuous erosion by the sea and wind has resulted in a considerable Climate reduction in size of several islands. Areas of shallow water and sub­ Three important factors are respon­ merged boulders around these is­ sible for Boston’s weather. First, the lands hint at their previous dimen­ latitude of 42' North is in a prevail­ sions. Other islands have disappeared ing west to east flow of air with peri­ completely. odic intrusions of large bodies of air Squaw Rock in the Squantum sec­ coming from the tropical and polar tion of Quincy is an outcrop of bed­ regions. This results in variable rock known as tillite. This formation weather subject to rapid change.

16 inches m p h degrees Suc: S Dp, f Commerce of Dept, S. U Source: * J F M A M J JA S O N D WEATHER DATA NORMALS* Rainfal I

Vegetation Landscape and Vegetation h n o ae-eae sports. water-related of endthe Daysignals Labor season, and tivity hr r 100 106days,areclear there days of ebr wih ass h boating and swimming the seasons causes to be relatively which tember, summer the during above or the 60’s in is temperature average The elements, weather averages25°about andF. the January in of variable days per month. per days clear.Fog occurs on an average of two will three that likely most is it days, seven any Given distinct patterns. seasonal no with weather, cloudy of Inshowers.the averagethunder year as heavy summeroccurring theoften three and inches, four rain with during between is rainfall The monthly year.average the throughout constant into begins extends Septemberand in early generally winds strong southwest with season hurricane The current. westerly warm the displace locally the celebratedsea by breeze, as in­ airflows relieved frequently with summer, in southwest the ter, win­ in northwest the from generally tors provide differing habitats for for habitats differing provide tors is the beginning of the summer ac­ summer the Day of beginning Memorial the is Traditionally, brief. be cloudy, two partly cloudy and two cloudy partly two becloudy, 159 anddays weather, cloudy partly generally remain area Boston the in October. winter the during faster hour per ln n nml communities. animaland plant for conditions required of variety a the sea, soils,and the climate are including all closely geology, the land­ scape, the of elements physical The ots f a, hog ery Sep­ early through May, of months July. in 78°F, about and February, ad rm h co wtr ufc to surface water cool the from land are afternoons summer Hot months. miles two about speed wind mean nerltd Teeeeet provide These elementsinterrelated. ie Dfeecs n hs ntrl fac­ natural these in Differences life. Temperature, the mostseasonably the Temperature, uiiy n peiiain levels precipitation and Humidity are Harbor the in winds Prevailing fications. newspace provideand for forti­ forts old around areasthe clear to IIWar World removed during were them of evto Crs lne 100,000 planted Corps servation public for sites and areas resort as developed islandswere some as ted e a nqe obnto o natural of combination unique a fer ie re o te sad, u many but Islands, the on trees pine Con­ Civilian the Depression,Great 1800’s. the the During in institutions A crops. of planting the to and permit firewood for colonists byearly away cleared were which trees, native of forests with covered once were drumlins the that indicate rec­ords Earliest man. by altered sively have Islands beenexten­ Harbor the pca mcoevrnet ta of­ that micro-environments special provide Islands year. The the during limited number of trees were replan­ weretrees of number limited oe o te sad o vst them visit or Islands the on homes maketheir that shorebirds andbirds many the of for song­ coverand food Islands. the on found commonof New England wild flowers strains varietiesand many are There Sumac, Bayberry, include shrubs property. landscapedmost of characteristic is maintained, actively on vegetation, The brush. thick the Seed­ islands. few a on stand still landscape previous of remains the aretrees, mainly existing plants, Other of varieties majority. the in are sionafter a tendedarea is abandoned succes­ plant ain appear to first the hk Cer, as ad Elms. The and Oaks, Cherry, Choke Maples, include trees Common dix. Appen­ the in detail some in cussed dis­ and listed are flowers wild and still are that islands the of portions of part a form these trees from lings osnIy Rs, n Blackberry. and Rose, Poison-Ivy, Peach, Poplar, Pine, Apple, Birch, specimens mature Some plantings. are that weeds growing Fastbrush. impenetrable Islandsisthick, Harbor the on vegetation upland the of istic h lnsae n vgtto of vegetation and landscape The h vrey f lr fud provide found flora of variety The h mr cmo tes shrubs trees, common more The character­ predominant the Today 17 resources in an area confined by the surrounding ocean.

Wildlife and Marine Life

The water, marshes, and open areas of the islands in Boston Harbor pro­ vide habitats for a wide variety of birds, mammals, finfish and shell­ fish. Birds are the most abundant form of wildlife on the Islands. Large num­ bers of herring gulls and black-backed gulls nest in the tall grasses and along the steep, rocky slopes. They find attractive breeding sites on the Is­ lands and abundant supplies of food. Their shallow nests, loosely con­ structed of dried grass and roughly a foot in diameter are tucked in among low growing brush and debris on sev­ eral of the islands. In addition to the natural food supply of small crabs, mussels, clams, and other marine life, the gulls scavenge at sewage outfalls, dumps, fish piers, and pig­ geries. The large number of gulls in the Harbor is both a problem and an asset. Because the gulls obtain from 25 to 40 percent of their food from the refuse of human activities, they con­ sume a noticeable proportion of the wastes being dumped in the water and along shoreli nes. The major prob­ lems presented by large gull popula­ tions are the hazard to aircraft at Logan Airport and the potential of water supply contamination. A more detailed discussion of the gull popu­ lation may be found in the Appendix. Other types of birds in the Harbor consist of common songbirds, shore- birds, and migratory waterfowl. The thick, healthy vegetation of the Is­ lands and swarms of insect life pro­ vide cover, freedom from predators and food. The marsh areas of Thomp­ son and Long Islands are regular feeding and loafing stations for resi­ dent and migratory ducks, geese, and brant. Several uncommon species, such as Egrets, Black-Crowned Night

18 Herons, Great Blue Herons, Cormor­ ants, and Common Terns all are re­ ported to have nesting colonies on some of the Islands. While rats are the predominant form of mammal found on the Islands,* considerable populations of other small mammals, such as cotton-tail rabbits, raccoons, grey squirrels, and skunks are found on islands directly connected to the mainland. The lack of small mammals on other islands is quite probably due to their isola­ tion from the coastline rather than due to any lack of food, cover, or suitable environment. A noteworthy feature of the Islands Is the abundance of insects. Wasps, bees, grasshoppers, beetles, butter­ flies, and a wide variety of cater­ pillars which abound in the lush veg­ etation should be of interest to ama­ teur and professional entomologists. In the later summer, an astounding profusion of butterflies — monarchs, swallowtails, cabbage butterflies, and many other varieties — visit the fields of wildflowers. The startling abund­ ance of such insect life is possibly due to the lack of pesticide spraying which is so heavily administered on the mainland. Many forms of seaweed or marine algae cling to the rocks or grow on the ocean floor surrounding the Is­ lands. These underwater fields and forests provide food and shelter for abundant finfish and crustaceans. The Division of Marine Fisheries of the Massachusetts Department of Natural Resources, which has exten­ sively studied the marine resources of Boston Harbor, reports that exist­ ing finfish species are a vital part of

'During the course of the preparation of the Boston Harbor Islands Comprehensive Plan, a survey was undertaken by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to determine the presence and location of rats and other wildlife on the Boston Harbor Islands. A summary of the results of this survey may be found in the Appendix to this re­ port.

19 the Harbor food chain and an import­ ant recreational and commercial resource. The Harbor is one of the few areas along the Massachusetts coastline that offers good sport fishing year round. Winter flounder, mackerel, striped bass, smelt and codfish are species consistently caught in abund­ ance by sport fishermen. Boat access for such fishing is presently limited to approximately 26 public launching ramps and private launching facili­ ties. Additional access points are currently being constructed or planned at Winthrop and Charles­ town. In the longer term, considera­ tions may be given to such places as Commercial Point and Long Island. Sport fishing has an important Harbor. Lobstering is another import­ our commercial and sport fisheries economic impact on the region. In ant commercial activity in the Har­ harvest. 1964, 17,000 fishermen rented skiffs bor, as witnessed by the hundreds of or paid launching ramp fees from buoys marking lobster pots through­ June through September in Quincy out the Harbor from April to October. Cultural History Bay alone. The total expenditure Prices have increased with the sub­ represented by these fishing trips is stantial increase in lobster demand. Boston Harbor and its resources have approximately $170,000. It is esti­ Boaters and divers also participate played a continuously important mated that more than $250,000 is in lobstering for recreational pur­ role in the region's history. Before presently spent annually on sport poses. the coming of the first settlers, a fishing activities within the Harbor There are only approximately 1200 variety of Indian tribes; whose lives area. acres of salt-marsh remaining in the centered around fishing, hunting Soft-shell clams, blue mussels, Harbor. Indiscriminate alteration small animals, and cultivating some crabs, and lobsters are also found in and destruction of these ecologically crops, frequented the Harbor Islands. the Harbor. Most of the soft-shell sensitive areas have a direct impact Piles of clam shells and other signs clam flats on the Islands are classified on their food chain and nursery func­ provide evidence of their campsites by the State Board of Health as con­ tions which are so vital to many forms and activities on a variety of the Is­ taminated, primarily due to sewage of aquatic life. The winter flounder, lands. The Harbor’s protected waters wastes in Harbor waters. Such flats for example, which spawns in the provided refuge to the first explorers. may only be dug by licensed Master salt-marshes along the coastline, Its shores and the banks of its tribu­ Diggers and clams must be processed spends its entire life cycle in the Har­ taries, the Charles, Mystic, and Ne- at the Shellfish Purification Facility bor, and it is estimated that two- ponset Rivers, offered land and na­ at Plum Island, Newburyport, before thirds of the animal population in the tural transportation routes for the they may be sold for human consump­ sea spend an essential portion of founders of the small villages which tion. None of the flats are presently their life cycle in an estuarine en­ became Charlestown, Boston, Water- open to unrestricted digging. There vironment or depend on species that town, Medford, and Cambridge. As are approximately 3,300 acres of clam do. These estuaries and marshlands a consequence of their positions on flats in the Harbor, which are esti­ also contain valuable habitats for the numerous hills and peninsulas mated to have a potential annual migrating wildlife, and provide a projecting into the Harbor, these lo­ yield of 303,000 bushels of legal size back-up flood plain for the harmless cations offered the advantage of clams. It is anticipated that pollu­ dispersal of storm generated waters, easily defensible, water-protected tion abatement procedures will en­ minimizing the destructive force of sites. able greater utilization of the valu­ overflows. These areas are vital to The commercial and economic role able soft-shell clams resources of the the life support of a major part of of the Harbor, as the access point for

20 utilized in four general ways: agri­ culture, recreation, construction of public facilities (prisons, hospitals), and the building of military fortifica­ tions. Agricultural use of the Islands started about 1630 with the arrival of the first colonists. The Islands pro­ vided easy water access, fertile soil, and protection from surprise assault. These first farmers were often tenants to wealthy landowners, pay-

international shipping with the north­ The Harbor has also been the eastern seaboard, has always been of historical center of the commercial major significance to the metropoli­ fishing industry in New England. The tan area. By 1660, almost all impor­ fishermen depend on the rich Con­ tations from England bound for New tinental Shelf and offshore fishing England were handled by Boston banks north and easterly of Cape Cod merchants. Ships were recognized as rather than on the waters of the Har­ the source of the Town’s prosperity bor. This industry has been another well before the construction of Long major contributor to the region’s Wharf in 1710, which served as the economy and its traditions. However, major connecting point between Bos­ recent years have brought declines ton and the rest of the world. In the in the fishing industry as competition middle of the 19th century Boston from other nations and lagging tech­ was a leader among American cities nology have combined to cause rela­ with worldwide trade interests. tively high prices for domestic fish. Donald McKay was building the Today the Islands show a neglect fastest merchant fleet in the world, and lack of concern that is of rela­ the clipper ships, in his East Boston tively recent origin. Only during the shipyard. past 25 years have we failed to make The twentieth century has seen a use of the unique values of these decline in the intense activity of the Islands. In historical times, the Is­ port as other forms of transportation lands were in continuous use, but to­ have assumed much of the previous day, through a tangle of weeds and importance of ships. The port, how­ brush, one can see only the remains ever, remains a major contributor to of a previous era. the economic well-being of the region. Historically, the Islands have been

21 ing to use the land for grazing and the planting of crops. Every island with arable soil was cleared of its natural woodland cover and farmed. Guest houses, inns, and resorts were established on the Islands in the eighteenth century, with the fresh produce from the farms used in the restaurants and hotels. As inex­ pensive boat transportation was available, excursions and day trips on the Harbor were also extremely popular during this period for those seeking a respite from the already congested city. Illegal gambling and boxing matches were also frequent attractions at the inns on a few of the islands. The bulk of public facilities and institutions built on the Islands in the 1880’s included hospitals, schools, reformatories, poor houses, and sew­ age treatment plants. At that time, these institutions, considered in themselves valuable social advance­ ments, were located on the Islands due to their isolated locations. The rendering plant on Spectacle Island was a great public health asset to the City of Boston because it removed a major sanitation problem. The posi­ tioning of the quarantine hospital of March 1776. On the 17th of March, hasty plans were made in Congress, away from the city center was bene­ the British evacuated the city, real­ and on March 20, 1794 an Act was ficial to the entire population, and izing the futility of further resistance. passed to repair and strengthen the the Moon Island Sewage storage Later in the War the French fleet old fortifications for defense against tanks were an engineering feat at­ disembarked some soldiers on the a possible naval attack. A few of the tracting national attention for tem­ Islands and a temporary camp was best heavy guns left over from the porarily solving the Inner Harbor created. Castle William on Castle Revolution were hastily mounted, pollution problem in 1884. Island was repaired and Captain and a few gunners from the U.S. Regi­ The military significance of Boston William Burbeck’s Company was ment of Artillery were briefly sent Harbor dates back to colonial times. enlisted for its garrison. The Company to Boston by Secretary of War Henry A large part of the defense of Boston was commanded by His Excellency Knox, to train militiamen. Fort Inde­ was entrusted to the Islands and the John Hancock from October 1781 to pendence, as the principal work In surrounding hills. During the Revolu­ January I, 1783. Captain Thomas the Harbor, was converted to a mar­ tion, the British carefully fortified Cushing’s Company of Massachu­ ine hospital by order of President Boston Neck, but neglected to occupy setts Militia was raised in 1782 for Adams in 1798. the surrounding hills. They overcame duty at the Castle and on Governor’s Boston, as one of the nation’s ma­ a detachment of colonists on Breed’s Island until December 25, 1787. jor ports, was one of the first to re­ Hill in June, 1775, but failed to at­ Upon formation of the United ceive engineering design of its de­ tain a higher hill nearby. Two thous­ States, fortified sites remained un­ fenses. The present Fort Independ­ and of Washington’s troops occupied used as the tiny United States Army ence was commenced in 1800 by Dorchester Heights, a promontory was concentrated at West Point. Jean Fontin, a French engineer who overlooking the Harbor, on the fourth Under threat of attack by France, had started construction of Fort

22 McHenry at Baltimore. During Jef­ ferson's administration no further work was done, but after the Chesa­ peake incident in June, 1807, Con­ gress directed a new engineering study of the defenseless seaboard. The resulting project by the Army Engineers included additional earth batteries at Fort Independence and on Governor’s Island across the Harbor, both with covered brick mag­ azines, and work started in 1808 on construction. A third phase of construction re­ sulted from deliberate planning and began in 1833 after years of neglect and the threat of possible attacks. Fort Independence was then com­ pletely reconstructed, obliterating much of the earlier work. A major fortress was begun at Fort Warren on George’s Island in 1833, and on Fort Winthrop on Governor's Island in 1844. Work went forward inter­ mittently until the Civil War with long periods of small appropriations and minor repairs between bursts of enthusiastic effort. The brick and granite structures were completed substantially to the project plans by the beginning of the War. In the Civil War about a quarter of a million dollars was spent in strengthening the three forts, and permanent and temporary buildings were built to serve troop needs. Many volunteer regiments were mustered in Fort Warren and it served as one of the principal Union prisons for captured Confederates. Heavy arma­ ment was improved by replacing ob­ solete 32-pound muzzle-loading, smooth-bore cannon, firing red-hot shots, with 15-inch Rodman smooth­ bores and various rifled Parrott guns of greater range and power. During the next twenty years, the most effective harbor defense forti­ fications continued to be the subject of fierce debates and endless experi­ ments. Earth batteries of heavy guns on barbette carriages were favored over the casemated masonry con­

23 struction proven obsolete in the At Long Island, a total of sixty-six to hold it only for future speculation. War. Several batteries of the new acres were acquired and Fort Strong Looking at the Harbor Islands today, type were built at the three old forts was built, named in 1899 for Major it is hard to conceive of the important behind slate-faced breast-height General George C. Strong USV, role they have played in the past. walls. Such a battery was built on killed in the Civil War. A fort at the parapet of Fort Warren overlook­ Lovell’s Island was named in 1900 ing the main ship channel. A number for Myles Standish of Plymouth of these batteries still stand around Colony. Eighty-eight acres of Ped- Present Conditions the Harbor, but their guns were dis­ dock’s Island were designated Fort persed to G.A.R. Posts and communi­ Andrews in 1900 for General George Visual Character of Present ties as Civil War Memorials late in Leonard Andrews. Fort Andrews was Development the nineteenth century. Long Island turned over to the Coast Artillery in Head, south of the Lighthouse, was 1904. In the reorganization of the Boston has an Inner and an Outer acquired by the Government under Army in 1903, the former U. S. Army Harbor. The Inner Harbor, which the Act of March 28, 1867 and em­ Artillery service was divided into lies north and west of a line drawn be­ placements for eleven 15-inch guns mobile Field Artillery and the Coast tween Logan Airport and Castle Is­ were built during the next eight years. Artillery. With highly technical train­ land and includes the mouths of the It is noteworthy that during the ing to operate the complex equip­ Charles and Mystic Rivers, is the port years from 1866 until his retirement in ment, the Coast Artillery Corps gar­ and the urban center of the metro­ 1882, the engineer officer in charge of risoned the Forts for the remainder politan area. The Outer Harbor is all harbor fortification construction of their active existence. divided into the three Bays of Dor­ was Colonel Henry Washington Ben- When World War II broke out, the chester, Quincy, and Hingham.* ham of the Corps of Engineers. heavily fortified Fort Dawes, a 100- The borders of the Bays are formed The Endicott Board of 1885 de­ acre site on Deer Island, was devel­ by the mainland shoreline and vari­ fined the nature of the modern de­ oped. Outer Brewster Island became ous island groupings. The two Har­ fenses of the Harbor, which began in the site of a modern radar-controlled bors combined comprise an area of 1891 with the building of one 8-inch gun, Battery Jewell. Great Brewster approximately 50 square miles, breech-loading rifle on disappearing and Calf Islands became mine sta­ bounded by 180 miles of shoreline carriage and a battery of sixteen 12- tions and observation posts. Nine is­ and dotted with 30 islands, totalling inch mortars. Electrically-fired un­ lands were involved with Harbor de­ approximately 1200 acres. To illus­ derwater explosive mines, optical po­ fense during World War II. The trate the size of the Harbor, the dis­ sition-finding instruments, tele­ entrance to the Harbor was fenced tance from Boston Common to the phones, search-lights and rapid-fir­ off by an underwater torpedo net and Outer Brewsters is the same as that ing, breech-loading batteries to pro­ was heavily mined. There were num­ from the Common to the junction of tect the mine fields were included in erous rapid-fire anti-motor torpedo the Massachusetts Turnpike and the project. Fort Independence was boat batteries on the Islands and Route 128. transferred to the city of Boston in anti-aircraft guns at all the Forts. The The peninsulas of Boston, South 1890 for park purposes, but reacti­ largest radar-controlled guns could Boston, and Charlestown are clus­ vated in the Spanish-American War hit an enemy ship nearly 30 miles tered around the Inner Harbor, and of 1898. The First Massachusetts away. In 1946, the Coast Artillery was all were originally joined to the main­ Heavy Artillery Regiment M.V.M. dissolved and all Harbor Forts de­ land by tidal marshes. These areas garrisoned the Harbor during the activated. have been greatly altered by land fill War, while the 7th Artillery, Regular From 1946 to the present day, the operations. Originally, Castle Island, Army, departed for Cuba. No battery majority of Harbor Islands have been Deer Island, and Nut Island were all of the Endicott Board Project was misused or neglected. The Govern­ independent, separate islands in the completed in the War. Work was ment sold its islands to private citi­ Harbor, but are today connected to rushed on completing the Harbor De­ zens and public agencies in the early the mainland by extensive fill opera- fense Project, but only the mining of fifties. Park facilities construction the ship channels was completed be­ plans were used by the public agen­ fore the return of peace. Work con­ cies as partial justification of such *The U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey charts tinued in building new batteries until, for Boston Harbor indicate a fourth, less de­ purchases, but little has been accom­ fined bay — Hull Bay. For the purposes of this in 1906, the Taft Board Report mod­ plished. Even private owners have Plan, however, only the three major bays will ified the project. neglected their property and appear be indicated.

24 original shoreline configuration to remain relatively untouched. Many of the shoreline industrial facilities were constructed with bla­ tant disregard for the unique values of their special location. The commer­ cial developments on Dorchester Bay and the Inner Harbor block public access to the water, which has meant the loss of irreplaceable scenic re­ sources. Many of the piers and build­ ings on the waterfront are now di­ lapidated and decaying, which adds to pollution at the water’s edge. De­ spite such intensive industrial use along Harbor waters in close proximi­ ty to Boston, a surprising proportion of the Harbor shoreline remains un­ developed. However, these coveted areas are rapidly diminishing, and there are too few present programs to assure wise use or public access in the future. Along with the shoreline, many of the Islands have been used for en­ vironmentally undesirable purposes. Deer Island houses the Suffolk County Prison and the MDC sewage treat­ ment facility. Spectacle Island, for many years a City of Boston dump, continues tosmolderand smoke from unquenchable underground refuse fires. Several Islands show the re­ tions. Noddle, Bird, Governor, Apple, and trade. The cluster of commercial mains of abandoned military sites. and Hog Islands were levelled and fishing boats at the Fish Pier are a re­ These uses often served as temporary covered over to form what is today minder of the past and present role and expedient solutions to major re­ Logan Airport. Land fill operations in that industry has played in the Boston gional problems or were necessary connection with Logan Airport economy. Logan Airport, with its for the protection of the City and in­ alone have reduced the size of Boston low visual profile in sharp contrast dustrial areas during wartime. Today Harbor by over 2,000 acres. to the city skyline, is a dynamic and they are sometimes intrusions on the The distinctly individual character vital symbol of the modern age. Of of each of the Bays in the Harbor is great visual interest, the airport com­ primarily determined by shoreline plex has an obvious and substantial land use. Dorchester Bay and the environmental impact upon adjacent Inner Harbor are dominated by the Harbor areas. Farther out into Dor­ dramatic downtown Boston skyline, chester Bay, the shipping channel, with its high-rise office buildings and President Roads, offers a view to the new apartment towers accentuating open sea and the Harbor Islands. the density and the visual excitement The shores of Quincy and Hingham of the commercial center of the re­ Bays are considerably less developed gion. Major docking areas, in Charles­ for commercial purposes than Dor­ town, South Boston and East Boston chester Bay. The residential, subur­ emphasize the importance of shipping ban communities have allowed the

25 otherwise open environment of the recreational and commercial values through issuance of terminal per­ Islands. of these activities has been lost as a mits and maintenance of spill No description of the visual and result of Harbor pollution. The Outer clean-up apparatus. The funds other sensory characteristics of Bos­ Harbor has future water quality available for such clean-ups are ton Harbor would be complete with­ standards that permit swimming and limited, but the Division does have out mentioning the colors, smells, shellfishing. the power to order the clean-up and sounds that are only associated Significantly, it is reported that with the costs assessed to the of­ with an ocean shore environment. It there have been dramatic improve­ fender. is impossible to adequately describe ments in Harbor water quality during 4. TREATED WASTES AND these sensory perceptions with the past year, due primarily to year- SLUDGE. The MDC’s Deer Island words. The blue, green, and some­ round chlorination of Deer Island and and Nut Island primary treatment times grey ocean has always drawn Nut Island treatment plant effluents, facilities currently discharge di­ man to its shores, sometimes for and surveillance by the State Division gested sludge into the Harbor only food and sometimes to contemplate of Water Pollution Control. on outgoing tides. This will be dis­ his relation to nature and its vastness. The major sources of water pollu­ continued by 1976. Secondary While on the shore, he is presented tion in Boston Harbor are summa­ treatment is also planned in the with a succession of simultaneous rized as: future at both MDC facilities. stimuli that often surpass the inten­ 1. COMBINED SEWER OVER­ 5. RAW WASTE RELEASE. The sity and quality of other natural en­ FLOWS. This pollution source Moon Island sewage holding tanks, vironments. The sights, smells, will be the most difficult and costly soon to be discontinued, and the sounds and tactile experiences of to correct. The cities surrounding Town of Hull presently discharge the shore can cause a feeling of re­ the Harbor have old sewer systems raw waste, although the Town has moteness that can only be classified which combine both sanitary sew­ present plans to construct a sewage as aesthetic. Change is a paramount age and storm runoff. Solutions to treatment plant and has applied feature of the shore. The currents of this problem include: complete for federal funds to do so. the ocean, the wind, storms, and the separation of sanitary and storm 6. TRIBUTARY STREAMS. Major twice daily fluctuations of tide all systems: detention tanks; deten­ polluted streams which flow into contribute to the constant variations tion tanks with chlorination; and the Harbor include the Mystic, of shape, color, form, sound, smell, holding tunnels constructed deep Charles, and Neponset. Pollution and feel that are typical of this unique underground with or without later control along these streams would environment. treatment of storm flow at the Deer improve the quality of fresh water Island plant. flow to the Harbor. Water Quality 2. DEBRIS AND REFUSE. Debris 7. WASTE FROM SHIPS AND comes from deteriorating piers, PLEASURE BOATS. Federal and A uniformly high level of water pollu­ wharves, and sunken barges. The state regulations are being formu­ tion is found in the Harbor area di­ Massachusetts Department of lated and updated to control this rectly adjacent to the industrial and Public Works has a program of pollution source. shipping centers of Boston. This area pier removal. Refuse results from 8. STORM WATER RUNOFF. is called the Inner Harbor and is dumping along the shore and from Urban runoff from parking lots and classified “SC,” i.e. suitable for rec­ ships, and spills from off-shore highways increasingly affects reational boating, fishing and indus­ refuse barge burning operations. water quality. Large paved areas trial process uses. Since there is no The Army Corps of Engineers has with attendant rapid runoff con­ bacterial limit on class “SC” waters, conducted a study of the debris tribute to flooding. they are unsuitable for swimming or problem and recommends a pro­ The New England River Basins shellfishing. The Outer Harbor is gram of debris removal for the Commission, in cooperation with classified “SB,” i.e. suitable for water Harbor water surface. several state and federal agencies* contact sports as well as boating and 3. OIL. Oil spills are difficult to shellfishing with depuration. These control since the source may orgi- *The Boston Harbor Water Quality Manage­ standards are generally being met. nate far inland on a combined ment Coordinating Group consists of the City In years past the majority of the sewer line. The Massachusetts De­ of Boston, Environmental Protection Agency, Outer Harbor has been classified as partment of Natural Resources, Massachusetts Division of Water Pollution Control, Metropolitan Area Planning Council, unsuitable for swimming, and clam­ through the Division of Water Pol­ Metropolitan District Commission, and the ming has been severely limited. The lution Control, controls oil spills New England River Basins Commission.

26 is preparing a Boston Harbor Water While limited steps are being taken Quality Plan. This plan, to be com­ to abate the traditional pollution pleted in 1973, will include: problem, and some results are begin­ ning to appear, many other sources 1. A program for water quality of pollution are only now being iden­ control and enhancement through tified. the year 2020, including waste The Massachusetts Division of water collection and treatment Marine Fisheries, the Bureau of Sport facilities, and control and/or dis­ Fisheries, the New England posal of storm water overflows. Aquarium, Massachusetts Division of 2. Analysis and recommendations Water Pollution Control, Massachu­ of governmental authorities and setts Department of Public Health, structures of laws for achieving etc. are conducting research into the rently present no special problems the plan. presence and effect of pollutants, for the design of recreational uses in 3. Recommendations on financial including pesticides, and heavy the Harbor, even though the pall of arrangements and apportionment metals on marine life. Samples of fin- smog is clearly evident from the of costs for development, construc­ fish and shellfish have been found to Harbor. tion, and operation of the proposed contain DDE, DDT and heptachlor Noise does present some considera­ water quality management sys­ insecticide residues. As yet, it is not tions for Harbor use and develop­ tems, including federal, state, re­ known what effects these residues ment. Logan Airport in its efforts to gional, local and private shares. may have on the ability of marine minimize the effects on residential Following review and approval of life to reproduce or its quality as areas of noise from jet landings and this water quality management plan food for human consumption. take-offs, attempts to schedule many by the Coordinating Group it will be Gulls have been found to be carry­ of its operations over the Harbor. submitted to the Congress through ing salmonella (pathogenic) and Any improvement in the general the President of the United States Escherichia coli (non-pathogenic, environmental quality of Boston and to the Governor and Legislature fecal) bacteria in their droppings. Harbor is consistent with the recre­ of the Commonwealth of Massa­ These organisms may haveoriginated ational uses and conservation of the chusetts. from sewage sources in the Harbor. Islands. Indeed many of the recre­ Contaminated shellfish areas are ation and conservation programs are The Coordinating Group has also closed to shellfishing; others are directly dependent upon waterquality agreed on schedules for controlling open to shellfishing with depuration. improvements. Salt-marsh and ma­ specific waste sources, including The Boston Harbor Pollution Com­ rine life preservation, clamming, federal installations, and further mittee, composed of more than 25 fishing, and swimming are all impos­ agreed that a consulting engineering representatives of public and private sible without adequately clean water. firm be engaged by the Common­ agencies, was formed approximately Although substantial pollution abate­ wealth of Massachusetts to perform eight years ago under the sponsor­ ment gains are being made by a the following evaluations: ship of the Massachusetts Port Au­ variety of federal, state and local • Evaluate the tidal and current thority. The committee has worked agencies, final solutions to the more patterns and dispersion char­ to identify sources of solid and liquid difficult problems of pollution from acteristics of Boston Harbor, pollution on the Harbor and to en­ combined sewer overflows and storm particularly as they affect the force applicable laws and ordinances water are being delayed because of requirements for waste treat­ for abatement of the pollution both the extremely high expenditures ment plants. This work is cur­ in the Harbor and along the shore­ necessary to do the job. rently being accomplished by line. the consultant.• Other forms of pollution occur in the Harbor with approximately the Analysis of Recreation • Determine the most practical same frequency as the rest of the re­ Demand and Standards and economical solution to the gion. Air pollution is currently being overall Boston Harbor problem attacked by the primary and second­ Demand with emphasis on controlling ary standards established by the the tributary streams and sewer National Clean Air Act and state and It is clear from all studies which are overflows. local controls. Air pollutants cur­ presently available that potential

27 recreation demand (the level of recre­ camping equipment design and the like to participate more often, and ational participation if opportunities introduction of trail bikes, motor the major reasons they do not are became available) would far surpass bikes, snowmobiles, and various lack of time, high costs and inade­ the total capability of the Harbor Is­ terrain vehicles have also vastly ex­ quate facilities. lands to provide such facilities. panded recreational possibilities, Expanded boating facilities for Conservative projections of water and have been accompanied by con­ residents and visiting yachtsmen are recreation demand for 1990 in the siderable debate over the noise, dan­ an important need in Boston Harbor. Metropolitan Boston area indicate ger, and environmental effects of this Equally important are means of pro­ that on a peak summer holiday there kind of activity. viding low-cost boating facilities and might be 300,000 swimmers, 15,000 related services for those with limited pleasure boaters, 10,000 campers, Recreational Activity Preferences budgets. and 40,000 other enthusiasts requir­ for the Harbor Islands ing outdoor facilities. Although this Camping is far in excess of what the Harbor The survey indicated that, by far, the Indications are that camping has be­ Islands alone could accommodate, favorite outdoor summertime recre­ come much more popular in recent the Islands are still uniquely suited ational activity of metropolitan resi­ years than is demonstrated in the to meet an important proportion of dents is swimming. No single cate­ 1965 survey, but even at the time of the ever-increasing demand. gory appropriate to Boston Harbor the interviews, almost one-fourth of use approaches the strength and uni­ the metropolitan population owned This section highlights the more versality of this love of ocean, pond, or expected to buy camping equip­ significant outdoor recreation ac­ and pool. Swimming facilities are ment. The participation of residents tivity preferences of core city and the number one recreational need in in camping activity was found to be metropolitan area residents. The Eastern Massachusetts. It is an at­ almost identical to boating. Three- essential source of data was an ex­ tractive sport for all income, age, and quarters of all participants go camp­ tensive telephone interview survey family groups, and is participated in ing frequently and the major reasons conducted as part of the Metropolitan by at least three-quarters of the pop­ why these individuals do not go Area Planning Council’s Open Space ulation. More than half participate camping more often are lack of time and Recreation Plan and Program. once or more per week, and over and high costs. Approximately 5,000 metropolitan twenty percent indicated that they Camping facilities on the Harbor households were questioned in depth would swim even more frequently Islands would attract a significant as to their leisure time activities, if they had more free time, if facili­ proportion of residents and visi­ preferences and needs. The survey tors. Many people would probably ties were improved, and if they did prefer to rent the necessary equip­ was designed to cover a representa­ not have to travel so far to swim. The ment on the Islands to bringing it tive number of families in each city five existing major beaches in or near and town in the metropolitan area. with them. Also, because for many Boston Harbor only attracted about persons the initial cost of camping The interviews were conducted in the twenty percent of the metropolitan equipment appears to be a burden, late fall of 1965, and although the population, primarily because they rentals at low daily rates would be information obtained is dated, it rep­ were considered poorly maintained very popular. resents the most extensive leisure and overcrowded. The survey, then, time survey available. These data are indicates an immediate need for more as relevant today as they were in the Fishing and better facilities within the metro­ mid-sixties and the need, undoubted­ The survey indicates that more than politan area. ly, is even more urgent. half of all metropolitan residents own a fishing rod, and almost that The primary changes in recrea­ Boating number regularly participate in fish­ tional habits that have occurred Although listed as a favorite outdoor ing activities, and would do so with since 1965 are the increased use and summertime activity by representa­ even more frequency if they had the improved design of equipment, per­ tive portions of all income classes, time. Fishing is obviously a centrally mitting greater participation in many boating tends to be favored by middle important recreational activity for recreational activities, and the cre­ and high income persons in the sur­ all income, family, and age groups, ation of wholly new, equipment- vey. One-fifth of the sample popula­ and combined with the related activ­ dependent activities. These trends tion indicated that they owned or ities of boating and camping, repre­ have served to extend the recrea­ expected to buy a boat. Nearly ten sents a vast proportion of the popu­ tional seasons. Improvements In percent of the respondents would lation that would quite probably

28 make use of the Harbor Island facili­ Standards Boat Access Ramp ties for fishing almost immediately. Serve 75 boats peak 4-5 acres. The capability of the Boston Harbor Parking for 75 cars with trailers. Nature Walks, Hikes Islands to fulfill portions of the unmet In the metropolitan area, slightly Support Facilities demand for recreation areas can be more than one-quarter of the popu­ Toilet — 50 people per fixture. determined by analysis of a combina­ lation participates in this activity. Water — 15 gallons per person; tion of physical, man-made, and na­ for camping within 200' of camp The major impediments to the expan­ tural factors. Recreation standards, sion of this healthy form of exercise sites. developed by the Bureau of Outdoor are the lack of time and the general Trash Containers — 1 for every Recreation, the American Society of 4 picnic tables. lack of a natural, outdoors environ­ Planning Officials, and many State ment in and around the city. There Park Departments, are a helpful first While these standards provide are few places that could satisfy this step on which to begin an assessment general minimums, they are modi­ need better than the Harbor Islands. of potential land use. These stand­ fied by the designer as he considers ards have been developed from ex­ specific characteristics of each site Picnicking periences with various designs and such as topography, natural areas, This activity ranked high on the list landscape, and alternative means of of favorite recreational pastimes of indicate the approximate amount combining facilities. city residents, but was not as popular of recreation that may be tolerated for the area-wide population. It was without damaging a site. For ex­ found that 66 percent of metropoli­ ample, it has been determined that tan residents enjoy picnicking/ Ex­ overcrowding of a picnic area will panded and new facilities will en­ occur when there are more than 16 courage more people to enjoy pic­ tables per acre. nicking, particularly core city resi­ The following list indicates recre­ dents. The provision for such facili­ ation standards for a variety of ac­ ties on the Harbor Islands would tivities that are relevant to the complement and add to the enjoy­ Harbor Islands. ment of other activities. Beach Area Excursions 50 square feet per person mini­ More than half of Metropolitan Bos­ mum (no boats within 500 feet ton residents pleasure drive frequent­ of beach). ly. The attraction of this activity is in Picnicking observing the scenery and enjoying 10-16 tables per acre 100 feet natural surroundings. Thus, if good buffer between other uses. ferry access is made available, a sub­ stantial proportion of the population Campsites would be attracted to the Islands. Family Unit — 4-5 units per acre. The finding that pleasure driving is a Group Unit — 50 people — 5 stronger preference with Bostonians acres. than in the surrounding towns sug­ Boat Service gests that an exciting destination Complete Facility — Docks and nearby, such as the Harbor Islands, gasoline — minimum of 250 would attract large numbers of core­ slips for financial success. city residents seeking a one-day ex­ Walking Trails cursion. Linear Loops — at least 11/2 miles or 50 acres. 20-minute walk. 'The results of the Boston Area Survey, 1970, Bicycle Trails which was conducted with the cooperation of Lineal Loops — at least 3 miles the Department of Natural Resources by the or 150 acres. Survey Research Program of the Joint Center for Urban Studies of MIT and Harvard, support Sailing Instruction this finding. 160 acres of protected water.

29

PART TWO DESIGN POLICIES

Introduction General Policies

The plan proposals for the Boston Harbor Islands have taken recreation IN ORDER TO PRESERVE AND EN­ and conservation uses, as determined HANCE their unique character, the by the State Legislature in the Harbor Islands should be recognized as not Islands Bill, as their major goals. To just another piece of property to be accomplish those goals the MAPC, in developed along conventional guide­ conjunction with the Harbor Islands’ lines for open space and recreation. Project Advisory Committee and the The special historic and natural qual­ Department of Natural Resources, ities of the Islands provide rare op­ has developed the following design portunities for aesthetic, recreational policies. These policies encompass a and educational experiences for the wide variety of subject areas, includ­ people who visit them. ing: general design considerations, LIMIT FUTURE USES of the Islands design policies primarily concerned and the shoreline to such facilities as with the special ecology of the Is­ derive an immediate benefit from, lands, policies concerned with the or make a direct contribution to their types of recreational facilities and waterfront location. uses of the completed park system, and the development of the trans­ RECOGNIZE in the plans, the unique portation system to serve the Islands. characteristics of each Island. The policies described in this section USE MATERIALS indigenous to the served as guidelines during the prep­ Islands in the design of facilities aration of the Island plan proposals. whenever possible. MINIMIZE THE CONFLICTS among LOCATE FACILITIES on the Islands different users of the park system by in such a manner as to minimize the separating potentially conflicting destruction of natural or historic re­ land uses and providing natural land­ sources. scape barriers or “buffers” between areas. PROVIDE A VARIETY OF USES on the Islands that is interrelated and Policies for Preservation of contributes to an ordered, easy-to- understand park system. Island Ecology PROVIDE SUFFICIENT UTILITIES on each Island, in keeping with ap­ PROVIDE FOR THE PLANNED propriate design standards, so as to MANAGEMENT of the natural re­ minimize the potential environmental sources of the Islands to preventtheir impacts (water, sewage disposal, exploitation, destruction, or neglect. electricity and solid waste disposal). CONCENTRATE INTENSIVE USES LOCATE FACILITIES requiring sani­ in areas that can support large num­ tary drainage in areas with adequate bers of visitors; conserve more fragile soil drainage. ecosystems. LOCATE ACTIVITIES on the Islands CONTROL EROSION by planting so as to take advantage of the posi­ where possible and by construction tive aspects of weather (i.e. sun and or reconstruction of seawalls in cer­ sea breeze) and provide protection tain areas where the land resource is against its adverse effects (i.e. sufficiently important and the tidal storms, extremes of exposure). flow patterns permit.

31 DEVELOP THE PARK system slowly PROVIDE FOR THE PLANNED IM­ MAKE EVERY EFFORT TO MINI­ and with understanding for the pos­ PROVEMENT and management of MIZE AUTOMOBILE ACCESS to sible effects on these relatively unique the historic resources of the Islands Long Island and Deer Island. Con­ and delicately balanced Island eco­ to achieve their maximum enjoyment sider the Islands with existing vehic­ systems. as passive recreational and educa­ ular access as points of embarkation CHOOSE NEW PLANT MATERIALS tional facilities. for ferry patrons arriving by bus only. for the Islands with careful considera­ PROVIDE FACILITIES FOR FISHER­ tion for the anticipated use of each MEN (including fishing piers, fish Island; for the ability of the plant to cleaning facilities, boat launching withstand seashore conditions; and sites, and equipment rentals) wher­ for its attractiveness to wildlife. ever practical. EMPHASIZE THE NATURAL LAND- LOCATE FACILITIES FOR PRIVATE FORMS by planting. Summits of RECREATIONAL BOATING through­ drumlins should be relatively free of out the Islands Park System and re­ trees to permit vistas. late them to the amount of use that MINIMIZE THE CHANGING OF each Island can support. LANDFORMS (grading) by locating PROVIDE APPROPRIATELY LO­ facilities in areas that are topograph­ CATED AND DESIGNED FACILI­ ically suited. Example: Locate play- TIES for swimmers, picnickers, fields on flat areas and campsites in campers, and other persons seeking rolling or hilly areas. a variety of forms of passive and ac­ tive recreation. PROTECT SALT-MARSH along the coast and marsh areas on the Islands EMPHASIZE THE BOSTON HAR­ because of their value as estuary BOR ISLANDS as a recreation area nurseries for marine and other wild­ for the dense core communities of life. Boston, Brookline, Cambridge, Chel­ PROTECT RARE OR UNUSUAL sea, Everett, and Somerville, which forms of animal and plant life as they have limited open spaces for recrea­ contribute greatly to the special char­ tional activities. acter of the Harbor Islands.

Recreation Policies Transportation Policies PROVIDE RECREATION FACILI­ TIES, both passive and active, that are compatible with the unique char­ PROVIDE FREQUENT INEXPEN­ acteristics of the Islands. SIVE ACCESS to the Islands and to LOCATE RECREATIONAL ACTIVI­ the recreation facilities for as large TIES so as to take advantage of and a portion of the residents of the met­ to protect the natural characteristics ropolitan area as is possible and con­ of each Island, (e.g. designated swim­ sistent with the ecology of the Is­ ming areas should be located on the lands. best beaches, playfields on existing EMPHASIZE PUBLIC WATER­ level areas, etc.) BORNE TRANSPORTATION to the PROVIDE A WIDE RANGE OF REC­ Islands in order to minimize traffic REATION FACILITIES that reflect, impacts on local neighborhoods and but do not necessarily fulfill, the de­ eliminate need for unnecessary and mand for such facilities in the Boston expensive road and bridge improve­ Metropolitan Area. ments.

32 Alternative One

IHBIH Intensive Activity Area

IHIIII Moderate Activity Area

C L ] Conservation Management Area

Alternative Two

-titilli Intensive Activity Area

Moderate Activity Area

Conservation Management Area

Alternative Three titititi Intensive Activity Area lllllll Moderate Activity Area

F 1 Conservation Management Area PART THREE ANALYSIS AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM FOR THE BOSTON HARBOR ISLANDS PARK SYSTEM

Alternative Evaluation ing the design policy criteria and ful­ filling the goals of the Harbor Islands The plan for the Boston Harbor Is­ Park System. Early in the planning lands Park System is the result of a process, three alternative design ap­ careful and imaginative application proaches were formulated and evalu­ of the design policies to a detailed ated. These alternatives were: inventory and analysis of each Is­ land. Extensive site surveys were Alternative One conducted. The site surveys, sum­ marized on two maps, schematically The major determinant in the design represent a compilation of all ob­ of each Island in this alternative is served “natural” and “man-made” its size and location. Islands that are factors. The maps accurately depict relatively large and close to the main­ the existing Island landscape and en­ land shorelines would be primarily vironmental condition. Island his­ developed for intensive uses, includ­ tories were developed from a variety ing active recreation. This alternative of often conflicting sources and rep­ has the benefit of providing large resent an attempt to compile an ac­ recreation sites relatively close to the curate history of man’s activities on concentrations of population on the each Island. mainland. Its major liability is that The site surveys were further an­ certain areas on the large Islands are alyzed, and additional sources were considered important natural re­ consulted to determine such char­ sources that could not support inten­ acteristics as quality and area of sive recreational activities without beaches, topography, quality of veg­ ecological damage. This alternative etation, surficial geology, and other also eliminates an important oppor­ qualitative and quantitative features. tunity to contrast the dense activity These characteristics are directly of the shoreline with the special na­ related to many of the design policies tural environment of the Islands and stated in the previous section. For Harbor. example, analyses of beaches and currents helped to determine swim­ Alternative Two ming areas, while the topography was an important factor of facility This alternative dramatically con­ location (e.g. playfields in flat topog­ trasts the density and activity of the raphy, camping/picnicking areas in urban core with the broad and pas­ rolling topography and cleared areas sive expanse of Harbor waters and for vistas and picnicking on the Islands by retaining large natural highest topography). The surficial preserves close to the mainland geology was the major determinant shorelines. Active recreation activi­ for locating facilities that require ties would be provided on selected leaching fields for sanitary sewers." areas of large Islands, but primarily Once the natural and man-made on smaller, more distant Islands. The resources of each Island were inven­ development of intensive recreational toried and analyzed, it was possible facilities on small distant Islands to explore alternative ways of meet-* would emphasize the contrast be­ tween development on the Islands *NOTE: This study did not include detailed and the natural setting of the ocean. engineering studies of subsurface drainage This alternative has the attractive characteristics but all facilities requiring drain­ feature of providing strong, dramatic age were placed in areas where surficial geology contrasts between the urban main­ would indicate good drainage. Final location analysis of these facilities should include de­ land and the natural environment of tailed engineering studies of soil drainage. large Islands, and between the inten-

35 sive use of the small Islands and the natural setting of the Harbor. Its ma­ jor liabilities are the potential of over­ utilizing the limited number of small Islands, and, in some cases, the finan­ cial costs of developing and servicing several small isolated Islands would be prohibitive.

Alternative Three

The third alternative is a synthesis of the first two concepts, attempting to maximize the benefits and mini­ mize the liabilities and costs associ­ ated with the two other alternatives. This alternative uses the unique Transportation and Access would provide access from the main­ characteristics of each Island and land to the three major bays in the each site as the major determinant Ferry Service Harbor. The second route would be a of both the kind and intensity of use loop serving the Inner Harbor (Bos­ to be provided. The size and specific The development and successful ton Waterfront) and the Islands and location of each Island still plays an utilization of the Harbor Islands Park shoreline of Dorchester Bay (Deer, important role in the plans. For ex­ System depends heavily upon a ferry Long, Spectacle, and Thompson Is­ ample, Long Island has several areas system that provides frequent, inex­ lands and South Boston). Both of that are designated to be intensively pensive access to the Islands.* A these routes would be serviced by developed for recreation, but its size considerable effort was expended to conventional boats with a capacity also permits extensive areas to be set research and evaluate many trans­ of approximately 300 passengers and aside for wildlife habitat, and the pas­ portation alternatives. Considera­ an average cruising speed of ten sive contemplation of nature. In this tions of costs, frequency of service, knots.* Round trip fares for these manner the contrasts between the administration, safety, aesthetics, two levels are estimated at $1.50. urban core and the natural areas are environmental impacts, and coordi­ Existing round-trip fares for ferry preserved throughout the Park Sys­ nation with Island development were passenger service on Boston Harbor tem. At the same time, intensive ac­ weighed in the evaluation of alterna­ fall within the range of $2.75 to tivities and recreational facilities tives. It was determined that a pub­ $3.75. Even the proposed $1.50 are located to minimize their impact licly-regulated but privately-operated round-trip fare must be considered on any one Island. Placement of these ferry service using conventional excessive for the low and many mod­ facilities is strongly related to the fi­ craft would best fulfill the goals and erate income families living in the nancial considerations of providing policies established for Island access. metropolitan area. A large potential relatively easy access and utilities. During the initial phases of the op­ to provide service to these families Following an extensive evaluation eration of the Islands Park System, at nominal rates or for free does ex­ of the alternatives, it was determined an operating subsidy may be neces­ ist. The high level of service de­ that Alternative Three represented sary for the ferry service. signed into the system provides a the best means of fulfilling the stated The ferry system would consist of large surplus capacity in off-peak goals, objectives and policies of the four interconnected and comple­ periods. Special off-peak trips could Harbor Islands Park System. It was mentary routes. The first would be a felt that this alternative provides the main line run from the Boston Water­ highest degree of dramatic contrast, front to Nantasket with stops at Long, *lt was felt that the high cost, low passenger flexibility, and economic feasibility George’s and Peddock’s Islands, and capacity, and high maintenance requirements consistent with the fragile Island en­ of such sophisticated vessels as hydrofoils and air-cushion vessels would significantly limit vironments and the policies set forth *A complete economic analysis of the pro­ their application for use In the Harbor Islands by the Comprehensive Plan. posed ferry system is included in the Appendix. Park.

36 route, which is viewed as a future conducting a waterfront study in East addition to and refinement of the Boston. Among other activities, this transportation system is a group of study includes City plans to acquire three small boat, “ neighborhood,” a large waterfront site for a major loops. As the Harbor Islands Park is recreation area. The Department of developed, the adequacy and effect­ Natural Resources (Public Access iveness of the transportation service Board) and the Boston Redevelop­ should be periodically reviewed. The ment Authority’s urban renewal proj­ possibility of adding routes as a ect for Charlestown have initiated means of improving service should projects that will improve the Little be evaluated with the knowledge of Mystic Channel. A new public boat actual operating experience. This ramp and parking lot is recommended study has identified three such neigh­ in the Little Mystic Channel as a borhood loops that have considerable means of improving public access to merit both individually and within the Boston Harbor Islands from the the context of the transportation Inner Harbor. If the Charlestown system as a whole. Navy Yard is phased out and devel­ The Hingham Bay Loop would be oped as a national park including the centered around a recommended new U.S.S. Constitution, it may be desir­ mainland terminal on the Weymouth able to link this facility with the rest Back River at the former Naval Am­ of Boston’s historic waterfront. All munition Depot in Hingham. Portions of these future developments have of this site will be publicly acquired logical relationships to the Boston and developed for conservation and Harbor Islands Park. A neighborhood recreation purposes and form a loop serving these areas and connect­ logical relation to the Harbor Islands ing to the Central Harbor Islands Park. The proposed route would serve Terminal could provide alternative Grape, Bumpkin, and Peddock’s Is­ routes for going to the Islands. How­ lands. ever, at the present time all these lo­ A Dorchester Bay Loop would serve cations with the exception of the Thompson, Spectacle and Long Is­ Navy Yard lack good auto access and lands from mainland terminals at parking facilities. With the exception Kelley’s Landing (South Boston), of East Boston, transit access is gen­ Columbia Point (U. Mass.) and Com­ erally poor and the residential popu­ be sponsored by community service, mercial Point (Dorchester). The lation within easy walking distance charitable and religious organiza­ mainland stops on this route are with­ is not substantial. East Boston has ex­ tions and accommodated on regu­ in walking distance of residential cellent access to the Central Terminal larly scheduled ferry runs and in­ neighborhoods and have existing via the MBTA Blue Line. This neigh­ volve no major additional operating transit service to Kelley's Landing and borhood loop has many factors to costs. proposed service to Columbia Point— recommend it, especially as future The third route consists of small U. Mass. The Columbia Point termi­ development occurs on the water­ boat (approximately 50 passengers) nal may also offer limited parking front, but it is not seen as a major de­ loops to serve small Islands from the during weekends when classes are terminant of the success of the ferry Boston to Nantasket main line route. not being held at the University. service to the Harbor Islands. The One such loop would run from A third neighborhood loop consists potential of this loop should await George’s Island to Lovell’s and Gal­ of mainland terminals in the Inner definitive study once the principal lop’s Islands. A second would serve Harbor. This route would link the cen­ recommended routes to service the the Brewsters and Calf Island from tral terminal with new facilities at Islands have been established. George's Island, and a third would East Boston, the Chelsea Yacht Club, originate on Peddock’s Island and the Little Mystic Channel and the have stops at Grape and Bumpkin Is­ Charlestown Navy Yard. The Boston Boston Waterfront — Central lands. Round-trip fares for the third Redevelopment Authority, in conjunc­ Terminal level are estimated at $1.00. A fourth tion with neighborhood groups, is The proximity of downtown Boston’s

37 waterfront to the focal point of the regional highway and transit system is the major determinant in selecting the most desirable location for the Central Ferry Terminal. The Aquarium stop on the MBTA Blue Line is located at the intersection of Atlantic Avenue and State Street, immediately adja­ cent to Long Wharf. This area is also within easy walking distance of Government Center (Green Line), Washington Street (Red Line), and State Street (Orange Line) stations. Also, the Boston Central Business District is the focus of the region’s expressway system. Existing ramps to and from the Central Artery are very close to the waterfront. The re­ gion’s greatest concentration of off- street parking is in and around the commercial, financial and govern­ ment districts of downtown Boston. The peak demand for the Harbor Is­ lands will occur during summer week­ ends when usage of these parking facilities will be at minimum levels. It can be assumed that a reasonably large supply, approximately 500 spaces, of off-street parking will be available. This estimate is based upon existing parking supply. Most other conceivable shoreline locations would require the construction of ex­ pensive new parking facilities. Long Wharf is a short walk from Boston’s commercial and employ­ ment centers. These areas generate the highest density of pedestrians in the metropolitan area. It is also within “reasonable” walking distance from portions of the Beacon Hill and North End residential neighborhoods. Re­ development of land adjacent to Long jacent to the Waterfront Park being passenger loads. The terminal should Wharf in the BRA’s Waterfront Ur­ developed by the BRA in conjunction leave a considerable open space on ban Renewal Project will add a sub­ with the urban renewal project. The the wharf which may be utilized as stantial number of persons who will terminal building would consist of an outdoor passenger holding area, live and shop within easy walking a Harbor Islands Park Information a public viewing area and possibly an distance. Center, with ferry schedules, maps, outdoor restaurant. It is recommend­ All of these factors indicate Long and photos of the Islands, ticketing ed that placement of the terminal Wharf as the one ideal location for facilities, a small restaurant, and an should not block the view to the Har­ the Boston Waterfront Central Ferry indoor passenger holding area. A bor from State Street. Sufficient dock Terminal. Such a terminal could be minimum of 12,000 square feet should space (approximately 520 lineal feet) accommodated on the wharf or ad­ be sufficient to handle projected peak should be provided for simultaneous

38 loading of four ferries. Overnight Waterfront Urban Renewal Project. will be a resultant additional incre­ docking of vessels would occur at The historic Freedom Trail will also ment of low cost transportation serv­ Long Wharf, Nantasket and perhaps benefit from a connection to Boston ice. At the same time, it is recognized Deer and Long Islands. Additional Harbor, the waterfront and its his­ that limitations on the amount of storage and maintenance dock space toric resources. Indeed, the Harbor auto access will be absolutely neces­ should be provided elsewhere. Islands Park is a logical extension sary if these harmful effects are to be of the principles and physical form of avoided. Boston’s open space heritage. A cen­ The relatively long circuitous “Prologue 75 ” tury ago, Frederick Law Olmsted routes to both Islands would dis­ The Boston Redevelopment Author­ planned a park system which has well courage large numbers of motorists ity’s Waterfront Urban Renewal Proj­ served the recreation needs of several particularly from the western, north­ ect will be further connected to other generations. As a part of the celebra­ western and northern suburbs. In historic and cultural centers in the tion of the upcoming Bicentennial, addition to this limitation, other con­ City by plans and projects which are the City seeks to restore and extend trols should be maintained to ensure being prepared in conjunction with the Olmsted Park System. that auto access does remain within “Prologue 75’’. This program includes reasonable bounds. First, site plan­ many City-wide projects that are in­ Deer and Long Islands — Access ning should include only enough tended to improve the condition of, Island parking as is commensurate and linkages between, many of the Early in the study it was determined with the land availability, individual City’s historic landmarks. These that access to the Islands must em­ Island conditions, street access ca­ landmarks will receive national at­ phasize water-borne transportation pacity through Winthrop and Squan- tention during the Bicentennial and not the construction of roads and tum, and within the general range of celebration of the beginning of the bridges. The size and sensitivity of existing parking and traffic volumes. Revolutionary War, the Declaration the Islands to environmental impacts This parking should be provided in of Independence, and the birth of are obvious constraints on the kind small lots which are directly and the United States of America. In­ of development they can support. positively related to the various land cluded in these plans is the City’s Both Deer Island and Long Island uses. This will aid in controlling the “Walk to the Sea” which will form a have existing motor-vehicle access. use of areas and ensure that neither pedestrian connection from the Bos­ The desirability and implications of Island is considered a point of em­ ton Common and Public Garden, maintaining this access were im­ barkation for ferry patrons arriving through Government Center, past portant questions. It was decided by automobile. Second, auto access historic Faneuil Hall and other his­ that to the extent that auto and bus should betightlycontrolledand regu­ toric sites, down State Street, to ter­ access can be provided without harm­ lated, perhaps by a pass system, at minate at Long Wharf and the new ful environmental side effects, there the entrances to these Islands ensur­

39 ing that only as many autos as can limit physical access to the Harbor. and private boaters. The Registry of be accommodated in the planned Inappropriate land uses contribute Motor Vehicles has estimated that parking areas are allowed on the Is­ to the visual inaccessibility by cre­ there are approximately 40,000 boats lands. Four to five hundred parking ating barriers and structures that registered in the metropolitan area. spaces on Long Island and one to two block the public view to the Harbor. Pleasure boating and fishing will be hundred on Deer Island can be ac­ Excellent views do exist along sev­ the two most important recreational commodated without harmful side eral portions of the shoreline. Castle uses of the nearly fifty square miles effects. This level of parking for rec­ Island, Pleasure Bay, and Day Boule­ of water surface in Boston Harbor. reational purposes is roughly com­ vard provide important viewing areas The access facilities along the shore parable to existing traffic flows to for South Boston. Parts of Dorchester and the marinas and boat docks on the Islands in question. Bay with South Boston and the down­ the Islands will be focal points for It is recommended that the poten­ town skyline are visible from Squan­ these users. The plans for the Islands tial of developing a parking area at tum Street and Dorchester Street in provide docking space for 365 boats the Old Squantum Naval Air Station the Squantum section of Quincy. and mooring space for an additional with connecting mini-bus service to Views of Quincy Bay from Morrissey 600. The placement and number of Squaw Rock, Moon Island and Long Boulevard are important visual as­ docking spaces is designed to mini­ Island be explored as demand for pects of this waterfront area. The mize the possibility of over-using such service warrants. Such a service causeway to Moon Island and the any of the Islands. At the peak periods would meet excess demand at these bridge to Long Island are good linear of Island use, it may be necessary to locations during peak periods and viewing routes for vistas of Dor­ further regulate private boat docking minimize automobile passage chester and Quincy Bays. Long Is­ with time limitations and landing through the residential neighborhood land, Nut Island, Moon Island, Deer fees. of Squantum. Island, and Pemberton Point are all In addition to water-borne access excellent locations for viewing the these two Islands have the potential Harbor. Route 3 through Hingham of good public access by bus. Bus provides good vistas of Hingham Shoreline routes and stops are indicated on the Harbor. plans and should be related to exist­ In addition to these shoreline areas The shoreline of Boston Harbor was ing transit service. The use of these several of the higher hills around the not the prime focus during the pro­ Islands as points of embarkation for Harbor are Important viewing points. gress of this planning effort. How­ ferry patrons arriving by bus should These include Dorchester Heights, ever, the previous discussion of be encouraged as this type of service Telegraph Hill, Meeting House Hill, transportation, physical access, and would have no adverse side effects. and Savin Hill in South Boston; Wey­ visual access has served to highlight In addition, facilities which include mouth Great Hill; World's End in some of the existing problems. parking for charter buses are consist­ Hingham; and Nantasket Hill in Hull. Volume Two of the Metropolitan ent with the proper utilization of Aside from these limited vantage Area Planning Council’s Open Space these large Islands. points, views of the Harbor are gen­ Plan and Program for Metropolitan erally obscured by haphazard devel­ Boston made the following recom­ opment. Few residents of the area un­ Other Access mendations for the shoreline: derstand the Harbor’s form or how “1. Local communities must estab­ A complete discussion of public ac­ to get to the shore. lish new zoning regulations for water­ cess to the Harbor includes the con­ Additional physical access to the front districts to guide local develop­ siderations of public and private Harbor is provided by the many pub­ ment. transportation as well as physical lic and private piers and landings, “2. There must be a program of and visual access along the shore­ sailing and yacht clubs, marinas, and public acquisition and control for the line. In terms of “time-distance,” public access ramps. These facili­ entire shoreline from Winthrop to the Harbor shoreline is highly acces­ ties were inventoried by the Depart­ Hull. In some areas easement or im­ sible by automobile or public transit. ment of Natural Resources during mediate fee simple acquisition There are approximately three the Spring of 1971/ They represent should occur. In other areas existing million people within one hour’s important facilities for fishermen coastal uses can be permitted to re­ travel time of the Harbor. However, main with minimum regulation. private ownership and poor land use "These facilities are listed with a summary of “3. Conservation of those natural practices along the shoreline severely the services provided in the Appendix. areas that contribute to the main­

40 tenance of marine life must be as­ Some of these recommendations ample: Lovell’s Island and portions sured. It is recommended that all are being acted upon as summarized, of Long, Deer, and Peddock’s Is­ salt water marshes be placed under in part, in the preceding sections. lands. restrictive orders immediately and Unfortunately, many of the very im­ £-///. Natural Environment Areas acquired as necessary. First priority portant recommendations for the — Areas where conservation of the under this recommendation is the shoreline are little closer to realiza­ natural environment is the domin­ Belle Isle Marsh which, in addition to tion today than they were in 1967. ant purpose and recreational pur­ its value for marine life, has scenic, This report joins the final report of suits are less formal and less organ­ recreational, and aesthetic impor­ the Special Legislative Study Com­ ized in order to adapt to the natural tance for the densely populated sec­ mission on Boston Harbor in recom­ setting. Example: Portions of Long, tion surrounding it. mending major new legislation for Peddock’s, Thompson, and the “4. There must be expanded and acquiring and developing sites along Brewster Islands. improved public transportation to the the Boston Harbor shoreline for rec­ £-17 Historical and Educational activity centers along the shore; new reation and conservation. Areas — Areas that are important bicycle trails and walking paths to local and national history. should be built, and new facilities — Marshes and other natural places such as boating, launching areas and Overview of Comprehensive planned to assist school programs and serve as natural science cen­ swimming beaches — should be con­ Plan structed to provide direct access to ters. Example: Forts Warren and the water. Independence and the Salt-marsh Alternative Three was chosen as the Interpretive Center and Model “5. There should be new appro­ best plan for fulfilling the goals of Farm on Thompson Island. priations for maintenance of existing the Harbor Islands Park. It provides In addition to these general classi­ recreational areas. Site design for the highest degree of dramatic con­ fications we have used a designation new recreational areas on the shore­ trast, flexibility, and economic feasi­ for special environmental conditions line should be completed and devel­ bility consistent with the fragile is­ unique to the Harbor. One such area opment of high priority projects land environments and the policies is the old City of Boston dump on should begin immediately. set forth in Section Two. The pro­ Spectacle Island with its attendant “6. A complete rehabilitation and posed open space uses are deter­ problems. The other special designa­ reconstruction of the recreational mined by the level of activity and re­ shore of South Boston from Castle lated improvements suitable for each tion applies to the sewage treatment Island to Columbia Point is recom­ site according to its accessibility, facilities on Deer and Nut Islands. mended. natural and man-made resources, The unique characteristics of each Island and each site are the major de­ “7. In East Boston, new beach de­ and other physical characteristics. The environment types are: terminants of both the kind and in­ velopment and linear parks with tensity of uses to be provided. The sitting areas will make the shoreline £-/. 'Intensive Use Areas — Areas of high accessibility which are de­ size and location of each Island is im­ the amenity it should be for the people portant in determining its holding of the area. The shore must be rede­ veloped as planned activity cen­ ters offering a wide range of inten­ capacity and its accessibility as de­ signed and landscaped with new fined by the transportation plan. walkways, sitting areas and bicycle sive recreational opportunities. paths. Acquisition of a continuous Example: Portions of Long Island. park strip is recommended. E-ll. Moderate Use Areas — Areas Visitor Centers less intensive and less developed “8. A system of interpretive cen­ than those in Class I but still of­ ters describing the colorful and na­ Along with the information center fering a variety of activities. Ex- tionally significant history of the at the Central Ferry Terminal and a Harbor and its natural resources is smaller one at Nantasket there are recommended. This system should three major Visitor Centers on the 'This classification system was developed for relate to the Freedom Trail in down­ the MAPC’s Open Space Plan and includes class Islands. The main line ferry run or town Boston, the Aquarium, fish E-IV, Lineal Recreation Areas — Areas which link “spine” from Long Wharf to Nantas­ pier, the site of the Boston Tea Party, other environments. This class has no direct ap­ ket and the Dorchester Bay-Island and other points of interest, and plication on the Harbor Islands. However, many Loop will serve as the major organ­ lineal areas exist or could be developed on the should be part of a tourist and public mainland shoreline greatly enhancing the Har­ izing factors. Pamphlets and maps education program.” bor. of the Harbor and commentary pro-

41 Dorchester Bay and the Inner Harbor are grouped in the Dorchester Bay Sub-System. George’s, Gallop’s, Lovell’s, and the Brewsters are grouped in the Quincy Bay Sub- System, while the Islands of Hingham Bay and Hingham Harbor are in­ cluded in the Hingham Bay Sub- System.*

Individual Island Analysis Plan and Program

The following design plans for the individual Islands in Boston Harbor are presented along with the Island’s description, history and maps of the site surveys of natural and man-made factors. In addition, for each Island, there are three small analysis draw­ ings which indicate slope, surficial geology and beach characteristics** and in many instances, aerial photo­ graphs are included. The “site surveys” shown in the plans requiresomeexplanation. They were important tools in developing vided during the ferry ride will begin sters; the Peddock’s Island Visitor the designs and are included in this to give the visitor some history and Center will discuss the Islands of report to illustrate the considerations Hingham Bay in some detail. important features of the waterfront that supported the design decisions. and Harbor Islands. Major ferry In addition to serving as an intro­ Many of the design policies, as stated stops at Long (served by both ferry duction to the Island Sub-Systems, in Part Two, relate directly to the routes), George’s and Peddock’s the Visitor Centers will provide points physical characteristics of each Is­ Islands will be adjacent to Visitor of departure for formal and informal land. Alternative locations for each Centers located on each Island. Each interpretive programs about eco­ land use and recreation facility were Visitor Center, which will have a logical and historical points of inter­ analyzed for their probable impact fifty to one hundred person audito­ est on the Islands. Changing displays on the fragile Island ecology. The rium, will present an introductory on geology, Island wildlife, and ma­ final plan proposes the best general statement, history, and general orien­ rine biology might well be main­ placement of facilities.*** tation to the Harbor Islands Park Sys­ tained by local universities. During tem and to thefacilitiesand programs the period when the Harbor Islands provided throughout the Park. The Park is being developed, the Visitor general orientation program will be Centers could be used to present the supplemented with more specific in­ plans and show the progress of the 'For convenience and mapping requirements formation on the immediate area implementation program. Hangman Island has been Included with the Hingham Bay Islands, even though it is located served from each Visitor Center. in Quincy Bay. Thus the presentation at the Long Is­ Island Sub-Systems "All of the physical information was collect­ land Visitor Center will cover more ed and analyzed on large maps which were extensively the Islands of Dorchester The Island plans have been grouped later reduced for inclusion in this report. Bay; the one on George’s Island will " ‘ Exact locations of some facilities must re­ according to their geographical loca­ main flexible, pending the results of more de­ provide detailed information on the tion and relation to the Island Sub- tailed engineering studies and final designs for Islands of Quincy Bay and the Brew- Systems. Therefore, the Islands of each facility.

42 The site surveys were made in the field by four to six specialists in de­ sign and environmental science dur­ ing the Spring, Summer and Fall of 1971. A “Natural Factors” map identified existing ground cover, trees, topo­ graphic features, marshes, clam flats, beach characteristics, erosion, prevailing winds (both Summer and Winter), under-water currents, water quality, and the position of the sun (both Summer and Winter). A “Man-Made Factors” map iden­ tifies existing structures, foundation ruins of old structures, wrecked barges, litter, roads and trails, sea­ walls, cemeteries, fortifications and other factors built or left by man.* The other analyses of surficial ge­ ology, beach characteristics, and topography were also used as they related to each use on the individual Island plans.

Dorchester Bay Inner Harbor Sub-System This Sub-System is composed of the of population in the region, the most Deer Island Inner Harbor; Deer, Long, Moon, accessible, and among the largest in Rainsford,** Spectacle, Thompson, the Harbor. These Islands also have Description and History and Castle Islands; and is bounded many features that are intimately by the shoreline of Winthrop, East associated with the history of the Deer Island was connected to the Boston, South Boston, Dorchester, region. Point Shirley section of the Town of and the Squantum section of Quincy. Access is provided by the main line Winthrop by the filling of Shirley An important aspect of this Sub- ferry “spine” which begins at Long Gut in 1936. The Island has a land System is the visual excitement cre­ Wharf and has a stop at Long Island. area of approximately 210 acres and ated by the downtown Boston skyline, The Dorchester Bay Loop, also begin­ is owned by the City of Boston, the large and small ships moving in and ning at Long Wharf, provides access Metropolitan District Commission, out of Boston Harbor along President to Deer, Long, and Thompson Islands. and the United States Government. Roads, and by the coming and going It has an additional shoreline stop at Granted to Boston in 1634, it was of jet aircraft at Logan International Kelley’s Landing in South Boston and named for the abundant wildlife, Airport. will stop at Spectacle Island as soon deer in particular, that foraged in the The six Islands of this Sub-System as it is safe for public use. Access to excellent forest land and pastures are close to the major concentrations Castle Island, which is attached to reportedly in existence at that time. the mainland, is provided from Day Friendly Indians were detained on Boulevard. Additional access is pro­ the Island in 1675 during the King vided by buses and limited private Phillip War. The following year the *ln some instances this information was com­ automobiles to Deer, Moon and Long Island was converted to a prison for bined on one map. Islands. Rainsford Island has no hostile Indians captured during the "F o r convenience and mapping requirements scheduled public access and will be war. Agricultural uses predominated Rainsford Island has been included with the during the 1700’s. In the early 1800’s Dorchester Bay Sub-System, although it is lo­ accessible to private boaters or cated in Quincy Bay. charter craft only. the Island was a popular spot for

43 picnics and boat excursions. A hotel Legend became a popular summer resort. Maps of surficial geology, beach Smallpox broke out among Irish characteristics and topography are immigrants in 1847 and the Island included with each of the Island de­ was used as the site for a quarantine scriptions. For purposes of simplicity hospital. Hundreds died and were and economy a legend, which ex­ buried in unmarked graves on the plains the various symbols for the an­ Island. In 1849, plans were prepared alysis, will appear with the first set of for a large poorhouse. Construction maps only. was begun in 1850 and the facility began operation in 1852. The building Slope became the House of Reformation in 1858 and was reorganized as the l l 0 — 5% Suffolk County House of Correction WWW 5 — 12% in 1896. The existing prison still oc­ cupies the same building that was Ntf&i 12% and above built originally as the poorhouse more than 120 years ago. The area around the prison has several dilapidated structures and foundation ruins, in­ cluding the remains of an old piggery that was once run by the prison in­ mates. Geology Adjacent to the prison is the MDC sewage treatment plant. In 1889 a EM Beach, Sand, Gravel sewage pumping station was estab­ Silt, Muck, Peat lished on the Island. Coal furnaces and steam engines produced power nïïïïm Man-made to pump raw sewage into the Harbor. In the 1950’s the MDC began plan­ (êÈ>) Drumlin ning for the new sewage treatment Bedrock plant which was completed in 1968. The huge facility, with its settling tanks and vats, provides primary treatment for the sewage from 22 communities. The old pumping sta­ tion is still operating as a part of the current process and will continue to Beach Areas do so for several more years until its functions are replaced in the new □ Mostly Sand (fine sand) facility. Coarse Sand (coarse grade sand, Today the dominant physical fea­ pebbles and shells) ture of the Island is a grass covered drumlin, more than 100 feet high. A Mixed (coarsesand, pebbles, reservoir of treated effluent, reused shells, and small rocks) in the treatment plant, occupies a I’ci^voj Rocky (small rocks to 8 inches portion of the top of this hill. in diameter) In 1941, Fort Dawes was estab­ Seawall or Rip-rap (broken and lished at the tip of Deer Island. The intact seawall or rip-rap) Army Fort covered an area of approx­ imately 100 acres and was separated I a u oi Steep-eroded Banks (areas of from the rest of the Island by a 12 k n ^ major erosion) foot high concrete wall. The top of Bedrock (outcropping)

44 the hill served as the Harbor En­ trance Control Post during the Sec­ ond World War. A radar and signal station was operated by the Navy. A battery of the most advanced, radar controlled, 16-inch guns were provided for under large concrete casemates. The guns were delivered to the Island but never actually mounted or fired. In 1946 the Fort was placed on caretaker status. Ex­ cept for three small areas used by the Naval Reserve, the Fort is aban­ doned and has fallen into disrepair. The Fort is under the jurisdiction of the Government Services Adminis­ tration and the MDC is processing an application to acquire approximately 60 acres for recreation purposes and possible treatment plant expansion. The high grass covered drumlin and the southernmost point of the Island offer the best vantage points for viewing shipping activities in the Harbor’s only deep water moorage area and President Roads. Thus these NATURAL * MAN-MADE FACTORS views are a major attribute of this Island. In addition these vantage points offer a unique view of the City skyline, Dorchester Bay and the sur­ rounding shoreline. There is a natural beach on the eastern side of the Island, which is currently used by the MDC as a limi­ ted recreation facility. The remainder of the shore is very rocky or protec­ ted by seawall and rip-rap. The Island offers no hint of its once extensive forest areas. Instead it is covered al­ most entirely with grass and weeds.

Deer Island Plan

The plan for Deer Island emphasizes three major characteristics identified by the site surveys: the magnificent views from the top of the drumlin and from the southern point, the natural '¿fife' DEER ISLAND MASSACHUSEUS DfPAHIWiNI Of NATURAL RESOURCES beach on the eastern side of the Is­ BOSTON HARBOR ISLANDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN fliapc Meligpahlag Area Planning Council land, and the location of Deer Island at the entrance to Boston Harbor.

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PREV/IPUS SITE PF SUFFOLK CPUNTV WPUSE PF CPRRECTIPN

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MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES DEER ISLAND (TIOpj Metropolitan Area Planning Council BOSTON HARBOR ISLANDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

Other important features of the A major factor considered in the ing facility may be required. Assum­ plan include a children’s recreation plan for Deer Island was the probable ing an expansion of this scale, several area on the east side of the Island, expansion of the MDC sewage treat­ alternatives were investigated and playfields, picnic areas, the ferry ment plant. The exact requirements evaluated. One alternative would in­ landing and small boat dock, and off­ and configuration of this expansion volve the extensive filling of Deer shore moorage area forapproximate- are yet to be determined. If the plant Island. The scale of filling involved ly 100 small craft, and the recreation must be upgraded to include second­ would adversely affect the water support facilities adjacent to the ary treatment, a level area estimated near Winthrop. Another alternative landing area. to be five times as large as the exist­ that does not involve any fill utilizes

46 to accommodate approximately 200 swimmers and sunbathers. A 3-mile system of bicycle trails extends along the perimeter of the Island providing excellent views toward the Harbor and the open ocean. The top of the hill is kept open and tree planting is arranged so as to frame views and enhance the vistas from the picnic area and the walking trails. The southern point of Deer Island is reserved for pic­ nicking and viewing of ships passing by in President Roads. In addition to an informal open area for field games, ayoung children’s playground overlooks the Atlantic Ocean. It uti­ lizes the site of some abandoned bunkers; and earthforms are sculp­ tured to provide children-scale spaces for play equipment and games. A possibility of developing a moor­ -v age area for pleasure boats exists near the ferry dock. Dock space is provided for approximately 50 small would preserve the southern end of boats at floats adjacent to the ferry the Island for park purposes. dock. The southern end of Deer Island is designed as a large, informal park, emphasizing the passive pleasures of walking, resting on the grassy Long Island hillside, and viewing passing ships and the distant but dramatic city Description and History skyline. Picnic areas are located on many areas of the Island at spots Long Island, 213 acres, is the largest where there is the greatest visual Island in the Harbor and is owned by interest. The plan proposes an exten­ the City of Boston. It is connected to sive planting program to reforest and Moon Island by a two-lane steel visually enhance the Island as a fit­ bridge, built in 1951. Granted to the the Fort Dawes area of the Island for ting entrance to Boston Harbor. City of Boston in 1634, it was leased recreation purposes. The third, and Screen planting for the sewage to about 40 tenant farmers. After the ultimately recommended alternative, treatment plant is also recommended. Revolution, John Nelson, a Revolu­ would utilize the site of the House of A building, including a small inter­ tionary War hero, was the most prom­ Correction and an area of approxi­ pretive center for Deer Island and a inent resident, eventually controlling mately 10 acres of fill on the north food bar with outside picnic tables the entire Island. It became known side of the Island. is located near the ferry dock. In ad­ as Long Island in 1794 about the time The prison which is extremely dition, a comfort station and bath­ the first lighthouse was constructed old and outdated should be rebuilt house to serve the swimming beach on Long Island Head. A second light­ elsewhere or consolidated with an­ and pleasure boaters are located in house, built as a replacement in 1819, other institution. Use of the prison this area. A long fishing pier is pro­ still stands today although it has been site for treatment plant expansion vided with facilities for cleaning the moved twice to make room for mili­ would preclude the need to fill a large catch. The existing swimming beach tary structures. The unmanned light­ 30-acre area of Deer Island Flats and should be cleaned up and enlarged house and site, owned by the U.S.

47 Government, are maintained by the The Island became an important Coast Guard. conscript camp during the Civil War. About 1850, a land development By 1863, General Devens commanded company completed purchase of the several companies of heavy artillery Island. They drew plans dividing the and about 1,000 draftees. The post Island into small lots and envisioned was then known as Camp Wightman. a large new community, but were Several regiments of troops were unable to sell the lots. A small col­ ferried from Camp Wightman to ony of Portuguese fishermen lived on fight in the South. Just before the the Island from about 1850 to 1887. outbreak of the War, a battery of NOTE: For legend see page 44.

48 guns had been constructed on Long Island Head. The battery still exists and is an important contribution to the historic interest of the Island. Also of some historic interest is a memo­ rial to 79 Civil War dead in a cemetery located on the southern portion of the Island. These war dead were moved from Rainsford Island and reinterred here. In 1867 the camp was officially acquired and named Fort Strong, after Major General George C. Strong, who was killed at Fort Wag­ ner, South Carolina, in 1863. Fort Strong underwent extensive Disease Hospital. It became a popular cemetery of 2,000 unmarked graves renovation in 1899. Several batteries resort and illegal prize fights were was once used as a potter’s field by of 6 and 12 inch guns were emplaced. reported to be part of the attraction. the hospital. A new chapel was added One thousand five hundred men were The City purchased the hotel build­ to the hospital area in 1958 and a quartered at the Fort during World ing and a large portion of the Island new kitchen and dining hall are pres­ War I, but by World War II the guns for use by the City charities in 1882. ently under construction. were obsolete, although the Fort Six hundred and fifty paupers were The southwestern end of the Island served as a mine operations center. institutionalized on the Island in has a high, narrow, eroded drumlin, Fort Strong was declared surplus 1885. The construction of a new fa­ West Head, with a beautiful stand of property by the Army after 1946. To­ cility to care for the poor was begun pines. There are several acres of low day most of the remains of old Fort in 1891 and completed in 1892. It wetland where the Island broadens. Strong are located on the drumlin, became known as the Boston Alms­ In addition to the vegetation norm­ known as Long Island Head. This house in 1896 and was converted to ally associated with a marsh, there drumlin is covered with sumac and a home and hospital for unwed are several stands of pines and apple young poplars. A large open area, mothers in 1921. A dormitory for trees and an area of sumac and sap­ which was formerly the Fort parade homeless men was added in 1928 ling poplars. This area supports a ground, lies at the foot of Long Island and a large recreation hall, known as large population of rabbits and birds Head. One end of this area is littered the Curley Building, plus several hos­ and is an excellent wildlife habitat. with building rubble and old founda­ pital structures were built in 1932. A tions of former military structures dormitory for 300 alcoholics was An abandoned Nike site with sev­ that were destroyed by the City in added in 1940. Today the Long Island eral buildings, once housed two mis­ 1968. A coursed granite seawall sur­ Chronic Disease Hospital has over siles in underground silos. It is cur­ rounds Long Island Head and the 900 beds, and a staff of nearly 400. rently used for the storage of 700,000 east side of the parade ground area The hospital is the dominant feature volumes from the Boston Public is protected by rip-rap. of the middle drumlin area of the Is­ Library. This storage space will be In 1872, a large hotel was built on land. The complex of about 20 build­ unnecessary once the new library the site of what is now the Chronic ings covers an area of 60 acres. A addition is completed.

49 ftPTBr HIGH TIDE NUBBLE CHANNEL HOURS VELOCITY

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-CLAM DIGGING ON BEACH -ITTER on beach from PROHIBITED DUE TO 40SPITAL Í HARBOR------WATER POLLUTION INTACT SEA WALL------s LINE OF PREVIOUS ROAD------s BROKEN •REMAINS Or PUMP HOUSE AREA INTENSE BEER CAN UTTER- SEA WALL BASS POINT REMAINS OF CONCRETE INTACT UTTER IN MARSH; -PREv OUS DUMP - ASH QUARANTINE HOSPITAL------s. SEA WALL REMAINS WOODEN DOCK------•PROTECTED COVE POTENTIAL recent Cooking constructions® WATER ACCESS SEAT! no- BENCHES FROM RUINSV— WEST HEACyá RAINSFORD ISLAND / v '* LANE ASPHALT ROAD ^TENDING- ALMOST ENTRE .ENGTH OP ISLAND. Z5RICK HOLE -FOUNDATION REMAINS n U IVELL ’^ -S LiS H T LY USED FOOTPATHS \ *— BROKEN SEAWALL LITTER IN WOODS- '— CONCRETE WALL BEEIR CANS, PICNIC REMAINS L- REMAINS WOODEN LOCK •REMAiNS WOODEN PER \ — 3 CAR BODIES CONCRETE FOUNDATION REMA!NSJ -LAND ACCESS f*CM S&UANTUM.- FEVER HOSPITAL MCON ISLAND- LONG ISLAND AREA MODERATE BEER CAN LITTER— BRIOSE - -2 LANES AREA ¡ATENSE BEER CAN LITTER — HOUSE REMA IMS- BRlCKí CONCRETE

QUARANTINE ROCKS i MAN - MADE FACTORS

LONG and MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES RAINSFORD ISLANDS BOSTON HARBOR ISLANDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN m l p j : M etropolitan Area Planning Council The shore on the small cove south of Bass Point has an excellent sand and gravel beach. The point itself has a steep beach with deep water even at low tide. The rest of the shore of the Island consists mainly of rocky, narrow beaches. Productive clam flats are located along the westerly shore but are presently classified as contaminated. The central drumlin, where the hospital is located, has steep, eroded banks on both sides of the Island.

Rainsford Island

Description and History

Rainsford Island, owned by the City of Boston, is located in Quincy Bay just off the Long Island shore. It is a small, 11.4 acre Island which was originally granted to Edward Rains­ ford about 1636 for use as a farm. The quarantine hospital was moved to Rainsford Island from Spectacle Island in 1737. It continued to op­ erate there until 1852. The Island was a popular summer resort in spite of the presence of the hospital. City authorities allowed the innkeeper to take in boarders when there were no infectious diseases at the hospital. Many buildings were constructed during the hospital’s 115 year ten­ ancy. The most imposing structure was the smallpox hospital. Designed as a Greek temple, it was constructed of stone in 1832. Hundreds of those who died from infectious diseases lie buried on the Island. In 1852, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts acquired the Island for use as the State Al mshouse. About In 1882, female paupers were ently closed. Today all that remains 1866 the State abandoned the site housed on Rainsford Island. The in­ are a few ruins of foundations and and Boston converted the facilities stitution was then reorganized as a old pilings from the docks. into the City Poorhouse. Several detention center for juveniles, and in A drumlin protected by a broken veterans of the Civil War lived on the 1895 became known as the Suffolk seawall is the dominant feature on Island until 1882, when they were School for Boys. The boys were trans­ one end and gives the Island its in­ transferred to the Soldiers Home in ferred to other centers in 1920 and teresting gentle shape. Two small, Chelsea. the run-down facilities were perman­ natural coves facing the south and

52 southwest are separated by an out­ group camping sites for organized crop of bedrock nearly 30 feet high. camping enthusiasts and day camp­ Large deposits of beer cans attest to ers. A 3-mile bicycle path takes ad­ the fact that the Island is heavily vantage of the length of the Island. visited. The plan for Long Island emphasizes that it is the largest and will be the most accessible park with ocean shoreline in the Boston Metropolitan Long Island Plan Area. It is a major stop on both of the ferry routes; the Boston to Nan- The plan for Long Island optimizes tasket “spine,” and the Dorchester its potential for recreational activity Bay Loop. Passengers going to Long because of its size and easy access­ Island can use that ferry line, giving ibility. The major features of the plan Long Island the highest level of serv­ include a large Visitor Center, at the ice in the Harbor. It is also accessible northeast end, grass playfields and by public transit, utilizing buses con­ a restored Fort Strong. The south­ necting with the South Shore Exten­ west portion of the Island includes a sion of the MBTA and by charter bus. swimming beach for 400 bathers, It has been noted that control of ac­ with an adjacent picnic area; a major cess, particularly by private autos, outdoor recreation facility including is the key to the success of this plan. several playfields, a swimming and wading pool, tennis courts, and an A major consideration of this plan outdoor eating area; a wetland inter­ is the future of Long Island Chronic pretive center with trails and viewing Disease Hospital. The facility is the points designed as an educational present day manifestation of a 90- facility with explanatory signs; and year history of institutional misuse

NOTE: For legend see page 44.

53 of the Island. It is symptomatic of The top of Long Island Head pro­ size safety and selective reuse of some of our society’s most difficult vides some of the most magnificent some of the structures. The Fort is problems, the proper care of the old, views of Boston Harbor and vantage visually and historically interesting the chronically ill, and the alcoholic. points should be developed to take and should be provided with inter­ Parts of the existing facility do not advantage of the height and location pretive signs to explain its design and comply with fire and safety codes, of this drumlin in the center of the use. The plan locates playfields on public health licensing requirements, Harbor. Noise from jet aircraft land­ the site of the old parade ground with or hospital accreditation standards. ing at Logan Airport, runway 15-33, trees to provide shade and wind Currently, the City of Boston is ap­ is reported to beapproximately80dBa screens. A bus stop and parking area plying for Federal funds to improve which is slightly less than the noise of for 50 cars are provided. the facilities at Long Island Hospital. a large truck on an expressway when Two large group campsites are In addition, the City has stated that heard at a distance of 50 feet. During located in a relatively well protected it will undertake a comprehensive the summer months predominant area just south of the Hospital. Each study of the future of the hospital, winds make other runways more de­ site can accommodate up to 150 including possible relocation of the sirable. Therefore, aircraft noise is campers and includes a comfort services it provides. At the present seldom a major limitation on recrea­ station/bathhouse and day-use time, the City states that it has no tional use of Long Island Head. Reno­ shelter with centralized cooking and alternative long-term beds but the vation of Fort Strong should empha­ dining facilities. The sites are sub- hospital is in need of upgrading or it will be closed. Current concepts of care for the chronically ill indicate that community-centered care may offer a more effective alternative than that which can be readily pro­ vided at a facility as relatively iso­ lated as Long Island Hospital. The plan for Long Island has as­ sumed that the Hospital will remain on the Island until alternatives for relocation have been developed and evaluated. In the meantime, devel­ opment of the park should begin as soon as possible. The plan proposes a major Visitor Center with a comfort station and refreshment stand located at the base of Long Island Head adjacent to the ferry stops. The boat dock combines facilities for a fishing pier and a boat landing for approximately 50 small craft. The Visitor Center presents a general orientation to the Harbor Islands Park, supplemented by more specific information on the “Dor­ chester Bay Inner Harbor Sub- System” — Long, Deer, Rainsford, Spectacle, Castle, and Thompson Islands. The presentation will cover the history of the Islands and sur­ rounding shoreline and the conser­ vation and recreation programs that exist on each Island.

54 divided into several smaller areas provides excellent views of the Har­ that can be used by smaller groups. bor on both sides of the Island and better conforms to the natural topog­ The area of the old Nike Missile raphy of the Island. site is developed as a major outdoor The plan proposes three stages for recreation facility. A swimming pool, the eventual phasing-out of the Hos­ playfields, tennis courts, outdoor pital. The first phase involves the cafe, and comfort station/bathhouse construction of the new road to pro­ are so located as to take advantage vide access to Long Island Head, and of the existing topography and mini­ the ferry dock Visitor Center com­ mize the impact of these facilities plex, without passing through the on the environment. A bus stop and center of the Hospital grounds and parking for 60 cars are provided at disturbing patients and other Hospi­ this site. tal activities. conference and recreation center, The fresh water wetland located The second phase proposes the re­ dance hall, theater, and education adjacent to the abandoned Nike site moval of several Hospital buildings facility. The chapel will continue to is a nesting and loafing area for birds. not directly associated with patient be used as a house of worship. Boston Planting should encourage wildlife; care. These buildings include the Harbor lacks a major martime mu­ a small interpretive center should be present nurses’ quarters, carpenter’s seum which might be housed in a designed to provide limited access to shop, pavillion, Richards Building, reused Hospital building or in a new this interesting environment as an some seldom-used, one-story wards, building designed for that purpose. educational experience. and the old kitchen building. An area of approximately 7 acres is developed A swimming beach with a capacity as a young children’s play area with of about 400 bathers is located on the earth forms sculptured to provide Rainsford Island Plan shore south of Bass Point. A picnic small areas for play equipment and area with 50 tables is situated among imaginative games. the pines bordering the beach. Park­ The plan for Rainsford Island empha­ ing for 50 cars, a bus stop and a com­ The third phase, to be completed sizes its natural attractiveness for fort station/bathhouse are also lo­ after evaluation of the alternatives day-use and as an informal island cated near the swimming beach. for hospital relocation should be be­ picnic stop for small boatsmen. A gun by 1980. It is the considered small pier for a maximum of five A launching ramp for small boats opinion of the Metropolitan Area small boats is provided on the south is proposed for Bass Point, with park­ Planning Council that the Hospital shore to facilitate maintenance of ing for 40 cars with boat trailers. The be relocated for numerous reasons, the Island. A small day-use shelter, steep beach and deep water make but primarily for patient care. How­ with chemical toilets, is located near this an excellent site for a public ac­ ever, additional study and the knowl­ the boat dock. The coursed granite cess ramp. edge gained from developing the Is­ seawall is in need of repair, and land as outlined in Phases I and II planting for erosion control should The existing straight road bisects should aid in determining if better be done on the eastern side of the the Island. In order to reserve a large alternatives exist. drumlin. Trails, surfaced with crushed area uninterrupted by buses and stone, sand and shells, are indicated autos, to route traffic around and not The final phase proposes a major to protect the natural environment through the hospital, and to provide new multi-purpose athletic building of the Island by minimizing pedes­ a more delightful visual experience, with indoor track, swimming pool, trian use of the grassy hillsides. One the existing road has been realigned. and hockey rink as important fea­ natural cove provides an excellent The new road follows the eastern tures. Reuse of some of the Hospital informal swimming beach. The ruins edge of the Island, past Bass Point buildings is suggested as a possi­ of an old well that once supplied and then follows the natural topog­ bility for future study. The new din­ the summer resort and the variety raphy across to the western edge ing hall might be remodeled as an of institutions that have used the where it joins the newly constructed inviting Harbor-view restaurant. The Island, could potentially be rehabili­ road that passes by the west side of Curley Building might serve a variety tated as an interesting and historic the hospital. The new alignment of functions, but especially, as a source of fresh water.

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LONG and MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES RAINSFORD ISLANDS BOSTON HARBOR ISLANDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN mapj) Metropolitan Area Planning Council Moon Island the causeway. Four huge cut granite storage tanks, with a capacity of fifty million gallons, were constructed Description and History on Moon Island as a storage reservoir to hold the raw sewage. The gates to Moon Island consists of approximate­ the reservoir were opened twice ly 44.6 acres, and is connected by a daily on the outgoing tide and the two-lane causeway to Squantum in sewage flowed into the Harbor. At Quincy. The Island is now owned by the time, this gigantic project was the City of Boston. In colonial times considered the best solution to the it was known as “Mannings Moone” problem of pollution from sewage in and was used for grazing and farm­ the Inner Harbor. It cost the City six ing. million dollars and was completed in A large drumlin about 100 feet 1884, at which time it attracted high is the dominant physical fea­ worldwide attention. The huge reser­ ture. Good views are a major asset voir has an average length of 900 of the top of this hill. Quincy Bay, feet and each tank is 150 feet in Dorchester Bay, Squantum, Long width. The walls are 17 feet high and Island, Thompson Island, the Blue about 7 feet thick at the base. The Hills, the City skyline and several floors of the tanks are constructed other Islands are easily identified with gutters of brick set in concrete from this vantage point. to facilitate sludge removal. Two In 1878 the City of Boston began twelve-foot-diameter discharge sew­ construction of a large 71/2-foot- ers lead to the northern edge of diameter brick sewer from Columbia the Island where they empty into the Point to Squantum, under Dorchester Harbor. While construction of the Bay and out to Moon Island under Deer Island Sewage Treatment Plant

NOTE: For legend see page 44.

57 has removed the major load of raw sewage discharge from the Moon Is­ LEGEND land facility, It is still used to handle sewage from a portion of Dorchester and Squantum. About one million gallons of raw sewage are being sent daily into the Harbor through the Moon Island reservoir. This operation should be discontinued as soon as possible. It will require the construc­ tion of new sewers to connect Squan­ tum and parts of Dorchester to the MDC treatment facility.

In 1959 the Boston Fire Department constructed a fire fighting training facility on the northern end of the Island. This interesting facility fea­ tures a concrete building that wasde- signed to simulate the various roof shapes and window types found in the City of Boston. Special classes are conducted for various fire fight­ ing problems. In 1960, the Boston Police Department established an outdoor pistol range on the southern side of the Island. The range is used for regularly scheduled training and practice by both the Boston and Quincy Police.

The partially wooded drumlin is NATURAL FACTORS protected from erosion by a coursed granite seawall on the northeast side MOON ISLAND MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES and by rip-rap on the northwest side. mapc Metropolitan Aiea Planning Council BOSTON HARBOR ISLANDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN A rocky beach and extensive, low tide clam flats lie along the southern shoreline. Good fishing is available near the sewage outfall on the north end of the Island.

58 Moon Island Plan

The plan for Moon Island empha­ sizes the two dominant physical fea­ tures of the Island; the high vantage point offered by the drumlin, and the possible reuse of the sewage reser­ voir tanks. Other important features of the plan include walking trails, three picnic areas, a fishing pier with fish­ cleaning facilities, and a comfort station. The top of the drumlin should be left open as a viewing park for the enjoyment of the many vistas of the Harbor and surrounding shoreline. A picnic area with 25 tables is pro­ vided at the hilltop park. The steep sides of the drumlin are planted for erosion control and to discourage pedestrian use. Gravel walking trails lesend are provided through the wooded areas and around the top of the hill to the various vantage points.

=3 < r „ CSD AREAS GP UTTER. The City of Boston fire fighting ALL CTHER FACTORS ARB lcckted ce;tæ omms academy is retained as an interesting and compatible facility, but the po­ lice pistol range should be relocated MAN-MADE FACTORS as it conflicts with the passive recre­ ational enjoyment of the Island.

i l i MOON ISLAND MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF NATURAE RESOURCES Several alternatives for the reuse

TTiapC Metropolitan Area Planning Council of the sewage reservoir are being BOSTON HARBOR ISLANDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN evaluated. This plan recommends the establishment of a fish hatchery as the most viable and attractive reuse. A small hatchery interpretive center with information on the life cycle of the fish and other marine exhibits is recommended as an interesting edu­ cational facility. Another alternative that has some merit would be to de­ velop the reservoir as species hold­ ing tanks for the New England Aquar­ ium. Another picnic area with 10 tables is provided near the reservoir. A parking lot for 20 cars and a bus stop are provided near the interpre­ tive center. As with the plans for Deer and Long Islands, control of vehicular access must be achieved if

59

the ultimate recreational uses of Moon Island are to be achieved. A counter-clockwise, one-way road loop mostly on existing road is pro­ vided around the Island to give bus and auto access to the various facilities and as a turn-around for those not wishing to proceed to Long Island. A large fishing pier, with fish-clean­ ing facilities, is provided on the north end of the Island. A picnic area with 15 tables and fireplaces, a bus stop and parking lot for 40 cars, and a comfort station are provided near the fishing pier. As water quality in the Harbor improves, clamming on the flats on the south side of the Island should become a popular activity.

Thompson Island

Description and History Thompson Island is a large, 157-acre island lying in Dorchester Bay very close to Squaw Rock in Squantum. It was first settled by David Thomp­ son, who established a trading post with the Neponset Indians in 1626. The Island was acquired by the com­ munity of Dorchester in 1634 and leased to several families for farming. In 1883, the Boston Asylum for Indigent Boys moved to the Island. Two years later, the Asylum merged with the Boston Farm School Society. The name of the institution was changed to the Boston Farm and Trade School. Its purpose was to pro­ vide a home and school environment for worthy boys who for one reason or another did not have an adequate home life. By the late 1800’s the school had established an excellent farm, with a century when the increasing em­ herd of cows, pigs, horses, turkeys, phasis on a college education led to a hens, and some beef cattle. Much of change in the school’s curriculum and the marsh land was drained and the unfavorable economics of the dyked for pasture. farm led to its discontinuance. The Vocational training and farming farm and herd of cows were phased continued until the middle of the 20th NOTE: For legend see page 44. out and a more traditional academic

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SUN EXRDSUPE APC NATURAL FACTORS N ' M è THOMPSON ISLAND A MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES BOSTON HARBOR ISLANDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN °*” 'S"'1 Q]a|lC Metropolitan Area Planning Council ..Jl...... _ ... ! _ _Jl

curriculum was instituted. In 1955, which had occurred. For many years, Most of the existing buildings were the school was renamed Thompson the school enrollment has been about constructed in the early 1900’s. A Academy to more accurately reflect 100 boys, many of whom now go on gymnasium and dormitory are among the shift in educational emphasis to college. the newest. The athletic fields and

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MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES «yfe THOMPSON ISLAND niapj; Metropolitan Area Planning Council BOSTON HARBOR ISLANDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

buildings are located on rolling up­ which is an excellent saltwater marsh. fowl, and a great variety of song­ land in the middle of the Island. The The tidal ponds and salt-marsh are birds feed in the marsh, which is ex­ southern half of the Island is mostly teeming with interesting wildlife. tremely rich in nutrients. Open fields lowland, a considerable portion of Baby fish and clams, migratory water­ from the abandoned farm and several

63 good stands of hard and softwood trees as well as an old apple orchard make this Island one of the most at­ tractive In the Harbor. This variety in environmental types makes Thomp­ son Island one of the richest and most beautiful resources in the metro­ politan area. A network of grown-over dirt roads extends from one end of the Island to the other. Several old barges have been washed up along the shore and an old dump exists on the edge of the salt-marsh, but generally Thompson Island is well cared for and unlit­ tered. The Academy's pier is located on the northwest side of the Island and the Academy’s boat, the Pilgrim IV, makes several scheduled trips daily to Kelley’s Landing in South Boston. Except for a fine beach on the northeastern end of the Island, most of the shoreline is coarse sand and gravel. The northwestern side is mostly rocky. A long sandbar ex­ tends to the south and nearly con­ nects the Island with Squaw Rock at low tide. A small boat channel is maintained between the mainland and Thompson Island.

Thompson Island Plan

The plan forThompson Island empha­ sizes the natural beauty and history of the Island. Important features in­ clude an Island Model Farm, a salt- marsh wildlife sanctuary, a swim­ ming beach, and a broadening of the concept of use of the Island as an important educational facility. The Model Farm is designed to be representative of farming activities which occurred historically on most of the Islands of Boston Harbor. The Farm includes areas for rabbits, chickens, turkeys, cows, ducks, geese, pigs, horses, sheep and goats; as well as a small vegetable garden and an area for field crops. Covering

64 an area of approximately 30 acres, it is intended as an educational facil­ ity for city children similar in opera­ tion to the Audubon Society’s Drum- lin Farm in Lincoln, Massachusetts. During the week the Model Farm would provide guided tours for groups and classes of school children. Such a program could supplement classroom history and agricultural studies. Special programs associated with Farm activities such as a harvest festival could be conducted during the weekends. The Farm is designed to be capable of handling 100,000 visitors annually without adversely affecting the natural beauty of the Is­ land. A Farm Interpretive Center* and picnic area with 50 tables are located near the pier; guided tours would begin here; and visitors would receive a map of the Island and Farm including descriptive information. A small charge for guided tours should cover part of the approximately $100,000 annual operating costs of the Farm,** while participating school districts could support most of the expense Construction costs could be provided by the Massachusetts Department of Agriculture or the DNR. An operating subsidy should not be necessary as several such fa­ cilities have been established recent­ ly as profit-making facilities. A major salt-marsh wildlife sanc­ tuary takes advantage of the nearly 50 acres of salt-marsh. The sanctuary is separated by fields, a hill and by new screen plantings from the Farm. The trails and floating boardwalks

"It is recommended that the stone foundation from the recently burned barn be reused for the foundation of this interpretive center. "Inform ation on the design and operation of the Model Farm was obtained by Interview from the Administrator of Massachusetts Audubon's Drumlin Farm in Lincoln, Massachusetts. Ad­ ditional information was obtained from Kala­ mazoo Nature Center, Kalamazoo, Michigan and the Rockford, Illinois Park District.

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MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESDRRCES '« H ® THOMPSON ISLAND m apc Metropolitan Area Planning Council BOSTON HAOBOR ISLANDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN are intended as a self-guided nature vide food and cover for birds and and bathhouse serve the swimming tour with signs explaining the ecol­ other wildlife. areas. ogy of the salt-marsh. A system of A swimming beach large enough Thompson Academy has initiated viewing platforms and towers is pro­ for 300 swimmers is located on the several new programs to more fully vided so that birds, marine life, and northeast shore of the Island. Two utilize its facilities and relate more plant materials may be observed picnic areas, one with 20 tables and directly to other institutions in the while the natural environment of the another with 30 tables, are widely Boston area. Currently the University marsh is protected. An extensive spaced among the trees above the of Massachusetts and the Academy planting program is designed to pro­ swimming beach. A comfort station are co-sponsoring programs on the

66 Island. For the last two years the plan and fulfill the purposes set forth Island has been available to groups in the Harbor Islands Legislation. interested in summer use of the Island. Notable among these have been Boston area blind children and a New Spectacle Island England Aquarium-Boston Univer­ Description and History sity Joint Study Group. Additional programs are being planned and Spectacle Island, consisting of 96.9 should be encouraged as long as they acres, was originally formed by two are consistent with the educational drumlins connected by a low sand­ and conservation uses of the Island. bar. The name originated from the The Massachusetts Department of Island’s resemblance to a pairof spec­ Natural Resources will study the tacles. The Island was granted to the ownership alternatives posed by this City of Boston in 1634 and leased for plan for Thompson Island in detail. agricultural use. Fine timber and pas­ The trustees of the Academy have ture land covered the slopes of the stated their desire to retain owner­ drumlins. ship of the Island. At the same time In 1717 a quarantine hospital was the General Court has specifically constructed, and operated for the named Thompson Island as one of next 20 years until it was moved to the privately owned Islands to be Rainsford Island. Spectacle Island acquired in “fee or any lesser inter­ was a popular spot for picnics and ex­ est.” This plan recommends that less cursion stops. About 1847, two sum­ than a fee interest, either an easement mer resort hotels were opened. or very long term lease, would be suf­ Gambling was a major attraction, un­ ficient to implement the proposed til a police raid terminated this ac-

67 tivity in 1857. Shortly thereafter, the hotel business failed. After the hotels closed, the Island was purchased by Mr. Nahum Ward who established a rendering business. About 2000 horses a year were rendered to produce hides, glue-stock horse hair, “Neat’s Foot Oil,” and AFTER WI6U TIPE AFTER LOW TIDE MOORS VELOCITÀ bones. The rendering factory em­ MOUE* nÆLOCITV ployed 30 men, 13 of whom lived on XX the Island with their families. The -SEVERE CLIFF EROSION Island factory provided a convenient -V0UNG CCTTDNWÖODS location to dispose of the horses Pf?EVAILING WINTER WIND -NORTUWEST which died in the City and would ryMATURE APPLE TREES have otherwise presented a con­ STONE 4 PE&&LE &EACLI siderable public health problem. By SEVERE CLIFF ERCSIDN YDUNG CUTTUNWUDDS the early 1900’s the demand for UIÖU TIDE — SPARSE GRASS CUVÉR Ward’s products and the supply of VELtX it V - SCATTERED SUMAC - APPROXIMATE LINE OF dead horses began to dwindle, and by INTERTIDAL ZONE 1910 the business had been a- TIDAL SUMMER SUN CURRENTS- SUNRISE bandoned. JUNE ZZ In 1921, the City of Boston signed a LEGEND * NOTES contract with the Boston Sanitary De­ SEVÊRAL ELM S----- velopment Company for the reclama­ SMALL BRACkC/SW M ARSU ------tion of grease from the City’s garbage SUMAC ------, which was brought to Spectacle SEVERE ERDSIDN Island. The garbage was cooked and SEVEfS^L APPLES] PfULAC SMRUB 5 compressed to extract the grease L 4A W T U O R N S — 1 ---S U M A C OM TUE DKAWIM& -TU ICR YOUNG i W IM T E R 5UKI which was sold to soap manufac­ CO rrc t A D E C E M B E R ¿ W INTER SUN SU N JP -lSE •3UNSET-- f FLAT GRASS turers. The processed garbage was /AREA WITMJ f SUMAC Æ placed in flat cars to be dumped on PREVAILING the Island and covered with rubbish. SUMMERSOUTHWEST WIND In 1922 the contract was awarded to -TIDAL CURRENT Coleman Disposal Company. Twenty- four men were employed in the NATURAL FACTOR. grease reclamation plant. By the 1930’s the market for reclaimed SPECTACLE ISLAND MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES mapc Meiiopolilsn Area Planning Council grease diminished and the costly re­ BOSTON HARBOR ISLANDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN clamation process began to lose

68 money. In 1935, the grease extrac­ Efforts were made to control the fires salvage or fill. The southern drumlin tion plant was abandoned. The City but underground blazes still smolder is the more natural with stands of continued to dump raw garbage and today, sometimes undermining the small trees, cottonwood and apple rubbish on the Island until 1959, when surface of the dump and causing and brush. Ruins of several old build­ the South Bay Incinerator was cave-ins. The distinct odor of a burn­ ings are scattered over the area opened. The size of the Island was ing dump may still be detected which is littered with broken glass increased approximately 36 acres near Spectacle Island. and scattered rubbish. The shoreline while it was used as a dump and the The low area between the two surrounding the Island is mostly piles of garbage are estimated to be drumlins contains the ruins of the rocky and in many places is bounded in excess of 100 feet deep. Almost all grease extraction plant, whose dom­ by cliffs of decomposing trash. The of the dumping activity occurred on inant feature is a 90 foot draft chim­ Island is used extensively as a nesting the low sandbar connecting the two ney. This area, approximately 20 area by gulls and to a lesser extent drumlins and on the northern drum- acres, is currently owned by a salvage by pheasant and duck. lin. firm which loads burnable building In 1960, after the dump was demolition materials on steel barges abandoned, fire, probably from spon­ and burns them off shore. The Island Spectacle Island Plan taneous combustion, broke out on the is used to separate metal from the ash Island. The Fire Department decided and rubble. The metal and ash are The plan for Spectacle Island recog­ to let the fires burn themselves out. stored on the Island for later sale as nizes the problems presented by more than 100 years of abuse of the Island’s natural environment. It em­ phasizes a long term program of Island reclamation and the excellent potential of the Island as a base for a large 500 boat moorage area. Other important features include a picnic area, informal playfields, and a po­ tential swimming beach at the south­ FOUNDATION! ern end of the Island. E R D 5ID N OF G A R B A G E IOO FEET - GARBAGE - UJZPSELV COMPACTED- Several means of reclaiming the STILL SMOLDERING dump area were investigated. While BEFROM CAM FIRE IM Tl—iATI %0 VERV LITTERED BEACH a project of this nature requires a FROM GARBAGE more detailed engineering study, the EROSIONI OF GARBAGE most practical solution appears to be WOOD PlLIN/Gt? PR O M O L D periodic compaction of the dump sur­ ADW PREBENTLV BEIMG LEFT BP face after several days of pumping •SALVAGE. GGMRANIV INJ PROCEED OF RECLAIMING METALB EROSION water into the area to control under­ TWO & A R G E B LITTER OM 6EACU F<2

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prepared for: SPECTACLE ISLAND MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES by map_c Metropolitan Area Planning Council BOSTON HARBOR ISLANDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN gulls. The final use of this area de­ The steeply-eroded banks of the beach. The plan proposes the con­ pends largely on the success of the dump area, especially on the eastern struction of a rip-rap wall to retain reclamation project. Eventually with side of the Island, present another this material and an extensive plant­ the addition of topsoil, trees might problem. As erosion occurs, layers of ing program to control erosion. become established and the signs of rubbish are exposed and either left on The area west of Spectacle Island the Island’s 100 years of abuse would the beach or washed away with the offers a protected mooring area in become only memories. outgoing tide to litter some other excess of 300 acres of water surface.

70 The water averages between 10 and land, and a swimming beach at the 15 feet deep, an excellent depth for southern end are other major provi­ small boat moorages. Currents are sions of the plan. Water quality is a moderate and the mooring area has major consideration of the swimming two easy entrances, one from the beach. The amount and effect of north and the other from the south. leaching into the Harbor from the old The area is protected from northeast garbage dump is unknown. The area storm winds and is relatively close to at the southern end of the Island is downtown Boston and fishing areas suitable for a swimming/sunbathing in the Harbor. Vandalism at this moor­ beach but is, of course, dependent age area would be a minor problem upon improved water quality. compared to the mainland marinas. The plan provides mooring space for at least 500 small boats and an Castle Island Island marina with dock space for 100 boats. At least 50 of these slips Description and History could be reserved fortransients. Easy access to downtown Boston, other Castle Island has a land area of ap­ shore points and Islands is provided proximately 29 acres and was at­ by the Dorchester Bay Loop, the fu­ tached to South Boston by fill in the ture “neighborhood loop’’ and by spe­ 1930’s. The Island is owned by the cial motor launches. Additional pro­ MDC and operated in conjunction grams could include rowboat, sail­ with Pleasure Bay as one of the most boat, and fishing skiff rentals and popular recreation areas in the City. bait sales. In addition to the dock It has existing facilities for swim­ space, Island facilities include locker ming, walking, viewing, and a very space, storage space for moorings, popular fishing-pier used all year. winter storage space for rentals and The granite fortress, now known as approximately 100 small boats, a Fort Independence, is the historically Harbor Master’s office, and repair rich descendant of fortifications on space. No shore-dependent utilities Castle Island, which were first con­ or facilities for gas or diesel sales structed in 1634. The original fort­ are proposed in the plan. Instead, ifications, destroyed by fire in 1674, electricity is provided by a generator consisted of earthworks and a wood­ and water would be supplied by a en platform structure. A newly de­ rooftop reservoir filled by one of the signed fort of brick and stone was Harbor’s water boats. One comfort built as a replacement and designat­ station/bathhouse is provided. Food ed Castle William, in honor of King and bait sales could be provided from William IV. The Fort fired its only a boat docked at the marina. Even­ shots in anger during the Revolution tually, other utilities may be desir­ when the British Garrison turned its able, but the success of the marina guns on Boston. It was deliberately facility can be established before set afire and destroyed when the such expensive facilities are provided. British evacuated Boston in March Boating and yachting clubs may be 1776. The Fort was renamed Fort In­ interested in developing joint pro­ dependence at ceremonies attended grams with the marina and rental by President Adams in 1799. Built of facilities. Ouincy granite, the present fortress Clean-up, a planting program, was begun in 1801 and is still in ex­ trails, an informal picnic area on the cellent condition. Lt. Col. Sylvanus southern drumlin, informal playfields Thayer, who designed and built Fort on the flat area in the center of the Is­ Warren on George’s Island, oversaw NOTE: For legend see page 44.

71 some of the improvements to Fort In­ dependence during the 1830’s and 1840’s. At the outbreak of the Civil War, the Fort was garrisoned. By 1863 the Fort was connected to other installations by telegraph, and ar­ mament consisted of 107 guns. In 1890 the land surrounding the Fort was given to the City of Boston as a park. Frederick Law Olmsted pre­ pared a plan for the recreational use of the Island. The Fort was reworked slightly as a mine control and ob­ servation station during the 1898 war with Spain. An explosion, rock­ ing the Fort, occurred when powder ignited accidently, during the unload­ ing of mines. In the First World War, the Fort was used for troop training and as an observation station. A monument to the East Boston ship builder, Donald McKay, “Father of the Clipper Ship,” was erected near the Fort dock in 1933. The Fort was again used as an observation station during the Second World War. In October 1962 the land and Fort were once more acquired by the Common­ wealth of Massachusetts. The Island is adjacent to the Castle Island shipping terminal, acontainer- ized unloading facility operated by the Massachusetts Port Authority. A wire fence separates the shipping terminal from the Island. Excellent views of the main ship­ ping channel and the aircraft at Logan Airport across the Harbor are afforded by walks around the Fort.

Castle Island Plan The plan for Castle Island em­ phasizes its present role as a popular recreation area and the national and local historic significance of Fort In­ dependence. Other important fea­ tures include swimming and boating programs on Pleasure Bay and some tree planting for shade. The details of the Castle Island Plan recognize and build upon the already-estab-

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o.i. Mardi 1972 ma pç Metropolitan Area Planning Council BOSTON HARBOR ISLANDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN lished plans of the Metropolitan ster Islands.* It is bounded by the logical management as a single unit. District Commission. shoreline of Quincy, including They are tied together in the plan by Fort Independence should be re­ Squantum and Hough’s Neck, Long frequent 50 passenger ferry service. stored as completely as possible. Island and Peddock’s Island. This Guided tours during the summer and Sub-System is visually dominated by The Brewster Islands are composed interpretive markers explaining the the vast open water of Quincy Bay of Great Brewster (the only drumlin historical importance of the Fort will out to the Brewster Islands and the in the group), Middle Brewster, Little be important features. Some of the picturesque outcroppings of bed­ Brewster, Outer Brewster, Calf, Little rooms in the Fort can be appropri­ rock at the entrance to the Harbor. Calf, and Green Islands, Shag Rocks, ately utilized as museums and his­ The shoreline is built up with fairly and the Graves. These latter Islands torical display areas for groups in­ dense residential development, but are reminiscent of the Maine coast terested in the preservation and its tree covering creates the impres­ due to their jagged, rocky appearance. proper presentation of our military sion of a natural border for the Bay. history. An audio-visual presentation The Islands in the Quincy Bay Sub- Access to the Islands is provided by of the Fort’s history would be an im­ System are discussed in two logical the main line ferry “spine” which be­ portant aspect of programs for tour­ groupings: Lovell’s, Gallop's and gins at Long Wharf and stops at ists and residents. George’s Islands, and the Brewster George’s Island. A small ferry boat As stated in the description, Castle Islands. The first group provides a links Lovell’s and Gallop’s Islands Island is one of the most popular of variety of natural and man-made re­ with George’s Island and another the metropolitan parks. The Metro­ sources spread over the three Islands ferry loop provides service from politan District Commission provides in such a way as to provide for their George’s Island to the Brewsters. facilities forfishing, picnicking, stroll­ Docks are provided on Great Brew­ ing, and swimming on the Island and ster, Middle Brewster, Little Brewster, 'For convenience and mapping requirements, in Pleasure Bay. General rehabilita­ Rainsford Island has been included with the Outer Brewster, and Calf Islands, tion and landscaping of the grounds, Dorchester Bay Sub-System even though it is while the other Islands in the Brew­ placing powerlines underground, and located in Quincy Bay. ster group are relatively inaccessible. parkway improvements will greatly add to the enjoyment of these facil­ ities. Tree planting for shade and as a 6 partial screen of the shipping ter­ minal facility would further enhance the Fort and Island. Some landscap­ ing of the Castle Island shipping ter­ minal by the Massachusetts Port Authority would greatly improve that facility. Bicycle rental facilities could be provided at Castle Island to en­ courage the use of the continuous path system along the Harbor. The Pleasure Bay Boating Club provides a new program for beginning sail­ CC? Little ing on the protected water of Plea­ sure Bay.

Quincy Bay Quincy Bay Outer Harbor Sub-System

This Sub-System is composed of Quincy Bay, Lovell’s, Gallop’s, George’s, the Graves and the Brew-

75 George’s, Gallop’s, and was named in honor of Captain John Lovell’s Islands George, a prominent Boston mer­ chant and Town official in about These three Islands are located near 1710. During colonial times the the center of Boston Harbor and are Island was the site of a succession so close to one another that they are of farms, beginning with James a logical grouping. Their natural and Pemberton in 1628. Thomas man-made factors reinforce the logic Crane operated a successful stock of considering the group as a single farm on the Island after the Revo­ unit. lution. His son, Thomas Crane, Historic Fort Warren makes Jr., born on the Island in 1802, be­ George’s Island one of the major at­ came a successful businessman and tractions in the Harbor. Gallop’s Is­ established a public library in Quincy land, the smallest of the group, has with a large donation. In 1778, the been extensively used by man and is French built the first fortification of covered by the remnants of its prior the Island, earthworks to protect their fleet in Boston Harbor. An Army development. Lovell’s Island has also been the site of significant Harbor Engineer group surveyed the Island fortifications but has a variety of as a potential fortress in the early natural features which are lacking on 1820’s. In 1825 the Island was pur­ the other two Islands. chased by the City of Boston and deeded to the Federal Government. The construction of the coursed George’s Island granite seawall was begun at this Description and History time and completed in 1833. Lt. Col. Sylvanus Thayer, known as the George’s Island, now owned by the “Father of West Point,” designed and Metropolitan District Commission, supervised the construction of Fort

76 signed to take advantage of both of Yankee song “John Brown’s Body” these hills. The north bastions are was composed by members of the 2nd hidden by an earth coverface and sur­ Infantry who were quartered at Fort rounded by a “dry moat”. The mas­ Warren during the first year of the sive size of the fortress is not evident Civil War. until one enters. It is nearly a mile At the beginning of the war with around the perimeter formed by the Spain in 1898, Fort Warren again as­ Fort’s interior walls. Inside the walls, sumed an important role. It was the a large parade field is edged with first line of defense for Boston Har­ maple trees. bor and several new 10 and 12 inch The seawall and Fort were built disappearing guns were installed by entirely of Quincy granite and are 1902. In addition, 3 and 4 inch guns generally in excellent condition to­ were installed as protection against day. Each block of granite was cut small torpedo craft. During World and faced by hand to fit its location War I, the old quarters were again — a process which took one laborer crowded with 1600 men, many of from one to two days. The Fort was them in tents scattered over the Is­ completed in 1850 and is an out­ land. The Fort was the headquarters standing example of mid-nineteenth for the Boston Harbor Defense Com­ century fortification. At the outbreak mand until 1922 when the head­ of the Civil War the fortress was quarters were transferred to Fort without guns, the Massachusetts Banks in Winthrop. During World State Legislature appropriated 1.5 War II, the Fort was reactivated and million dollars to fortify the coast and used as a base for Harbor mining many heavy Blakely guns were pur­ operations and as an observation chased from England for Fort Warren. post. Fort Warren was decommis­ Its full strength was 300 guns and sioned in 1946 and acquired by the 1500 men. By 1861 the Fort was gar­ MDC in 1951. The Fort has been risoned and was being used as a designated a National Historic Site by prison for Southern prisoners of war. the U.S. Department of the Interior. This period of the Island’s history is Most of the 28 acre Island is occu­ the most interesting. The Confed­ pied by the five-bastioned granite erate prisoners included many pro­ Fort. It is presently the major attrac­ minent Southerners, including James tion in Boston Harbor and is visited by Murray Mason and John Slidell, the an estimated 70,000 persons an­ Confederate Commissioners to Eng­ nually. The area outside the Fort walls land and France. They were captured is scattered with picnic tables, fire­ aboard the British mail steamer Trent places and litter barrels. as it sailed for England. The Trent The Fort has been neglected for Affair was a serious incident that years and very little of it is open to threatened to bring England into the the public. Many of the historic and War on the side of the South. Mason decorative fixtures have been stolen and Slidell were released under spe­ or vandalized. Currently, the MDC cial orders from President Abraham has an employee, who is living full­ Lincoln. Alexander Hamilton time on the Island and who is en­ Warren, which was named in honor Stephens, Vice President of the Con­ gaged in researching its history and of General Joseph Warren, who fell federacy, was also imprisoned at restoring some of the historic rooms. at the battle of Bunker Hill, June 17, Fort Warren after his capture in Included in this restoration are 1775, Georgia early in 1865. There are murals depicting Civil War activities The original topography of numerous descriptions of exciting but on the Island in the John Brown George’s Island consisted of north mostly unsuccessful attempts to es­ Chapel and an interesting mine plot­ and south drumlins. The Fort was de­ cape from Fort Warren. The famous ting room.

77 A large pier on the west side of the substantial part of a gravel cliff was Island serves commercial passenger dug away to provide an open view boats and about 30 private boats may of the sea for the proposed Fort War­ dock at floats. A small beach is lo­ ren on George’s Island. cated north of the dock. The rest of In 1819, the Island was purchased the shore is very rocky or rip-rap and by Peter Newcomb, who operated a granite seawall. A large breach has successful farm. After his death in occurred in the seawall on the eastern 1833, his widow opened a restaurant side of the Island and several of the and inn and the Island was known as smaller historic gun emplacements Newcomb’s Island. In 1855, the inn have been destroyed. An engineer­ was sold to Joseph Snow, who con­ ing study, currently in progress, will tinued to operate a successful and determine the necessary repairs for popular establishment. the seawall. In 1860 the City of Boston pur­ chased the Island and deeded it to the Federal Government. During the Civil War long lines of wooden barracks Gallop’s Island were built for the nearly 3,000 re­ cruits stationed on the Island. After Description and History the War, Gallop’s Island was returned to the City and in 1866 the quaran­ Privately owned Gallop's Island was tine station for Boston Harbor was named for its first recorded owner, moved to the Island from Deer Island. Captain John Gallop, a Harbor Pilot. For several years the hospital took in Successive owners were farmers who about 50 patients a year. Those who produced vegetables and milk for died were buried in unmarked graves ships at anchor in the Harbor. Sand on the Island. Several buildings were and gravel were removed from the constructed for the hospital, and in Island at various times. In 1827, a 1870 a cut granite seawall was built

NOTE: For legend see page 44.

78 to arrest erosion on the northern and western sides of the Island. The U.S. Public Health Service as­ sumed control of the Island in 1916 and established the Immigration Sta­ tion which was to process thousands of immigrants. Facilities consisted of an administration building, several dormitories, nurses’ quarters, doctors’ residences, and the hospital. One of the few brick buildings was the powerhouse. Part of the Immigra­ tion Station was moved in the 1920’s but the quarantine hospital remained until 1937 when it was moved to the mainland. The United States Maritime Service established a radio school on the Island around 1940. Several new buildings were constructed, including a large recreation hall, thefoundation of which is still visible next to a paved outdoor athletic court. The school was closed after the war and several of the buildings were sold. The large recreation hall was dis­ mantled along with at least three other buildings, and was moved to Boston University. The Island, sold at public auction in 1947, has since been used briefly as a dump as is evi­ denced by a pile of burned debris near the dock. The 16-acre Island consists of one large drumlin that ends in a long, low sandbar at the eastern end. A major boat channel passes between Gallop’s and Lovell’s Island. The old dilapi­ dated Army dock on the south side is protected by a jetty extending into the water and forming a protected landing area that is partially blocked by a sunken metal barge. The shore to the east of the dock is a very good sandy beach, while most of the re­ mainder of the Island’s perimeter is bounded by seawall. There is a great deal of sumac and wild roses as well as some grassy open areas and brush. A few trees, including maples, pine, aspen, and apple, are located on the

7 9 south side of the Island. There are ex­ Company K of the 18th New Hamp­ cellent views of the entire Harbor shire Volunteer Infantry during the from the top of the drumlin. Civil War. Sometime after the Civil War, an unusual submarine case­ mate was constructed with its en­ trance from the southwestern side Lovell’s Island of Lovell’s Island. A tunnel was constructed under the channel Description and History between Lovell’s and Gallop’s Is­ Lovell’s Island, owned by the Metro­ lands. Explosives could be set to politan District Commission, is be­ go off at the same time a ship lieved to have been named after Cap­ passed through the channel a- tain William Lovell of Dorchester. It is bove the tunnel. located near the junction of the two main channel entrances to Dorches­ Fort Standish was established in ter Bay. In colonial times the Island 1900 and was named for Myles Stan­ was covered with mature trees which dish, who arrived on the “Mayflower” were cut for firewood over the years. and gained military distinction while A succession of farms were estab­ a member of Plymouth Colony from lished on the Island. It was acquired 1620 to 1656. The Fort consisted of by the City of Boston and later given several batteries of 10, 6 and 3 inch to the Federal Government. Congress rifles and several temporary barracks. appropriated money and a protect­ During the Second World War, ive, cut-granite seawall was con­ searchlight and modern observation structed on the northwest side of the stations were built. The Fort was de­ Island in 1844. A lighthouse buoy clared surplus shortly after 1946 and station was established in 1874. The the Island was acquired by the MDC Island was the training station for in 1951.

NOTE: For legend see page 44.

80 factors of each Island. George’s Is­ mented by more specific information land is dominated by the importance on George’s, Gallop’s, Lovell’s, Great of the National FHistoric Site, Fort Brewster, Middle Brewster, Calf, Out­ Warren. The most important charac­ er Brewster, Little Brewster, Little teristic of Gallop’s Island is its Calf, the Graves, Green and Hangman capacity to hold relatively large Islands. The audio-visual presenta­ groups of people for purposes of ac­ tion would include histories of the Is­ tive recreation with minimal loss lands and surrounding shoreline, im­ of valuable natural environment. portant natural features, and the con­ Lovell’s Island has several natural fea­ servation and recreation programs tures that are emphasized by the which exist on each of the Islands in plan. It has some of the finest beach the Sub-System. Two or three offices areas in the Harbor and natural areas and small conference rooms located The 62-acre Island is about %’s of a that are especially suited for small on the second floor would be used by mile long and 'A of a mile wide. It has family campsites. It, too, has fortifica­ Island personnel for administration a drumlin in the center and is very tions that are of special historic in­ purposes and for special meetings of low at both ends. The topography terest. small groups. has been greatly modified for Fort Standish. A few pine trees are clus­ George’s Island Plan Fort Warren offers one of the finest tered near the center of the Island, opportunities for a dramatic, educa­ but the majority of ground cover con­ The plan for George’s Island empha­ tional experience on the East Coast of sists of sumac and dense brush. The sizes the historic man-made resource the United States. As a man-made re­ Island is used as a loafing and feed­ of Fort Warren and the Island’s role source it is an outstanding and unique ing area by several varieties of shore- as a major stop on the Boston-Nantas- example of mid-nineteenth century birds and is used for nesting by gulls. ket ferry “spine.” Other important military architecture. It is a reminder Meadow mice were found in some of features include a military museum, of the personalities and events of the grassy areas. The north and a small swimming beach, and facil­ one of the most important turning northeast shores are protected by cut- ities for family picnics. points in our national history — the granite seawalls. The south side of The major Island Visitor Center for Civil War. the Island has an excellent sandy the Brewster Islands and the Quincy The Fort is in need of major and beach, which is presently used for Bay Sub-System is located in the costly renovation and restoration. bathing and picnicking. brick Army building near the ferry Many of the rooms need to be restored The massive concrete gun bat­ landing and boat dock. The building and refurnished to recreate the Civil teries of Fort Standish are the out­ can be easily renovated to house an War appearance. A military museum standing man-made features on the Island information center, waiting with photographs and personal mili­ Island. A new pier, constructed by room, rest rooms, offices, conference tary paraphernalia would help illus­ the MDC in 1970, provides access to rooms, an auditorium, and small re­ trate and add to our understanding of the Island. New floats and ramps freshment stand. The waiting room history. Fiberglass reconstructions have been added for the summer of space would serve as a reception and of some of the Fort’s 10 and 12 inch 1972. information center for the Island pro­ disappearing rifles as well as Civil viding descriptive material and War guns would add to the compre­ maps on George’s, Gallop’s and hension of the evolution of military George’s, Gallop’s, and Lovell’s Islands, the Brewster Island history. The restorations of Fort Lovell’s Islands Plans group, and the Quincy Bay shore­ McHenry in Baltimore, Fort Sumter line. Static displays and photo murals in South Carolina, and El Morro in These three Islands are designed to would help illustrate the Islands’ man­ Puerto Rico provide examples of suc­ complement each other and operate made and natural points of interest. cessful restoration programs con­ as a single recreational unit. The The auditorium presentation, sche­ ducted by the National Park Service. three islands are linked by a 50 pas­ duled every half hour during periods Guided tours, pageants, parades, re­ senger ferry operating on a frequent of peak visitation, would include a enactments of historic events, and schedule. The plans emphasize the general orientation to the Harbor Is­ special educational programs would most important natural or man-made lands Park, which would be supple­ all add to the value of this fantastic

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MAN-MADE FACTORS , LOVELL'S GALLOP'S '■¿ ä i-Ä and GEORGE'S ISLANDS À MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES Q13pj) Metropolitan Area Planning Council BOSTON HARBOR ISLANDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN historic resource. Immediate repairs passenger ferries and charter boats. beach. Directly adjacent to this beach of the breached seawall are neces­ Dock space at floats is provided for is a picnic area for small groups with sary to arrest the erosion on the east 30 small boats. Overnight docking about 15 tables and fireplaces scat­ side of the Island. with water and electricity for tran­ tered in the thick growth of trees. The Metropolitan District Commis­ sients is available on a fee basis. A An area designed for large groups sion is contemplating a major reno­ small mooring area for larger craft is has been provided on the drumlin just vation program for Fort Warren and provided about 200 yards off the northwest of the pavillion. Three the remainder of the Island. This pro­ southern shore of the Island. separate “clambake pits” are provided gram, as presently understood, is con­ Adjacent to the dock is a land­ for catered or organized group cook- scaped quay with a large multi-pur­ sistent with the Comprehensive Plan outs. Each “pit” area is designed to pose pavillion and the Island’s com­ to the extent that it would result in an accommodate up to 100 people and is Island environment of historic sig­ fort station and bathhouse. This build­ provided with a central fire pit sur­ ing contains an Island interpretive nificance. rounded by raised seating. A cleared center, information on facilities, Is­ The use of the Island should empha­ grassy area and about 60 tables com­ size and enhance the appreciation of land and marina administration of­ plete this picnic area. Such a design its historic significance. No provisions fices and quarters for resident sea­ will allow the area to sustain a high are made in the plan for recreational sonal staff, as well as a large room level of use with minimum mainten­ suitable for meetings or small group activities that are totally unrelated ance and damage to the natural en­ gatherings. The cafe, located in the to the Island’s historic character. A vironment. very small swimming beach is located pavillion, is provided with a terrace on the shore just north of the ferry for outdoor dining, with views toward On the top of the drumlin is a flat dock. This area is suitable for an in­ Long Island Head and the City skyline grassed play area that is suitable for formal beach, but those visitors com­ in the distance and toward George’s softball and other field games. An ing to the Island should be en­ Island. existing slab foundation is retained couraged to swim on Lovell’s or Gal­ A fine, sandy beach for approxi­ and improved for court games. The lop’s Island. General landscaping and mately 100 swimmers is available system of trails goes around the en­ some new tree planting will improve east of the dock. The comfort station tire Island and special viewing areas the grounds and provide shade. and bathhouse is located near the with benches from which one can en- George’s Island should be an inte­ gral part of the many sight-seeing tours of Boston and its environs. It is a logical addition to the Freedom Trail and an extension of the City of Boston’s planned “Walk to the Sea.”

Gallop’s Island Plan

The plan for Gallop’s Island empha­ SECTION__')«■ - I'-C sizes its role as an Island recreation facility, especially designed to accom­ modate group day outings. Important features include a swimming beach, grass playfields, two picnic areas, three specially designed clambake sites, a paved area for court games, and a multi-purpose pavillion with a refreshment stand and outdoor dining area. The existing dock is rehabilitated, in the plan, to accommodate the 50

84 joy the views of the Harbor and sur­ Both sides of Lovell’s Island have off the main trail on small “cul-de- rounding Islands are provided. beach areas which are suitable for sac-like” clearings. This is the only swimming. Ample beach area is pro­ camping of its kind in the Harbor Is­ vided for 250 bathers and a bathhouse lands Park; indeed it is one of the Lovell’s Island Plan and comfort station is centrally lo­ unique camping opportunities in cated to serve both beaches. Two pic­ New England. Island campsites have nic areas with a total of 75 tables been successfully provided in more The plan for Lovell’s Island empha­ with fireplaces and a large grassy remote areas of New York State and sizes its important natural features playfield are provided in the area be­ along the Saint Lawrence Seaway. and to a limited extent the massive, tween the swimming beaches. Lovell’s Island offers a similar oppor­ man-made fortifications. The major The plan provides 30 individual tunity, largely because of the poten­ features of the plan include two swim­ campsites for family or individual tial for highly controlled access and ming beaches, which take advantage tenting. Each site is equipped with a supervision, within five miles of of the best sand on the shoreline; a wooden tent platform, a stone fire­ downtown Boston. Its location as a campground for individual and fami­ place, and a picnic table. These sites part of the three Island group — ly camping enthusiasts; a large grass would be available on a fee basis and George’s, Gallop’s and Lovell’s — playfield, and partial restoration of carefully supervised. The sites are with frequent ferry shuttle service, the historic fortifications. widely separated for privacy and the will allow Island operating personnel tent platforms are designed to min­ to share work on all three Islands. imize the damage to the natural en­ vironment. Of course, the cutting of The historic fortifications provide a wood forcampfires will be prohibited. unique example of early twentieth Instead, charcoal should be carried century military architecture and an onto the Island and/or available at interesting contrast with the earlier the Island administration building. A nineteenth century Fort Warren on centralized comfort station is located George’s Island. Partial renovation of in the campground area. Each camp­ these structures includes new hand­ site is isolated by screen planting and rails and other safety precautions as well as fiberglass replicas of some of the guns which were once mounted in the massive installations. Inter­ pretive signs tell the story of the use and importance of the guns, and during the peak season guided tours could add to the appreciation of the Fort’s historic significance. Because of the multiplicity of pro­ grams on Lovell’s Island a full-time resident Island administrator is re­ quired during the peak season of Island use. The plan proposes the re­ use of one of the military structures for the administration office and residence. Additional space for main­ tenance equipment and winter stor­ age of supplies can be provided in the bunkers not open for tours.

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LOVELLS GALLOPS MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES and GEORGE'S ISLANDS mapc Metropolitan Area Planning Council BOSTON HARBOR ISLANDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN The Brewsters family farmed the Island in the 1800’s. The City of Boston bought the Island The outermost Islands of Boston Har­ in 1848 and turned it over to the bor are known collectively as the Federal Government. Congress ap­ Brewsters. They include Great Brew­ propriated funds and a Ouincy gran­ ster, Middle Brewster, Little Brewster, ite seawall was constructed around Outer Brewster, Calf, Little Calf, and the north, east, and south sides of the Green Islands, Shag Rocks, and The Island to prevent further erosion. Graves. With the exception of Great The seawall is still in good condition Brewster, which is a large drumlin, today. these Islands are outcrops of solid The navigation aid, Bug Light, was bedrock. The Islands are named in built on spidery stilts as a manned honor of Elder Brewster, the first lighthouse in 1856. After a fire in preacher and teacher at Plymouth, 1930 it was rebuilt as an automatic and were granted to the Town of light. It is located at the end of a long Hull in 1641. spit of sand which extends more than a mile southwest of the Island. At Great Brewster high tide the spit is covered, but at low tide it is possible to walk out al­ Description and History most to Bug Light. Privately owned Great Brewster has During World War 11 a sophisticated an area of 23 acres and is the largest bomb and chemical proof harbor of the group. A large eroded drumlin, mining casemate was constructed. 100 feet high, is its dominant natural This command post contained elec­ feature. tronic equipment which controlled There is little record of early activ­ the operation of the Boston Harbor ity on the Island, but at least one mine field in conjunction with other

NOTE: For legend see page 44.

87 facilities on George’s Island and Deer Island. On top of the drumlin at the northern end of the Island was a bat­ tery of 90mm rapid-fire guns to pro­ tect the Harbor against fast-moving torpedo boats. Several observation and searchlight stations were part of the installation, and temporary build­ ings housed the men required to operate the facility. The remains of these buildings and ruins of an old dock are the major man-made fea­ tures of the Island. The growth on the Island is sparse. There are a few trees, but in general plants do not grow as fast as on the more protected inner Islands. Wild roses grow in profusion and provide impressive displays of color in the early Summer with flowers and in the late Summer with fruits. Just off­ shore there are several small tidal pools created in the rocks.

Middle Brewster Island

Description and History

Privately owned Middle Brewster Island is a high, rocky outcrop of about 12 acres. A small colony of fishermen established a settlement on the Island about 1840 and were the first inhabitants recorded. About 1871, the Island was purchased by Augustus Russ, a wealthy individual who built a large summer residence. He leased several lots for other sum­ end. An extensive population of sea­ mer residents. About 1890, Benjamin gulls nest on the east end of the Is­ P. Cheney built a house on one of land and numerous rodents feed a- these lots, but moved to Calf Island long the shoreline. Several stone after Russ refused to allow him to walls and masonry foundations indi­ build an icehouse. cate the location of the old summer The Island shoreline is completely homes. rocky with several steep cliffs drop­ ping abruptly to the ocean. A thicket Outer Brewster Island of small trees exists on the south­ western side of the Island and a fresh­ Description and History water marsh, surrounded by bram­ Privately-owned Outer Brewster bles and cattails, exists on the eastern NOTE: For legend see page 44. covers 17.5 acres and is the largest

88 tower, could directthefireof theguns with accuracy up to 15 miles. The in­ stallation had its own desalinization plant for fresh water supply. The site was deactivated in 1946 and the Is­ land was sold as surplus in the early 1950’s. Outer Brewster Island is edged with high cliffs of bedrock. These cliffs and the views are very striking and contrast dramatically with the more protected and placid Islands in the Harbor. There are several acres of grass and brush, but no trees on the Island. An extensive population of seagulls nest on the Island and numerous rodents feed along the outcrop of solid bedrock in Boston shoreline. The concrete barracks and Harbor. It was once known as Out­ Battery Jewell provide silent testi­ ward Island and is the most easterly mony to the Island’s importance dur­ Island in the Harbor. In 1799 the Is­ ing World War II. land was purchased by Nathaniel Austin and remained in the family for many years. Arthur Austin, a son of the original owner, is known to have quarried rock from the Island for Little Brewster Island building purposes. Several roads in Boston are believed to have been Description and History macadamized with aggregate from Outer Brewster Island. One report in­ Little Brewster Island is the site of his­ dicates that Austin intended to use toric Boston Light. The original light the site of the quarry as a small boat was built in 1716 and destroyed and harbor. A cove on the northeast end rebuilt several times before the pres­ of the Island marks the site of the old ent structure was constructed in 1783. quarry and proposed harbor. The 98-foot-high tower is manned The Island was acquired by the Fed­ and operated by the Coast Guard and eral Government and in 1941 the Army has been declared a National His­ and the United States Engineer De­ toric Landmark. The Island is entirely partment built Battery Jewell. This federally owned, but is not currently battery consisted of two 6 inch radar open to public visits. controlled guns and was a completely self-sufficient unit. Approximately 125 men were required to operate the battery and were housed in three splinter proof reinforced concrete bar­ racks. The battery itself was con­ structed of reinforced concrete and was designed to be bomb and chem­ ical proof. It was built into a man­ made hill with several built-in tunnels and ammunition storage rooms. A radar unit, mounted on a 100-foot NOTE: For legend see page 44.

89 the only remains of these buildings are the ruins of foundations and two stone chimneys. The main house and boat house were destroyed by fire after the war. In fact, the roof of one O gazebo-style building overlooking the Harbor was destroyed by a fire set by vandals during the summer of 1971. The Island has an extensive popula­ tion of gulls and rats.

Little Calf Island

Description and History

Little Calf Island is a less than one acre outcrop of bedrock about 100 yards north of Calf Island. It has never been inhabited by man but is an active cormorant nesting colony $ which should be conserved as a natural area.

Green Island Calf Island Description and History Description and History Privately owned Green Island is an outcropping of bedrock covering less Privately owned Calf Island was once than 2 acres. Records indicate that known as North Brewster Island. For the Island is named for Joseph Green, many years the Island was inhabited a well-known merchant, who owned by a small colony of lobstermen. In the Island in colonial times. The Is­ 1883 the Island was the scene of il­ land was the home of a succession of legal Sunday boxing matches. lobstermen as well as a hermit. The Island changed hands many There is very little soil or plant life times. In 1902 Benjamin P. Cheney on the Island but it is an active nest­ and his actress wife, Julia Arthur, ing area for gulls and cormorants. purchased the Island and constructed a magnificent house on a cliff over­ looking the southeastern shore of the The Graves Island. A large two-story boat house and dock was part of the complex. Description and History The Federal Government pur­ chased the Island during the First The Federal Government built Graves World War, but there is no record of Light on the rocky outcrop known as military use of the Island until World Graves Ledge in 1905. The Graves War II. During World War II a search­ was named in honor of Thomas light was installed on Calf Island and Graves, a vice-admiral of Winthrop’s the 14 men assigned to operate the fleet in the 1600’s. The Lighthouse, light resided in the former boat house as an aid to navigation, marks the NOTE: For legend see page 44. of the Cheney-Arthur estate. Today main entrance to Boston Harbor and

90 LEéj&MD 4 WGrrëS provement of the unique natural quality of their scenic environment. The creation of a Boston Harbor Outer Sanctuary, composed of the Is­ lands, together with adjacent water, islets, rocks and flats, will assure the preservation and natural manage­ ment of this valuable natural re­ source. Such a recommendation was made in the final report of the Spe­ cial Commission on the Boston Har­ bor Islands and it is restated as an integral part of this Comprehensive Plan for the Boston Harbor Islands. Other important features of the plan include 27 “primitive” campsites as­ signed equally to Calf, Middle Brew­ ster, and Outer Brewster Islands; an underwater park for scuba diving and exploration of the old shipwrecks and unique marine environment; trails and self-guided nature walks with interpretive signs to describe the ecological and geological features of the Islands; and minor restoration of the fortifications on Great Brew­ ster and Outer Brewster Islands. Nine primitive campsites are locat­ ed on each of the following Islands — Calf, Middle Brewster, and Outer Brewster. The campsites are intended for island wilderness camping by in­ dividuals or very small groups with previous reservations. They consist of a small clearing located off the main trail system and are sited to NATURAL i take maximum advantage of vistas MAN-MADE and the protection offered by the FACTORS natural topography. No fresh water is

MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF NATURAI Ri SOURCES to be provided on the Islands and Ä s- THE BREWSTERS mäße Metropolitan Area Planning Council BOSTON HARBOR ISLANDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN chemical toilets are located adjacent to the boat docks. A shelter is located next to the dock for emergency use and flag poles and flares are recom­ the most northerly point of the bedrock ledges, that were once very mended for signals in case of emer­ group of Islands known as the dangerous to mariners. Today they gency. Brewsters. are active gull and cormorant nest­ Shag Rocks ing areas. The Brewster Islands provide one of the most unique marine environ­ Description and History The Brewster Islands Plans ments on the Massachusetts coast. Shag Rocks, once known as Egg The plan for the Brewster Islands em­ They provide a highly accessible Rocks, are a group of formidable phasizes the maintenance and im­ marine habitat that has been the sub-

91 GREEN ISLAND

CONSERVATION. CORMORANT NESTING- ARE A

HYPOCRITE CHANNEL

DIRT WALKIN6 TRAILS. CUT STEPS IN BEDROCK WHERE NECESSARY------v

9 PRIMITIVE CAMPSITES

TREE 4 SWRUB PL ANTINGS WISH LITTLE CALF ISLAND TOLERANCE TO iE A iH i’ RE CONDITIONS

OUTER BREWSTER ISLAND

TREE 4 9MRUB PLANTINGS. WIGW POSSIBLE UNDERWATER FARK IN RESTORE BUNKER. TOLERANCE TO VICINITY OF UARBORS BREWSTER ISLANDS INJTERPRETIVE SIGNS SEASHORE ---- FARMER DESALINIZATION PLANT 9 PRIMITIVE SWELTER 4 CHEMICAL TOILET' CAMPSITES MINOR FERRY LAMPIM6 ♦ DIRT WALK.INJC. SCAT DOCK. 9 BOATS TRAILS STEPS INJ BEDROCK WHERE* NECESSARY-----

MINOR PERRV 9 PRIMITIVE CAMPSITES LANDING 4 SMALL BOAT PCCK. 5 TREE 4 5W?U9 PLANTINGS HIGH TOLERANCE TO SEASHORE INTERPRETIVE CONDITIONS CENTER FOR MIDDLE BREWSTER ISLAND BREWSTER ISLANDS, SWELTER 4 ¿TPMPPRT PIRT WALKING TRAILS. STEPS IN BEDROCK WHERE NECESSARY STATION. STONE HOUSE FOUNDATION ----- MINPR FERRY LANDING» 4 SMALL SCAT DOCK, CHEMICAL TOILET

TIDAL POOLS, INTERPRETIVE w alks w rru sig n s SEAWALL CONSTRUCTION 4 SANK PLANTING.. RESTORE BUNKER. INTERPRETIVE

DIRT WALKING. MINOR FERRY LANDING. 4 GREAT BREWSTER ISLAND SMALL BOAT DOCK. 5 BOATS CHEMICAL TOILET SHAG ROCKS TREE 4 SWRUB PLANTINGS. VERY HIGH TO SEASHORE RESTORE BUNKER INTERPRETIVE

LITTLE BREWSTER ISLAND SITE OF MANNED BOSTON LIGUT

THE BREWSTERS MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES BOSTON HARBOR ISLANDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Q13(1Ç Metropolitan Area Planning Council ject of several studies of marine bi­ curring on the western face of the and where necessary, wildlife manage­ ology and a favorite site for recrea­ drumlin. Extensive engineering ment practices will be utilized to con­ tional diving. Numerous shipwrecks, studies will be required to determine trol rat populations. dating back to an unidentified brig the design of this seawall and the which was wrecked off Boston Light exact costs and benefits of stopping in 1768, add interest to underwater the erosion. The reaction to such na­ Hingham Bay Sub-System exploration. More complete study tural forces as erosion should be care­ of the potential for developing an fully evaluated. While a part of Great This Sub-System is composed of the underwater park should be under­ Brewster Island is eroding, other na­ shoreline and Islands of Hingham taken before specifying the exact pro­ tural forces, tidal currents, are de­ Bay, including Peddock’s, Bumpkin, grams to be included. The designa­ positing the eroded material on the Grape, Slate, Sheep, Raccoon, Nut, tion of an underwater park for this beaches of other Islands or the main­ and Hangman Islands;* and the area is consistent with the concept land shoreline. The building of the small Islands in Hingham Harbor, of the Boston Harbor Outer Sanctu­ seawall may achieve the goal of stop­ it is surrounded by the shorelines of ary. Possible programs include a ping the erosion, but it might also de­ Hull, Hingham, Weymouth, Braintree, marine naturalist station on Great plete an important supply of beach and the Hough’s Neck section of Brewster Island, which would provide sand. Quincy. The most important aspects introductory demonstrations on ma­ Small boat docks, emergency of this protected Bay are its numer­ rine ecology with tide pool and shore­ shelters, and chemical toilets are pro­ ous natural resources. The coastline line walks. Underwater tours might vided on each of the four larger Is­ is quite irregular due to the biolog­ be conducted for scuba divers. lands — Outer Brewster, Middle Brew­ ically rich tidal estuaries, including Self-guided trails are provided with ster, Great Brewster and Calf Islands. the Weir River, Weymouth Fore and interpretive markers to explain the They are arranged to facilitate main­ Back Rivers and the large cove unique outer harbor natural environ­ tenance and control of Island use. that forms Hingham Harbor. The na­ ment, the biological communities The Boston Harbor Outer Sanctu­ tural topography of the areas in­ and such natural forces as erosion. ary would be managed as a conserva­ cludes numerous drumlins, including Erosion is a natural force, dramat­ tion area emphasizing its wild, ma­ World’s End, which define the Bay ically evident in the Brewster Islands. rine dominated environment. Cor­ with their smooth, tree-covered A seawall on Great Brewster is recom­ morant and gull nesting areas will be slopes. mended to arrest severe erosion oc­ protected during the nesting season Access is provided from the main line Boston-to-Nantasket ferry, which has a stop on Peddock’s Island. An additional small ferry loop provides public access to Bumpkin and Grape Islands and to the proposed recreat­ ional dock in the Weymouth Back River.

"Hangman Island has been grouped with this Sub-System for convenience and mapping requirements, even though it is located in Quincy Bay.

93 88 acres in size) at the east end of the Island to build a mortar battery. In 1900 the site was officially desig­ nated Fort Andrews, in honor of Major General George L. Andrews, who was Professor of Languages at West Point from 1861 to 1895. Two mortar batteries, each composed of eight 12 inch guns, were completed in 1904. Half of the guns were re­ moved in World War I and were never replaced. During the First World War the Fort was garrisoned by the Coast Artillery and 3 and 6 inch rifles were added. During World War II, anti­ aircraft guns and observation sta­ tions were added. The regimental headquarters and a hospital training unit were located on the Island. Over 1000 Italian prisoners of war were held at Fort Andrews during the War. The permanent buildings of Fort Andrews are a considerable man­ made resource. The 6 and 8 coursed brick structures consist of 6 duplexes, 2 single dwellings and one apartment building, all of which were used for The Islands of the Sub-System are Leonard Peddock, arrived in 1622 officers’ quarters; a hospital; three valuable natural resources in them­ with the Weston Company. The Island large barracks; a guard house; a selves and add considerable interest evidently had excellent pasture land to the Bay. Peddock’s Island is the for it is noted that during the Revo­ largest and is composed of several lution, British raiders carried off 30 wooded drumllns. It is owned by the cattle and 500 sheep. After the British MDC and has outstanding recrea­ left the Harbor in 1776, about 600 tional potential. militiamen encamped on the Island The other Islands of Hingham Bay to guard against a return by English provide an interesting variety of en­ soldiers. Ownership of the Island vironments and habitats that define has passed through several families; their value as natural resources. it is now owned by the Metropolitan District Commission. The Island was never divided and sold as small par­ Peddock’s Island cels, although there have been several tenants and farms. In the Description and History 1800’s the Island was a popular sum­ mer resort and several inns were es­ Peddock’s Island consists of five tablished. Around 1880, the Alger drumlins, four of which are connect­ Foundry, in South Boston, main­ ed by long, low sandbars. While its tained a test site for its large guns on land area of 113 acres is not the larg­ Nut Island, using Prince Head as a est of the Harbor Islands, its irregular target. shape gives it the longest shoreline. In 1897 the U.S. Government ac­ The Island’s first English settler, quired the largest drumlins (nearly

94 large quartermaster storehouse; a dense covering of brush and young stable; a gymnasium; an administra­ trees. A Black-Crowned Night Heron tion building; a firehouse and a post rookery was found in apple trees on exchange. In addition to these build­ West Head. While this is not an en­ ings, there were dozens of temporary dangered species, the Massachusetts wooden structures. The officers’ Audubon Society reports that only quarters and most of the temporary two other such rookeries are known structures were badly damaged by to exist in Massachusetts. Hurricane Diane in 1954. The Fort The East Head of Peddock’s Island was placed on caretaker status in supports some of the densest wooded 1947 and sold as surplus property in areas in Boston Harbor, mature and 1958. It was acquired by the MDC in sapling maple, pine, apple, birch, and 1968. cottonwood trees and beautiful vibur­ The sand spit connecting the east num shrubs. Fort Andrews Is situated drumlin and the middle drumlin has in a narrow valley between the two good beaches on both sides. The mid­ wooded drumlins. Mature maple dle drumlin has about 40 old summer trees line the roads with young sap­ cottages and several year round resi­ lings growing on previous grass areas. dences dot this hill. The residents The other drumlin on East Head is have a 10 year renewable lease with predominantly thick impenetrable the MDC. brush, with scattered pine, apple and The West Headof Peddock’s Island, birch trees. The middle drumlin is also a drumlin, is undeveloped with covered with young cottonwood, the exception of a few small cottages. apple and pine trees and thick brush. NOTE: For legend see page 44. There are paths leading through the The sand spits support large clumps

95 of wild roses. A small salt-marsh lies between West Head and the middle drumlin. Prince Head, the fourth drumlin, is a very small peninsula and is severely eroded on all sides. The western end of West Head and the northern end of East Head are severely eroded. Good beaches exist on the sand spit between East Head and the middle drumlin, while the re­ mainder of the shoreline is mostly rocky. Good clam digging exists on the tide flats. The Island is a short distance from Pemberton Point in Hull. Hull Gut, an important shipping channel, with a rapid current, runs between the Is­ land and Hull. Peddock’s Island Plan

The plan for Peddock’s Island empha­ sizes the important man-made re­ source represented by the abandoned buildings of Fort Andrews, and the varied natural resources of the Island, including the beach area for swim­ ming, the wooded area for quiet walks and contemplation of nature, and the natural habitat areas. Other important features include a 3 mile bicycle loop, group camping facil­ ities, playfields, and a small salt- marsh interpretive center. A major program to rehabilitate the brick structures of Fort Andrews will provide a large, multipurpose conference and recreation center.* This facility has the potential of being one of the most complete and attract­ ive centers in New England. The buildings provide spaces that are ideally suited to the requirements of

*An extensive survey was conducted of regional social service agencies, educational or­ ganizations, and universities to determine the local interest in such a facility. The results of this survey are reflected in the proposals and are described in a limited distribution report of support documentation for the Peddock’s Island Plan.

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À . MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES ‘J Î Ï V PEDDOCK’S ISLAND ▲ niap_C Metropolitan Area Planning Council BOSTON HARBOR ISLANDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN such a center. The three barracks pro­ sical recreation center for the Island. all ages. Instruction in arts and crafts, vide excellent dormitory space on the It can also be used for minor theater environmental workshops, an annual upper two floors and meeting, living, presentations, dances, and concerts. arts festival, and a variety of cultural and dining spaces on the first floor. The stable building is reused as a enrichment programs would provide From 350 to 500 persons could be bicycle rental and repair center. A a variety of summertime island ex­ accommodated in these dormitories. fire truck is maintained in the old fire periences for groups of children, The old administration building is station. The largest building on the Is­ families, theelderly, and othergroups ideally suited as an administration land is the Quartermaster Storehouse. or individuals. center for the entire Island, with of­ This building can provide space for a During the Fall, Winter, and Spring fices, small conference rooms, dis­ number of functions including stor­ the Fort Andrews complex offers an play space and an ecology and gen­ age for maintenance equipment, exciting, unique location for confer­ eral reading library for the complex. artists’ studios, offices, and a pos­ ences and conventions. The center The former hospital provides large sible island research field station to would be located in an idyllic natural meeting spaces for the Island’s major be operated by area universities. setting only an hour ferry ride from convention center. A variety of room The major Island Visitor Center for Long Wharf in downtown Boston. sizes can be created by temporary the Hingham Bay Sub-System is lo­ Other areas on the Island are de­ space dividers, to accommodate cated next to the ferry dock, in the re­ signed to emphasize their natural varied group activities. Sufficient cently renovated, former guardhouse. factors and will complement the space for a craft center and studios The building has been logically divid­ multi-purpose center. The thickly for painting, sculpture, ceramics, ed into two parts — a display space­ wooded East Head is maintained as a and metal working is available in the waiting room and an auditorium for high quality natural environment basement of this structure. audio-visual presentations. The wait­ with walking trails for passive enjoy­ A Harbor Island Inn is an addition­ ing room will also serve as a recre­ ment of the outdoors. A rip-rap re­ al feature of the visitor accommoda­ ation and information center for the taining wall is proposed to protect tions of the complex. This Inn, locat­ Island providing maps and descrip­ the Head from erosion. A swimming ed in the large, 2'A story, former tive pamphlets on Peddock’s Island beach and picnic area for 300 people officers’ apartments, provides space and the other Islands in Hingham Bay. is located on the narrow sandy area for a fine dining room, a lounge, 20 Static displays and mural sized pho­ between East Head and the middle double rooms, plus additional attic tos will add visual interest and help drumlin. The picnic area, with fifty dormitory space for 40 beds. This illustrate the Island’s natural environ­ tables and charcoal fireplaces, is in facility provides accommodations on ment. Rest rooms are provided off the wooded area at the western foot the Island that would follow the tra­ this space. The auditorium space is of East Head. The area is serviced with dition of popular inns in the Harbor located in the area once occupied by a bathhouse and comfort station as during the 1800’s. the jail cells. It is used to present well as a refreshment stand. Eight units of rental housing for a general orientation to the Harbor The middle portion of Peddock’s families or special groups are pro­ Islands Park System and more spe­ Island is now occupied by 41 summer vided by the plan in the commis­ cific information on Peddock’s, cottages which have a 10 year lease sioned officers’ quarters. These units Grape, Slate, Bumpkin, Raccoon, from the MDC. Since the plan for East vary in size from 2 to 3 bedrooms, Sarah, Langlee, Ragged, and Button Head includes a number of reno­ with utilities, and would be for week- Islands. The audio-visual presenta­ vated officers’ quarters which would long or weekend use during the peak tion will include histories of the Is­ be available for family rentals season or longer rental periods in the lands and surrounding shoreline, im­ throughout the year, these cottages off-season. Five additional units of portant natural features, and the con­ should be acquired by the MDC as non-commissioned officers’ quarters servation and recreation programs soon as feasible and the area de­ provide accommodations for the year- that exist on each of the Islands in the veloped as a small group camp­ round Island personnel and for extra Sub-System. The office space and ground. Three camp sites are pro­ summer employees. small conference rooms included with vided surrounding a large central A store for the purchase of Harbor other Visitor Centers are located in the playfield and following the natural Island literature, craft materials, gro­ Island Administration Building. topography. Each of these sites is ceries, and other supplies is provided Programs for this Island facility capable of holding approximately 50 in theold post exchange building. The may include a full spectrum of educa­ campers. The three sites are each pro­ gymnasium is used as an indoor phy­ tional and recreational activities for vided with a central shelter for cook-

1 0 0 ing and eating and a comfort station be used by groups of 10-20 campers. provide excellent habitat for wildlife. and bathhouse. Each of these sites is The West Head is the most isolated The dense underbrush and several subdivided into small areas that can end of the Island and was found to small trees, including fruit trees, pro­ vide fine protection and food for a variety of birds. One of the few rook­ FPSTwnt BEAM grrmCTVRE eries of Black-Crowned Night Herons

CAKM»g - $ SUËEITN6 in Massachusetts is located on West DAOS'/ SECTION' / Head and should be protected. The plan for West Head recommends a jecnOM- GAMP AHa-TBP wildlife management area to maintain and attract wildlife. Very few trails are provided in this area as a means of protecting the wildlife and natural Jj------—n habitat. The few trails are designed as self-guided nature trails with inter­ pretive signs to explain the life cycles of the species and the importance of PLAN- GROUP CAMPING Dg’-I'-P' the habitat. Prohibiting the entrance T33------____-_—----_ rL of people to this area may be neces­ sary during the critical mating and nesting periods in March, April and May. The salt-marsh, located between West Head and the middle of Ped- PLA N -CA M P SHELTER W o * dock’s Island, is also maintained as a natural habitat. It has a small inter­ pretive center with descriptive in­ SECTION-- LEAN-TO l/A'-l'-C formation on the ecology of the tidal salt-marsh and a system of trails and floating boardwalks for a self-guided walk to explore the unique environ­ ment.

Bumpkin Island

Description and History

Privately owned Bumpkin Island was the site of a productive farm in colo­ nial times. It was bequeathed to Har­ vard College by Samuel Ward in 1682. Harvard rented the Island farm to various families until 1900, when a wealthy philanthropist, Clarence Burrage, bought rights to the Island and built a hospital. Primarily a facil­ ity for paraplegic children, it was opened in 1902. The hospital, design­ ed with ramps in place of stairs, cared for as many as 145 children and was operated until the outbreak of World War I. In 1917, the Navy made arrange-

1 0 1 merits to use the Island and hospital for the duration of the War.

The Navy had constructed some 57 temporary structures by 1918 and about 1,300 men were stationed on the Island. The site was a training base and medical center. The Burrage Hos­ pital building housed the Navy ad­ ministration offices and sick bay. A large recreation hall and heating plant were also constructed by the Navy. side of the Island. An overgrown con­ After the War, the Navy removed crete road and system of asphalt temporary structures and the hospital walkways lead from the eastern end remained. It was never reopened and of the Island to the hospital ruins. was finally destroyed by fire about 1945. Today substantial remains of The 35 acre Island is a single drum- foundations and walls covera portion lin, similar to the landforms of World’s of the Island. One interesting man­ End. It rises gently to about 70 feet made feature is the ruins of a ro­ above the level of the ocean. The Is­ NOTE: For legend see page 44. mantic stone building on the north land is densely overgrown with

1 0 2 jife BMKN ISLAND PLAN COMPREHENSIVE BUMPKIN ISLANDS HARBOR BOSTON e f i ‘j n a m *1 1 Hi UGH BAY AM - ** :<** e d a m c . : \ c * efo r s j f - c w r i C ' M s ~ o i \ , o h ^ . y , : ;A*. ‘*;V ; ‘.* X

s r o t c a f dense undergrowth. However,mostofthese communities. shapethe drumlin characteristic and oeta ves r bokd y the by blocked are views potential Sunset to almost Island the of east isexposedatlow extendstide, which fall very is brilliant shoreline the Island’sof Most foliage. the to con­ tribute which trees aspen young and ivy,severalandapple poison sumac, Hingham Bay and the surrounding surrounding the and Bay Hingham height its of Because Hull. in Point rocky and the end northwestern of the upi Iln Plan Island Bumpkin sad fes eea fn ves of views fine several offers Island Islandis very eroded. A longsand bar, ie is om n ntrl character. natural and form itssizes Islandempha­ Bumpkin planfor The HT HA FLATS HEAD WHITE mapC Metropolitan Area Planning Connell MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT NATURAL OF RESOURCES rm o mrv te sads land­ Island'sscapequality. the improve to gram and a conservation and planting pro­ planting andandaconservation playfield grass large a Island, the of interpretive sites, camping group small and picnics for areas cleared markers to describe the local history history localthe describe markersto trails, walking gravel dock, boat motn faue icue small a include features Important o h Iln fo te 0 passenger 50 the from Island the to ih avs hles n fireplaces and shelters canvas with erosion. 10-15of designed campers.forgroups fireplaces with hasshelter a site The are markers interpretive and vided ot ad s sd o aiiae Is­ facilitate to maintenance.land used is and boats private and loop ferry Bay Hingham an interesting and historic visual ele­visual historic and interestingan Thearea toilets. chemicaland dining and cooking central useand day for designed for groups of 50-75 campers. interest. of points historic and excellent provide will brushdense of Hingham of views and trails walking for Island the open will planting tree sad o rtc te rmi from drumlin the protect to Island pro­ is wall posedendonof the northwestern the rip-rap stone A ment. retained isas Island the of side north clearings small 4 into subdivided is wildlife Island the describe to used pro­ are trails Walking habitat. bird and ivycontrol poison andgrubbing, er h tp f h duln n is and drumlin the of top the near Bay andshore. the surrounding Areas A small boat dock provides accessprovides dock boat smallA h sal tn bidn o the on building stone small The sal ru cmst i located is campsite group small A porm f eetv clearing selective of program A 103

Grape, Slate and Sheep grapes which grew there in colonial Islands times. The 50 acre Island was granted to the Town of Weymouth by the Grape Island General Court in 1636. It was a favor­ ite haunt of Indians in early days due to good clamming on its western bar. Description and History The Island has yielded pieces of their The privately owned Grape Island stone tomahawks and evidences of was named for the abundance of these clambakes. NOTE: For legend see page 44.

105 The Island is located nearthe mouth 1800’s it was owned by Edwin Clapp early records. Today the Island has of the Weymouth Back Riverand con­ of Weymouth, who deeded the Island eroded to less than 2 acres and is the sists of two drumlins, with a depres­ to the Clapp Memorial Association, a least prominent island in Hingham sion or saddle of land between them. charitable non-profit organization. Bay. It was once known as Round Is­ Slate outcroppings dot the northern The Clapp Association ran a summer land and was deeded to the Town of and southern shore. The west drum I in, camp for about 36 boys on Slate Is­ Weymouth by the General Court in the larger of the two, is more than 70 land from 1937 to 1939, but the camp 1636. feet high. Vegetation consists largely was discontinued due to a lack of Colonial farmers used the Island as of grass covered slopes on the south­ sanitary facilities. a sheep pasture and during the 1800’s western end of the Island, poison ivy, The 12.4 acre Island is located just it was frequently used by camping sumac, and a few scattered trees. Red east of Grape Island.Vegetation on the parties. A residence and hunting lodge raspberries, blackberries and wild Island consists of a variety of wild were built on the Island for use by roses add patches of food and bril­ flowers, a few trees, sumac, and an hunters. liant color in the summer, and the rich especially abundant growth of Today, the tiny Island is a long, nar­ supply of rose hips provide winter poison ivy. The shore of the Island is row, 2 acre sliver of land only a few food for some species of birds. almost completely composed of the feet above sea level. Covered with The northern shore is rocky while dark gray slate sometimes rising to grass and a small variety of brush, it the southern side has several areas of steep cliffs. Tiny slate particles form is constantly being subjected to the gravel beach and small, interesting a pleasant small beach on the south­ forces of erosion. areas of tidal salt-marsh. west corner of the Island.

Slate Island Grape, Slate, and Sheep Sheep Island Islands — Plans Description and History Description and History Grape Island Plan This small privately owned Island is almost wholly composed of slate Sheep Island once covered an area The plan for Grape Island emphasizes ledges that run far out into the water of more than 25 acres, according to its natural character and fine gravel at some points. In 1631, the General Court ordered that no slate could be taken from the Island without permis­ sion; however, a provision of the grant that gave the Island to William Torrey in 1650, allowed that any man would befreetomakeuseoftheslate. The slate, a fine, soft, dark grey rock, probably was formed during the Carboniferous Period and was not suited for use as roofing material. However, tons of slate were quarried and used for cellar walls and under­ pinnings. The quarries, visible today, were located all along the northwest side of the Island where the ships anchored to load the slate. Had the slate been of a better quality, the whole Island might have been quarried. For most of its history, the Island was apparently uninhabited and there is no mention of farming. A hermit is reported to have lived on the Island in the 1800’s. In the late

106 beaches. Important features include a small boat dock, walking trails, cleared areas for picnics and small group camping sites, interpretive markers to describe the local history

c m GRASS of the Island, a large swimming cmC m brush MARSH 9 $ shrubs MARSH GRASS beach and a conservation and plant­ H TR E E S - DECIDUOUS Sü TRees - eveRQRGEW ing program to enhance the Island’s ss» STDMG $ slats ÊÊÊ UTTÇR. landscape. * * ARROWS INDICATE DIRECTION) OF CURRENT 4 An excellent gravel swimming WIUO. CURRENTS ARE A PEER. LOW t HIGH TIDE'S VELOCITIES ARE IN KNOTS « ARE FDR ITE TIME beach exists on the Island’s protected OF SPRING- CURRENTS “ B îW ïS iB irUSES Bta¡fT southeastern side with sufficient ON Ï Ï K “ ” lœ 'CRTCa space for more than 100 bathers. A small boat dock is located on the SUMttjSESUMMER SUW south shore to provide access from HOURSAFTER HIGH oiÆiocn^ING^ T ID E ÿviüwe 22 the Hingham Bay ferry loop and pri­ 2 0.5 A vate boats, and to facilitate Island

AFTER LOW TICE maintenance. APPROXIMATE LINE hours velocity in t e r t id a l 'ZONE Ife 0.5 1 LARGE ROCKS, STONES « VH 03 1 A small group campsite is located MUSSEL SHELLS MAJORITY 5 '« 1.0 MMCRiTY OF ’SJiND IS OF BEACH-...... in the protected area between the two COVERED THICK BRUSH' X rffS fll IARSH GRASS X » sumac, wild roses, bar- tct=-i j^ S m . BERRY, POISON IVY, 1§L£J JEMSKM, -W IL D ROSES RASPBERRY % YOUNG ASPEN------j g g B K B t j small drumlins and is designed for I-Y0UN6OAM BIRCH MAJORITY OF ISLAND COVERED W/THICK BRUSH. groups of from 50-75 campers. The WILP IRlS- : SLATE BLUFF SUMAC, WILD ROSE,BARBERRY YO'UNG ASPEN— V ^ RASPBERRY FOlSDfJ I ^ - T '. iv y 4 YOUNG ASPEN DRUMLIN ELEV, ± 7 0 ‘ \ DRUMLIN E L E V tM site has a shelter with fireplaces for GRASS, SOME BARBERRY, CLEAR VIEW PRE­ SUMAC, TOWNS ASPEN, DOMINANTLY GRASS- day use and central cooking and din­ BIRCH % BOULDERS CLEAR VIEW ----- rRREPLACE REMAINS -WOOD BARGE ing, and chemical toilets. The camp­ STEEP ERODED -SALT MARSH BANK« AREA CP site is subdivided into 3 small clear­ [ WASH-OUT ON NICE SMALL SLATE BEACH- l DRUM LIN------SALT MARSH------ICE SAND« WILD ROSES------Swung ings with 6 canvas shelters and fire­ ^ STONE BEACH r ELMS SLATE QUARRY HOLES - BEER CANS -ATE DÜNE SALT MARSH places designed for smaller groups of ¿ABANDOtfD SWIMMING i „ FLOAT F SLATE ISLAND 12 to 15 campers. V iP 'l GRAPE ISLAND \ ‘—LARGE OAK. '— WORN FOOTPATH A program of selective clearing, -SUMAC 4 POISON IVY BANK ^ WiNTEiR Cum - OP WILD ROSE y Su n r is e poison ivy control and tree planting DECEMBER 22 w in t e r s u w s u n s e t AFTER LOW TIDE A FT E R LOU) T ID E provides walking trails and vistas of HOURS VELOCITY HOURS VELOCITY. I 'ft 0,5 \'H 0.5 Hingham Bay and the surrounding mVft 0.91.0 4 'll O.B o.e> shore from the drumlins. Areas of AFTER HIGH TIDE 5'n HOURS% VELOCITY 0.1 m dense brush provide excellent bird i 0.5 M ■PREVAILING SUMMER WIND-SOUTHWEST habitats. Interpretive markers are T ID A L CURRE recommended on walking trails to de­ AFTER LOW TIDE HOURS VELOCITY scribe the wildlife and the history of the Island. A stone rip-rap wall is proposed on the northwestern end of the Island to protect it from erosion. NATURAL < MAN-MADE FACTORS

GRAPE , SLATE Slate Island Plan and SHEEP ISLANDS MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

IliapC Melmimlilan Ar«a Planning Council BOSTON HARBOR ISLANDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN The plan for Slate Island emphasizes its natural character and history. The Island’s geological interest is de­ scribed by small interpretive markers near the historic quarries and a con-

107 servation program will enhance its natural environment and habitat types. This tiny Island provides a good deal of interest for the amateur na­ turalist and the historian. The quarries can add to the Island’s general inter­ est with descriptive markers telling of the historic quarrying operation and the uses of the slate. A program of selective clearing, poison ivy control and tree planting provides walking trails and viewing areas. Areas of dense brush provide bird habitat. Additional interpretive

HINGHAM BAY markers are provided on walking trails to describe the Island’s history and wildlife.

&P(JE> < C LB A fZ E X IS T IN G SH-lPUe» No dock or other means of public ME&ETATIPNJ R?|C P/f^T WALIilKJ6 TRAILS» - TI?EE PLAMTlMcS» AS access is provided. Several points

GRAPE ISLAND along the shore are suitable for beach­ 6Ki?UP ¿AMPIM6 - (TAMPERS SHELTER i CHEMICAL T2S/LET ing a small boat, but the Island’s size and natural conditions indicate that use of the Island should be limited.

Sheep Island Plan f>WlfMMINJ<& &EACW E5 The plan for Sheep Island makes its SM ALL E*2AT LAKJPIM& - 5 00ATS SLATE ISLAND size the major determinant of its use. CLEA»? PeUMLINJ FzSIS VISTA? The extremely small Island is slowly IMTEKPEETIVE M AKkiEeS - SLATE C>UA P K V W being eroded and the plan provides for limited steps, including erosion control planting, to conserve the re­ maining portion of the Island. No other uses are indicated for the Island. It is a suitable spot for private boaters to visit during the boating season in very limited numbers. The use of the Island should be largely self-limiting as the size and lack of shade do not make the Island attractive for more than short stays by one or two small boats.

MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

mapc Metropolitan Area Planning Council BOSTON HARBOR ISLANDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Hingham Harbor islands

Thefoursmall Islands within Hingham Harbor; Langlee, Ragged, Sarah, and Button, are owned by the Town of Hingham. They are all outcroppings

108 of bedrock covered with underbrush ming. Today the Island is maintained and several trees. Together, these in a natural state by several conserva­ Islands comprise a total of only 10 tion groups in Hingham and is a acres and except for a few small favorite summertime picnic spot for beaches are surrounded by rock ledge weekend boaters. Ragged Island Sarah Island

Description and History Description and History

Rockbound Ragged Island, 3.9 acres Sarah Island is mistakenly referred in size, was the only Island in Hing- to on some charts as Sailor Island, ham Harbor to be inhabited. John but historic records indicate its cor­ Langlee bought several of the Is­ rect name. The 2 acre Island was lands in Hingham Harbor in 1686 and owned by John Langlee at the time of P lived on Ragged Island with his his residence on Ragged Island. The family. It is said that his daughter rocky Island, difficult to approach, won the nickname Ragged Sarah is covered with a few specimens of Langlee for her casual dress and these pine, larch, birch, and small maple names were eventually transferred to trees. Several outcroppings of “pud­ the Islands. A later owner of Ragged ding stone” add to the Island's geo­ Island built a foot bridge to the main­ logical interest. land near Crow Point connecting it with the lavish summer resort de­ Langlee Island veloped there by Samuel Downer in the late 1800’s. The Island was the Description and History site of a restaurant and observation tower about 1880. The many coves Langlee Island is approximately 4 provided protected inlets for swim­ acres in size. It was originally called

1 0 9

Ibrook Island before it was purchased with the other islands, by John Lang- lee in T686. Langlee Island has 2 small sandy beaches and a variety of trees and “pudding stone” cliffs. On a summer weekend it is a favorite picnic spot for boaters. A boat moorage for the Crow Point Yacht Club is located be­ tween Langlee and Sarah Islands. Button Island

Description and History

Button Island is the smallest of the Islands in Hingham Harbor, covering less than 1 acre. It is surrounded by extensive tidal flats and difficult to reach by boat. The very rocky Island is maintained in a natural state by several Hingham conservation groups.

Hingham Harbor Islands Plans

The plans for the Islands of Hingham NATURAL, f MAN MADE FACTORS Harbor emphasize their natural fac­ tors and limited size. The Islands are MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT 01 NATURAE RESOURCES ISLANDS maintained as small natural preserves BOSTON HARBOR ISLANDS COMPRLHtNSiVL PLAN inapc Metropolitan Aies Planning Council for the contemplation of the natural relation of island and bay. No docks are proposed as several coves and beaches are suitable for small boat landings on the Islands. Walking trails are proposed from the landings to various points of interest. Several informal trails already exist, but more clearly defined trails will improve walking access and lessen trail blazing and the resulting damage to the natural environment. An occasional interpretive marker ex­ plains the interesting natural fea­ tures, such as the “pudding stone” formations on Langlee Island. Informal picnicking is an appro­ priate activity for these Islands. Al­ though a trash barrel is recommend­ ed, people are encouraged to remove

1 1 1 m apc Metropolitan Area Planning Council BOSTON HARBOR ISLANDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN their own trash. However, formal sists of three brick buildings, housing facilities such as tables and fireplaces administration offices and pumping would detract from the natural attrac­ facilities, and several huge sedimen­ tiveness of the Islands. tation tanks. A dominant man-made A planting and selective clearing feature is a large, round, silver tank program enhances the natural en­ where methane gas, a by-product of vironment. Dense brush helps to de­ the treatment processus stored for use fine trails and provide wildlife as a power supply for the operation habitat. Trees give needed shade on of the plant. Visits to view the opera­ Sarah Island and ground cover plants, tion of the plant are accommodated such as the hardy legumes, protect and a visitors’ parking lot is provided areas subject to erosion. near the administration building. The Island, now 17 acres in size, Nut, Raccoon, and Hangman is flat and planted in grass. The shore is surrounded by a steep rip-rap wall. Islands Raccoon Island These three small Islands have been grouped for convenience. Nut Island Description and History is largely a man-made peninsula at­ tached to Quincy on the border be­ Privately owned Raccoon Island is a tween Hingham and Quincy Bays. tiny 3 acre bedrock outcropping, ly­ Raccoon Island is located very near ing just off Manet Beach on Hough’s the shore off Quincy’s Hough’s Neck Neck in Quincy. There is little record­ and Hangman Island is located near ed history of activity on this Island. In the center of Quincy Bay just to the the 1930’s a religious organization is east of Peddock’s Island. known to have conducted summer school on the Island. Nut Island The north side of the Island consists of striking bedrock outcroppings Description and History which rise to an elevation of 30 feet above the surrounding bay. Mud Nut Island was once a 4 acre Island flats, gravel beaches and rocky slopes just north of Great Hill on Hough’s provide a wide variety of marine Neck. In colonial times cattle were habitat, which include such interest­ kept on the Island and were driven ing features as small patches of eel- to the mainland over a sandbar at grass. These areas provide protection low tide. A testing site for heavy or­ and nourishment for a variety of dnance was established on the Is­ young sea animals. land in 1876 by the Alger Foundry During the summer youngsters swim of South Boston. Huge 15 inch guns from the Quincy shore to explore the fired projectiles weighing as much as Island. Some hunters use the Island 500 pounds at targets on Prince during duck season. Head, Peddock’s Island. In 1893, the MDC built a road and began enlarg­ ing the Island for a sewage treat­ Hangman Island ment facility, that included a pump­ ing and screening station and a raw Description and History sewage outfall. Today the Island is occupied by a Hangman Island is little more than a modern primary sewage treatment sea-washed reef located far out in plant built in 1950. The plant con­ Quincy Bay. There is little record of

113 the site’s need for screen planting and its potential for a fishing pier. Nut Island helps define the bound­ ary between Quincy and Hingham PREVAILING „ WKltfRTWWE^ IN JT E f? WINJJ Bays and is, therefore, visually im­ portant to the rest of the Harbor. The treatment plant and strong man­ made character of the Island contrast with the natural character of the other Islands and the two Bays. Plant­ ing of trees that are tolerant to both the salt air and chlorine associated with the island location and sewage treatment process will soften the Is­ land’s man-made appearance and re­ duce the contrast between the natural character of the Harbor and the important man-made facility. The construction of a small fishing pier with cleaning facilities, and a slightly enlarged visitors' parking area make the Island a valuable local recreational resource. Visits to the treatment plant are an important educational activity associated with the Island.

Raccoon Island Plan

The plan for Raccoon Island takes its natural environment as the deter­ minant of its use. The Island is main­ tained in its natural condition for quiet contemplation and exploration. NATURAL f MAN-MADE FACTORS No docks are proposed as several coves and beaches are suitable for §>, NUT, RACCOON and WÈ HANGMAN ISLANDS MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES small boat landings and the Island is

mapC Metropolitan Atea Planning Council a short swim from Manet Beach on BOSTON HARBOR ISLANDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Hough’s Neck. Walking trails are pro­ vided from the landings to various points of interest. The clearly de­ fined trails improve walking access the origin of the Island’s name, but dark rock with a small pebble beach and lessen trail blazing and the po­ it is speculated that it comes from on the south side. tential damage to the natural en­ pirate days when the Island was vironment. An occasional interpre­ used for executions. It once covered a tive marker explains the natural much larger area and in 1882 several Nut, Raccoon, and Hangman habitats and other features. fishermen’s huts were reported on Islands Plans Informal picnicking is an appro­ the Island as well as a vegetable gar­ Nut Island Plan priate activity for Raccoon Island. den and other vegetation. Today the However, formal facilities such as 'A acre Island is a barren outcrop of The plan for Nut Island emphasizes tables and fireplaces would detract

114 from the natural attractiveness of the Island. Although a waste barrel is provided, picnickers should be en­ couraged to remove their own litter.

Hangman Island Plan

Hangman Island is one of the small­ est Islands in the Harbor. In its present condition, it serves as a loafing area CÛSJ5 ERVATI

Support Facilities

Introduction

The foregoing plans forthe Harbor Is­ lands have detailed the conservation and recreation uses for each Island. Accordingly, numerous facilities and programs which support those uses have been identified. The following section provides an explanation of these support facilities and pro­ grams. It must be emphasized that this explanation is not a final nor de­ finitive set of recommendations for the Harbor Islands Park. Instead it is a tentative listing of typical facilities and programs that will support the NUT , RACCOON and successful operation of the Park Sys­ HANGMAN ISLANDS MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

mapC Metropolitan Area Planning Council tem. The final and specific detailing BOSTON HARBOR ISLANDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN of these programs and facilities com­ patibility will occur during the imple­ mentation of the plans. These typical facilities have been carefully selected Piers and Floats loading of the large ferry boats, for their compatibility with each operating on the Dorchester Bay Fer­ other and the natural character of the Two general types of piers have been ry Loop and the main line Boston-to- Islands. Final detailing should defined by the Island plans. These in­ Nantasket Ferry “spine”; smaller fer­ achieve an equal or higher degree of clude major ferry landings and minor ry boats; and private boats. With the overall harmony with the Islands’ ferry landings or small boat docks. exception of Spectacle Island all of historic features and natural environ­ Major ferry landings are designed the major proposed ferry landings are ment. to accommodate the docking and un- old, rehabilitated piers or currently

115 wastes are carried to the center of the natural character and use of the Is­ trough and then to a drain largely lands. Access to the beach areas be­ eliminating the objectionable mess low the seawalls should be provided remaining after fish are cleaned. On and the top of the wall or rip-rap docks without running water, a foot berm should accommodate walking operated sea-water pump might be a trails and not block views. feasible alternative. Comfort Stations Seawalls and Revetments Three types of comfort stations have 1/ 1) The building of seawalls and revet­ been identified by the Island plans — Si 05 ELEVATION /t-r-o1 ments has received some attention large comfort station/bathhouse com­ in this report as a means of retarding binations; smaller comfort stations; the natural forces of erosion. Each and chemical toilets. used docks. Spectacle Island requires case of erosion on the Harbor Islands The larger comfort station/bath­ the construction of a new pier. Each is distinct and would require further, house combinations are generally lo­ of the piers needing rehabilitation is more detailed study than that within cated adjacent to the largest swim­ different and, therefore, requires an the scope of this Plan. In several ming beaches or group camping independent study and design. cases the very excellent cut granite sites and consist of two sets of rest rooms, each provided with shower Minor ferry landings are designed seawalls, constructed in the mid- stalls. The size of each facility varies to accommodate the docking and un­ 1800’s are in need of repair. These with the number of persons it is in­ loading of the smaller 50 passenger repairs should be done as soon as tended to serve. Each comfort station/ ferries and private boats. These piers possible or extensive damage to the bathhouse combination is provided represent new construction and a Islands may occur. The plans have in­ with hot and cold running water and typical design is included as an il­ dicated general areas on the major Is­ a septic system or is connected with lustration. The treated timber piers lands where erosion is severe and a larger sewage treatment system. are 10 feet wide with floor planking, protection appears necessary and de­ Comfort stations without bath­ bumper rails, and guard rails also sirable. The selection of these areas houses are provided in several in­ made of timber. has included considerations of the tensively used locations away from Both major and minor ferry land­ size and use of the Island and its large beaches and camping com­ ings are provided with treated wood, value for the total Park System. In all plexes. These facilities consist of two floating boat docks and ramps that cases the benefits have surpassed the sets of rest rooms and are also pro­ rise and fall with the tide. Pre­ costs of providing the protection. vided with running water and sewage constructed units or modules of float­ This is, of course, subject to more disposal systems. ing wood docks provide safe, flexible, rigorous analysis of both the costs attractive, and relatively inexpensive and benefits. The location of the comfort sta­ facilities for small boats and for the The designs of the protective sea­ tions has been based on tentative minorferry landings. A module 9feet, walls should be compatible with the considerations of surficial drainage 6 inches wide and 30 feet long has and topography. Final location will been recommended as being the most depend on further analysis and de­ stable for Boston Harbor conditions. tailed engineering studies of sub­ The Island plans provide floating surface soil drainage. dock space for approximately 365 Chemical flush toilets, attractively boats at a variety of Islands. housed in a specially designed com­ fort station, provide an excellent Fishing piers are combined with all means of providing public sanitation of the ferry landings. Fish cleaning facilities in less intensively used facilities, including running water, areas or in locations that are not suit­ where available, are provided at all able for septic tank construction. fishing piers. The fish cleaning sta­ Public demand for good self-con­ No soA.ue tion consists of a covered trough with tained sanitation facilities, as a way spring-action water spigots. The of reducing pollution problems, has

116 resulted in dramatic changes in the barge would have a water reservoir, quality and efficiency of chemical chemical toilets, and a powergenera- toilets. New self-contained, recircu­ tor, providing good flexibility, mo­ lating, flushing toilets provide a 99% bility, and security. decrease in fresh water requirements because they filter, chemically treat Landscaping and re-use the same water to flush the bowl. Such facilities are currently The plans for the Harbor Islands have being used in many national parks identified several types of landscape and recreation areas. They are at­ treatment, including selective clear­ tractively designed for public use and ing of underbrush, planting for ero­ easy service and maintenance. They sion control, shade tree planting, also provide an excellent interim fa­ screen and windbreak planting, and cility while more permanent comfort planting for wildlife habitat improve­ stations are being constructed. ment. Planting for Erosion Control Other interim facility considera­ It is important to recognize the tions may include the design and unique qualities of the seashore en­ Erosion of the banks on the drumlins placement of special utility barges at vironment offered by the Harbor Is­ of the Harbor Islands is very common. the docks of some islands. Such a lands. The preservation and enhance­ Planting of these banks with certain ment of these special qualities re­ ground covers, grasses or easily root­ quire a sensitivity to this natural re­ ing vines and creeping shrubs, is an source. It affords the people of the important means of helping to pre­ Commonwealth rare opportunities vent this erosion. The plants should for aesthetic, recreational and educa­ be vigorous growing species, which tional experiences. For this reason root along procumbent (trailing on recreational development should be the ground) stems on the surface or accompanied by an active conserva­ with underground stolons or runners. tion management program, emphasiz­ Both types of growth tend to hold the ing a cautious understanding of the soil and keep it from eroding in possible effects on the various inter­ storms. Soil type, soil moisture, steep­ dependent habitats. ness of the bank, and the urgency of stopping erosion all govern the Selective Clearing type of plant selected and the plant­ ing distances to be used. A program of selective clearing of underbrush and thinning of young Shade, Windbreak and Screen saplings is recommended on several Tree Planting islands. Dense sumac, poison ivy, and young saplings have overgrown The plans indicate shade trees in a many islands as part of a natural variety of areas which would be used process of plant succession from for the passive enjoyment of nature, open fields to young and finally ma­ for picnicking sites, for camping sites, ture forests. Some recreational uses, and around buildings and other in­ views, walking trails, and conserva­ tensively used facilities. Deciduous tion management programs justify trees offer the advantage of providing clearing of carefully selected areas of shade during the summer months and brush and trees. Where possible, es­ allowing maximum sun penetration tablished trails should be improved in the winter after the leaves have before disturbing brush areas to build fallen. new trails. In all cases the possible ef­ Trees are also recommended for fects of clearing should be considered windbreaks, especially around open before such changes are made. exposed areas such as playfields, and

117 on the north and northeast sides of HARPWOPP WOoPLoT various facilities. Evergreen trees, COU\FBR tfJINPbKEAK with their relatively dense year-round WOOD 5 P G 5 foliage, provide good windbreaks. A FOOO PLOT- ALFALFA. CLOVER, GRAINS combination of a majority of decidu­ S H ^u b h e p s e i w ous trees planted on the south side of trails and other facilities and a ma­ HhVFIgLP, NESTING COVER, jority of evergreen trees on the north­ LOAFING SPACE, INSECT FOOD ern side can provide the advantages \ t SHKin&s w1 FRUIT of shade in summer, sun in winterand V V V V T * so' wind protection from the harsh north­ 4 O' I o' l O' . 50' (O' erly winds of the winter. Screen trees, mostly evergreens, and other screen plants such as bush shrubs are indicated on the plans for a variety of purposes, including the assurance of privacy, screening un­ attractive facilities, and isolating one use from an adjacent, incompatible use. One picnic table or campsitecan seem relatively private and isolated JÉÉÉ from adjacent facilities by the careful provision of screen planting. A variety MANNaMElU^LBCnOFl of shrubs are also especially at­ Scale r * oo'-o* tractive as a means of softening the * WILDLIFE HAEITAT IMPROVEMENT, DIVISION OF lines of buildings and helping them FISHERIES AND GAME^ MATTHEW CONNOLLY, ETAL. appear more as a part of the Islands’ natural environment. Several vari­ cover plantings that protect such na­ and shrub plantings to provide a eties of shrubs are also desirable for tural food sources as grasses and variety of cover and food. Nesting their contribution to the visual quality grains, are important winter food cover and food for birds can be creat­ of the Harbor. These include flower­ sources. ed by surrounding windbreaks and ing shrubs and varieties selected for Birds and small mammals need screen tree clumps with fruit pro­ their fall foliage. several kinds of cover to conceal ducing shrubs, and loafing space and nests, to provide shade from the hot cover for ground nesting birds can be Planting for Wildlife Habitat sun, to provide shelter from chilling provided by the planting of grasses Improvement rains, to allow escape from enemies, and grains, which will attract insect and to protect against snow, cold and populations creating an additional All wildlife need food and cover. To wind in winter. Grasses, weeds, and source of food for birds. The combina­ adequately support wildlife, there other low growing plants provide mat­ tion of grasses, shrubs, and screen should be a plentiful year-round sup­ ing and roosting areas for some spe­ trees in a confined area creates a ply of food close to cover which fur­ cies; dense or thorny shrubs provide hedgerow between woodland cover nishes protection from predators and protection from predators and spots and field feeding areas. weather. for nesting and loafing; and clumps In addition to plantings, access to Wild fruits, insects, aquatic ani­ of evergreen or other tall dense small bodies of water, marshes, and mals, grains, nuts, and green plants growth provide cover for winter pro­ mud flats is an important element for will generally provide an ample sup­ tection. Selective cutting in a wooded attracting wildlife. Waterfowl and ply of food for some birds and small area allows the penetration of sun­ wading birds are dependent upon mammals from late spring to late fall. light, promoting the growth of suc­ shallow water areas to feed and loaf. Food becomes scarce in winter and culent grasses, shoots and weeds at­ Existing marshes may be improved early spring. Shrubs that keep nuts tractive to some wildlife. by selective planting. The careful and berries into the winter and re­ Open fields can be improved as a dredging of portions of some marshes main above the snow cover, and other wildlife habitat by Increased tree may increase the productivity and

118 variety of plants and animals. Wild­ Interpretive Markers man-made materials, such as metal life areas should be separated by plaques. screen planting and distance from Interpretive centers in natural areas incompatible uses. Birds and other Markers or signs are indicated on on some islands incorporate a wildlife need privacy, especially dur­ many of the Island plans to give in­ shelter with markers, maps and other ing the nesting season. Paths and na­ formation on the history and ecology descriptive information. These ture walks should be close enough to of the Islands. Such markers should shelters are located at the beginning wildlife areas for vantage points but be compatible with their surround­ of several nature walks through wild­ not so close that wildlife will be dis­ ings. On nature trails or in other pre­ life sanctuaries and in other areas turbed.* dominately natural areas markers with special environmental features. should have a rustic appearance and be made of natural materials, includ­ ’ Additional information on landscape treat­ ing stone and wood. Markers on build­ Miscellaneous Facilities ment, including plant materials for seashore conditions, erosion control, and wildlife habi­ ings or in some historic areas might tat improvement is included in the Appendix. appropriately utilize more durable A variety of other facilities including play equipment, picnic equipment, trails, miscellaneous buildings, and paved areas are indicated in the dis­ cussion of the Island plans. That these facilities be of high quality and compatible with the natural charac­ ter of the Islands is of major import­ ance to the overall success of the Harbor Islands Park. Play equipment has been depicted in the plans with an emphasis on the playing child’s drive to experience, by a variety of modes, his physical interaction with his environment. In this educational process the instruc­ tors are color, sound, smell, sight, and a variety of other sense experiences as perceived over space and time. Therefore, a variety of play equip­ ment has been concentrated in spe­ cially designed areas that relate to the sense stimuli which are a part of the island environment and which capitalize on the play activity and imagination. Picnic equipment includes tables, fireplaces, and waste barrels. All of these facilities should emphasize na­ tural materials and colors wherever possible. Fireplaces present a special problem. Wood is very scarce on the Islands and in the late summer and early fall fire is a major danger. Char­ coal grills present a desirable alter­ native. Charcoal could be provided at the various Visitor Centers or car­ ried onto the Islands.

119 Trails are designed not only to de­ crease the unnecessary destruction of underbrush but to take maximum ad­ vantage of the natural topography for easy walking, views, and protection from erosion. All buildings and such paved areas as may be necessary should be lo­ cated and designed to contribute to the quality of the natural environ­ ment and overall operation of the Park System. Low building profiles, screen planting, and maximum use of natural wood and stone, all contribute to the harmony of building and island. TYPICAL SECTION W 0L5ATN9 i DYANAQE e c r A L e i/4"s r-o" Summary of Costs and Priorities* ASPHALTIC CONCRSTS ~ V //////////////////?A ////, WEARING SURFACE Introduction AGGP5&ATB &ASE- 'x C M S H B D S T O N T E The costs and priorities for achieving J\ COMPACTED SU&Qf^APg the recreation and conservation pur­ poses of the Harbor Islands Legisla­ TYPICAL SECTION-EASE DESIGN tion have been developed in conjunc­ SCALE tion with the plans for each Island. Direct capital costs for the construc­ Priorities and Phasing Phases II, 1976-1980, and III, 1981- tion of piers, trails, picnic areas, 1990, equal second and third prior­ small boat docks, landscaping, build­ The expenditure of limited funds for ities, respectively. In several obvious ings, and other facilities for the en­ any project can best be made ac­ cases, work begun in Phase I must joyment and construction of the Is­ cording to a fairly detailed time sche­ be completed before Phase II projects lands’ man-made and natural re­ dule of development that is based on are begun, in other cases Phase II sources total approximately 27 mil­ a system of priorities. While a de­ projects may be started during Phase lion dollars. This figure is derived tailed time schedule aids in ordering I or before certain Phase I projects from a detailed analysis of each Is­ the implementation of a project, flex­ are completed; thus, the dates and land’s plan. However, any cost es­ ibility in many of the work elements divisions between phases are rela­ timates, which are based on large will permit changes when special, un­ tively flexible. scale designs, are necessarily ten­ foreseen opportunities or difficulties tative. They are subject to the more are discovered. Costs* rigorous studies of costs to be con­ Three time periods or phases have ducted during the implementation of been used to schedule costs for the The accompanying information il­ the general plans. Harbor Islands Comprehensive Plan. lustrates the approximate costs per Each of these three phases has recom­ Island that have been determined for mended projects to be started within each phase. certain specific time periods. How­ ever, the schedule is not intended to be a strict year-by-year listing of work to be completed. Instead the three phases indicate levels of pri­ *A more complete presentation of the means •NOTE: More detailed information on phasing of developing costs for each Island plan Is in­ ority. Phase I, 1972-1975, corres­ and costs of Island development is presented cluded in the Appendix. ponds to projects of the first priority, in the Appendix.

1 2 0 ISLAND PHASE areas. The Department of the In­ terior, Bureau of Outdoor Recreation also provides 50-50 matching funds 1 II III TOTAL for open space and park develop­ ment. The Bureau of Outdoor Recrea­ tion’s program allocates money from Boston Long Wharf $ 1,127,000 $ 1,127,000 the Land and Water Conservation Bumpkin 50,900 $ 145,300 $ 171,000 367,200 Fund. This program is the principal Calf 5,900 48,800 80,500 135,200 federal source of funds for acquisi­ Castle 494,300 1,133,000 1,163,400 2,790,700 tion and improvement of park areas. Deer 786,400 857,400 124,900 1,768,700 The Massachusetts Department of Gallop's 657,300 696,900 — 1,354,200 Natural Resources works closely with George's 741,300 1,298,800 848,900 2,889,000 the Bureau of Outdoor Recreation Grape 41,900 76,300 129,300 247,500 and has received federal funding ap­ Great Brewster 108,800 208,700 40,200 357,700 proval of 50% of the costs of the Hingham Harbor Is. 24,900 — — 24,900 preparation of this Plan, contingent Long 2,488,400 1,184,600 3,212,500 6,885,500 upon development progress within Lovell’s 361,400 362,600 109,900 833,900 one year of the completion of the Middle Brewster 1,800 41,700 40,300 83,800 report. The federal support already Moon 232,300 94,500 — 326,800 offered the Harbor Islands Park in­ Nantasket-Hull 243,800 — — 243,800 dicates further participation in the Nut 23,000 107,000 — 130,000 development of one of the nation’s Outer Brewster 52,400 145,700 — 198,100 most unusual recreational oppor­ Peddock’s 2,372,100 1,509,800 365,700 4,247,600 tunities. Raccoon 4,250 — — 4,250 Legislation has been submitted in the U.S.Senate to provide funding for Rainsford 11,900 107,600 - 119,500 Slate — 28,300 — 28,300 a study to establish a Boston Harbor Spectacle 128,300 229,900 591,800 950,000 National Recreation Area. And con­ Thompson 350,600 326,600 242,000 919,200 siderable interest in furthering the State’s efforts to create a Harbor Is­ TOTAL' $10,308,950 $8,603,500 $7,120,400 $26,032,850 lands Park System has been express­ ed by the Commonwealth’s Senate NOTE: This total does not include acquisition of and House of Representatives. Addi­ the privately-owned Islands. tional federal participation, especial­ ly in the restoration of the Harbor’s Sources of Funds Special Authority Revenues historic forts, will greatly aid the en­ Local Appropriations joyment of this unique environment Chapter 742 of the Acts of 1970 Private Institutions and Associa­ by the residents and visitors to the authorized and directed the Depart­ tions Boston Metropolitan Area. ment of Natural Resources to expend Private Funds The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers up to 3.5 million dollars for the Two Federal programs are especially undertakes work to improve navigable acquisition and development of the important for Harbor Islands develop­ waterways and to control shore ero­ Harbor Islands. A wide range of other ment. One, the Open Space Land Pro­ sion. The National Shoreline Study sources of funding must be sought to gram, administered by the Depart­ for the North Atlantic Region was supplement the total development ment of Housing and Urban De­ completed by the Army Corps in 1971. budget. Basic sources of funds in­ velopment, provides 50-50 matching This report cited the Islands of Boston clude: funds for new parks. High priority is Harbor as important factors in con­ given improvements to land already tributing to the protection of the Federal Appropriations in public ownership and a portion of mainland shoreline from erosion, and Federal Grants-in-Aid the funds have been designated to also indicated that the Islands ex­ Additional State Appropriations aid state governments to develop perience serious erosion along their State Grants-in-Aid parks that would serve built-up exposed faces. The identification of

1 2 1 the importance of these Islands for a potentially important supplement and educational activities. The sail­ mainland protection as well as their to the creation of recreational oppor­ ing program on the Charles River is recreational importance establishes tunities on Boston Harbor and its an outstanding local example. the need for additional study by the shores. Use of fuel tax funds by the Army Corps and fund approprations Public Access Board for the construc­ Vocational workers and a variety of for erosion control by Congress. tion of boat launching sites and other public service projects have already Other approaches and innovations in access points is an additional source contributed substantially to the im­ project design for marina construc­ of money for Harbor recreational de­ provement of the Harbor Islands. The tion and beach stabilization could ex­ velopment. Sierra Club, the MDC, the City of pand the effectiveness and use­ Local appropriations by the cities Boston, Save Our Shores and a vari­ fulness of the Corps’ work in the de­ and towns, supplemented by federal ety of other groups have sponsored velopment of the Harbor Islands Park and state grants-in-aid for conserva­ or participated in programs to clean System. tion commissions, provide supple­ up and otherwise improve the Islands. Many of the programs currently ad­ mentary funds for some Islands. The Continued efforts by private indivi­ ministered by the Massachusetts De­ combination of federal and state duals and groups, in conjunction with partment of Natural Resources com­ grants provide 75% funding of open public agencies, will be an important plement the plans for the Harbor Is­ space projects which are supported means of improving the Harbor en­ lands. Certain state programs pertain­ by 25% local appropriations. Such vironment. Such projects should have ing to the protection of coastal wet­ cooperation of various levels of gov­ adequate support and supervision to lands, and for the management of ernment has provided important guarantee their success and con­ fisheries and other marine resources, open spaces for many communities formance with the plans for the even­ are directly related to many of the and has special significance for the tual conservation and recreation uses recommendations in the Island plans. conservation and recreational use of of the Islands. Grants-in-aid are available to local the municipally-owned Islands of conservation commissions for up to Boston Harbor. 50% of the non-federal share of an Private investment must also be en­ The utilization of inmates from the open space project under the provi­ couraged in support of public facil­ state’s correctional institutions for sions of the Department’s “Self-Help” ities on the shoreline and in the Har­ the purpose of working in conserva­ program. These grants have been ex­ bor. Private entrepreneurs have be­ tion and landscape beautification has tremely effective supplements to the gun to invest capital along the Boston a history of more than 20 years in federal grant program and have po­ waterfront in conjunction with Massachusetts. In 1952, the first tentially important applications on publicly planned improvements. Ad­ forestry prison camp was jointly be­ the Islands, especially those owned ditional private support for Harbor gun by the Department of Correc­ by the cities and towns that border Island-related facilities may be en­ tions and the Department of Natural the Harbor. couraged by these events. Certainly, Resources in the Myles Standish Additional state appropriations many of the publicly-owned facilities State Forest. At the outset, the may be sought by the Metropolitan on the Islands provide opportunities forestry camp program served two District Commission, the Department for private operators of carefully con­ important purposes. It provided the of Natural Resources and other state trolled concessions. Department of Natural Resources agencies to support and complement A survey of both private and public with a supplementary work force, the development of the Harbor Is­ service and education groups in­ which has resulted in enormous sav­ lands Park. The bulk of such supple­ dicated that extensive, area-wide ings to the Commonwealth because mentary funding will come from spe­ interest in facilities planned for the of the many reforestation and recrea­ cial bond issues to be approved by Harbor Islands already exists. The tion-related projects undertaken by the General Court. potential of these groups financially inmate labor. It has provided impor­ The Massachusetts Port Authority supporting Harbor Island develop­ tant job training and pre-parole as­ has provided funds from its revenues ment appears substantial. Private, sistance to inmates about to be re­ for park development in East Boston. non-profit groups have worked suc­ turned to society. The Boston anti­ The utilization of such revenues for cessfully with the MDC and other poverty agency, Action for Boston improving waterfront property owned agencies to provide numerous ex­ Community Development, in con­ by the Port Authority and for other amples of programs that support or junction with the Massachusetts De­ support of the Harbor Islands Park is supplement a variety of recreational partment of Corrections, has de-

1 2 2 Economic Benefits of Island Recreation veloped a proposal for a “Regional Correction Center,” which would es­ tablish a pilot program for the Boston Number of Annual Harbor Islands based upon the forest­ Island and Recreation Days Value/Day* Annual Value Type of Activity (Estimate) (Estimate) (Estimate) ry camp experience. Inmates would be given job training and vocational Bumpkin (Maximum Daily Use — 100 Persons) guidance while working on a variety Group Camping 2,000 $4.00 $ 8,000 of construction and conservation pro­ Swimming 6,000 3.00 18,000 jects on the Harbor Islands. Picnicking 6,000 2.00 12,000 Hiking, Nature Walks, etc. 2,000 2.00 4,000 Boating 300 6.00 1,800 Benefits $43,800 No discussion of the costs of a large Button (Maximum Daily Use-- 10 Persons) Swimming 100 $3.00 $ 300 recreation and conservation program Picnicking 100 2.00 200 would be complete without some Hiking, Nature mention of the benefits to be derived Walks, etc. 50 2.00 100 from the expenditure. It must be ad­ $ 600 mitted from the outset that the Calf (Maximum Daily Use — 50 Persons) means of estimating economic bene­ Primitive Camping 400 $6.00 $ 2,400 fits of such intangible activities as Picnicking 1,000 3.00 3,000 recreation and the enjoyment of the Boating 300 6.00 1,800 natural environment are relatively Hiking, Nature Walks 1,000 3.00 3,000 $10,200 crude. However, a recent report* by Castle (Maximum Daily Use - - 2,000 Persons) the Federal Water Resources Council Historic Fort Visitation 100,000 $5.00 $500,000 Swimming 70,000 2.00 140,000 has provided a number of economic Fishing 10,000 2.00 20,000 evaluations for water-related recrea­ Picnicking 4,000 2.00 8,000 tion activities. These evaluations Boating 3,000 3.00 9,000 have been based upon a variety of ap­ Hiking, Nature Walks 10,000 2.00 20,000 proaches which measure the hypo­ $697,000 thetical willingness of the consumer Deer (Maximum Daily Use — 1,000 Persons) to pay for recreational activities. Swimming 20,000 $2.00 $ 40,000 They are expressed in terms of unit Play 40,000 2.00 80,000 Fishing 10,000 2.00 20,000 values for a typical outdoor recrea­ Picnicking 20,000 2.00 40,000 tion day. The Island plans and trans­ Boating 10,000 6.00 60,000 portation services have been de­ Hiking, Nature Walks 20,000 2.00 40,000 signed to allow estimation of num­ $280,000 bers of recreation days for each is­ Gallop's (Maximum Daily Use — 300 Persons) land activity. The accompanying Swimming 5,000 $3.00 $15,000 chart presents the Island-by-lsland Play 5,000 2.50 12,500 Fishing 2,000 3.00 6,000 estimates of annual economic bene­ Picnicking 10,000 2.50 25,000 fits based upon the type of recreation Boating 6,000 6.00 36,000 activity. Hiking, Nature Walks 2,500 2.00 5,000 $99,500

George's (Maximum Daily Use — 1,500 Persons) Historic Fort Visitation 100,000 $6.00 $600,000 Swimming 5,000 2.00 10,000 Fishing 2,000 3.00 6,000 Picnicking 5,000 2.00 10,000 Boating 10,000 6.00 60,000 Hiking 10,000 2.00 20,000 ‘ Federal Water Resources Council, “Standards $706,000 for Planning Water and Land Resources,” July, continued 1970.

123 It must be noted that the above Economic Benefits of Island Recreation evaluation does not include many of the important, but more difficult to assess values associated with the Number of Annual Island and Recreation Days Value/Day* Annual Value plans. For example, it does not in­ Type of Activity (Estimate) (Estimate) (Estimate) clude the economic value of conserv­ ing the various salt-marshes or the economic effect of a recreation day on the productivity of the person who Grape (Maximum Daily Use — 100 Persons) Group Camping 2,000 $4.00 $ 8,000 is recreating. While these factors are Swimming 6,000 3.00 18,000 more difficult to evaluate they are Picnicking 6,000 2.00 12,000 just as important and sometimes Boating 300 6.00 1,800 more so than the data presented. Hiking, Nature Walks 2,000 2.00 4,000 $43,800

Administration Great Brewster (Maximum Daily Use — 150 Persons) Historic Fort Visitation 10,000 $4.00 $40,000 Introduction Picnicking 5,000 2.00 10,000 Hiking, Nature Walks, etc. 10,000 3.00 30,000 The costs and administration of the $80,000 Harbor Islands Park System are the two most difficult areas to discuss Green adequately. It is hard to discuss costs Conservation — No visitation because there are so many potential Hangman sources of funds and possibilities for Conservation — No visitation changing estimates of project costs as the specific details of each step Langlee (Maximum Dally Use — 20 Persons) Swimming 500 $3.00 $1,500 are further defined in the process of Picnicking 300 2.00 600 implementation. Administration is a Hiking, Nature difficult subject because of the Walks, etc. 200 2.00 400 variety of owners and other respon­ $2,500 sibilities in the Harbor. Little Calf In 1967 the MAPC stated in Vol­ Conservation — No visitation ume Two of its Open Space and Rec­ reation Plan and Program for Metro­ Long — Phase 3 (Maximum Daily Use — 3,000 Persons) politan Boston that: Historic Fort Visitation 75,000 $5.00 $375,000 Play 150,000 3.00 450,000 “The most crippling problem in the Fishing 20,000 2.00 40,000 Harbor today is the lack of clear Picnicking 100,000 2.00 200,000 agency responsibility for the wise Group Camping 20,000 4.00 80,000 use and development of resources. Swimming 100,000 3.00 300,000 There are some thirteen state and Hiking, Nature Walks, etc. 50,000 2.00 100,000 federal agencies with some type of Boating 25,000 6.00 150,000 responsibility or control over the $1,695,000 Harbor and each local community has half a dozen or more boards or Lovell's (Maximum Daily Use — 300 Persons) Family Camping 6,000 $5.00 $30,000 departments with local juris­ Play 10,000 2.00 20,000 diction.” p.53 Swimming 20,000 3.00 60,000 Today, the responsibility for the Historic Fort Visitation 10,000 4.00 40,000 wise use of the resources of the Har­ Boating 5,000 6.00 30,000 bor Islands has been clearly placed Picnicking 5,000 2.00 10,000 Hiking, Nature with one agency, the Massachusetts Walks, etc. 10,000 2.00 20,000 Department of Natural Resources. $210,000

124 Economie Benefits of Island Recreation Chapter 742 of the Acts of 1970 pro­ vided, “...that in, under or bordering Boston Harbor there shall be no ac­ Number of Annual quisition of land by any public agency Island and Recreation Days Value/Day* Annual Value Type of Activity (Estimate) (Estimate) (Estimate) . . . without the approval of the ac­ quiring agency (DNR), and no public land on or bordering said area may be sold, leased or used as a dump or Middle Brewster (Maximum Daily Use — 50 Persons) Primitive Camping 400 $6.00 $ 2,400 refuse disposal area, and no sand, Picnicking 1,000 3.00 3,000 gravel or soil may be removed there­ Boating 300 6.00 1,800 from or deposited thereon, and no Hiking, Nature structure may be built thereon with­ Walks, etc. 1,000 3.00 3,000 $10,200 out the approval of the acquiring agency” (Section 8). Moon (Maximum Daily Use — 500 Persons) Now the Department of Natural Re­ Picnicking 10,000 $2.00 $ 20,000 sources has sufficient legislative Fishing 10,000 2.00 20,000 power and control to pursue the con­ Fish Hatchery Visitation 10,000 3.00 30,000 Hiking, Nature servation and recreation purposes Walks, etc. 30,000 2.00 60,000 outlined in this Comprehensive Plan. $130,000 Few regions of the nation have been Nut Island (Maximum Daily Use — 50 Persons) able to so positively assure the proper Fishing 10,000 $3.00 $30,000 use of its waterfront areas. The Har­ bor Islands Legislation is an impor­ Outer Brewster) Maxi mum Daily Use — 50 Persons) tant first step toward untangling the Primitive Camping 400 $6.00 $ 2,400 Picnicking 1,000 3.00 3,000 web of responsibility that once ex­ Boating 300 6.00 1,800 isted in the Harbor. Hiking, Nature Walks, etc. 1,000 3.00 3,000 $40,200 Island Administration

Peddock's (Maximum Daily Use — 1,500 Persons) Conference and Recrea­ The administration and operation of tion Center 130,000 $7.00 $ 910,000 the Harbor Islands Park System is Play 10,000 2.00 20,000 clearly placed with the Massachusetts Swimming 30,000 3.00 90,000 Department of Natural Resources. Historic Fort Visitation 10,000 4.00 40,000 Picnicking 10,000 2.00 20,000 Other important participants in the Group Camping 10,000 4.00 40,000 operation of the Park System include Boating 10,000 6.00 60,000 the Metropolitan District Commis­ Hiking, Nature sion, the cities and towns surround­ Walks, etc. 20,000 2.00 40,000 ing the Harbor, and a variety of other $1,220,000 public agencies and private groups. Raccoon (Maximum Daily Use — 20 Persons) Swimming 500 $3.00 $1,500 Many of the details of operation and Picnicking 300 2.00 600 administration will have to be deter­ Hiking, Nature mined by the Department of Natural Walks, etc. 200 2.00 400 Resources through a process of co­ $2,500 operation with the various respon­ Ragged (Maximum Daily Use -- 20 Persons) sible agencies and groups. The follow­ Swimming 500 $3.00 $1,500 Picnicking 300 2.00 600 ing description will tentatively dis­ Hiking, Nature cuss the administration of each Is­ Walks, etc. 200 2.00 400 land. These considerations are based $2,500 on numerous conferences with the parties involved and represent a gen­ continued eral consensus of island administra-

125 tion that may be further detailed Economic Benefits of Island Recreation and modified by inter-agency agree­ ments. Number of Annual Island and Recreation Days Value/Day* Annual Value BOSTON — LONG WHARF Type of Activity (Estimate) (Estimate) (Estimate) The Department of Natural Re­ sources by appropriate long-term lease from the Boston Redevelop­ Rainsford (Maximum Daily Use — 40 Persons) ment Authority will arrange for the Swimming 2,000 $3.00 $6,000 construction and operation of the Picnicking 3,000 2.00 6,000 Boston Waterfront Central Ferry Boating 300 6.00 1,800 Terminal on Long Wharf. The ter­ Hiking, Nature Walks, etc. 2,000 2.00 4,000 minal building would consist of a $17,800 Harbor Islands Park Information Cen­ ter, ticketing facilities, an indoor pas­ Sarah (Maximum Daily Use — 20 Persons) senger holding area for approximate­ Swimming 500 $3.00 $1,500 Picnicking 300 2,00 600 ly 700 persons and a small restaurant. Hiking, Nature Two ticketing stations, separated Walks, etc. 200 2.00 400 from the passenger holding area, will $2,500 speed the ticketing process. The Har­ bor Islands Park Information Center Sheep should include maps and photos of Conservation — No Visitation the Harbor Islands along with informa­ tion on the ferry routes and schedules Slate (Maximum Daily Use — 20 Persons) and on the recreation and conserva­ Picnicking 300 $2.00 $ 600 Swimming 200 3.00 600 tion programs on the Islands. Res­ Hiking, Nature taurant facilities providing short or­ Walks, etc. 500 2.00 1,000 der meals, box lunches and beverages $2,200 could be operated by a separate con­ Spectacle (Maximum Dally Use — 400 Persons) cessionaire. Picnicking 5,000 $2.00 $10,000 Play 5,000 2.00 10,000 DEER ISLAND Swimming 5,000 3.00 15,000 The Metropolitan District Commis­ Boating 40,000 6.00 240,000 Hiking, Nature sion should develop and maintain Walks, etc. 10,000 2.00 20,000 Deer Island in accordance with the $295,000 recommendations of the Comprehen­ sive Plan and in agreement with the Thompson (Maximum Daily Use — 800 Persons) Department of Natural Resources. Model Farm Visitation 70,000 $2.00 $140,000 The ferry dock on Deer Island should Swimming 30,000 3.00 90,000 be developed by an appropriate inter­ Picnicking 10,000 2.00 20,000 Boating 500 6.00 3,000 agency agreement between the MDC Hiking, Nature and DNR with financial support pro­ Walks 40,000 2.00 80,000 vided by the funds made available $333,000 from the Harbor Islands Legislation. TOTAL $6,004,300 LONG, MOON, AND RAINSFORD ISLANDS The Department of Natural Resources should take the major role in develop­ *The values in the Water Resources Council Document are presented within ranges under two categories, one for “general” recreation days and one for "specialized” recreation days. ing the facilities at Long, Moon, and Because of the uniqueness of the Boston Harbor Islands general recreation values have been Rainsford Islands. The City of Boston slightly increased depending on island uniqueness, a specific value, rather than a range, was has expressed their continued inter- assigned to each activity.

126 est in these Islands, but lack the fi­ recreation and conservation pur­ sion. The plan for Peddock’s Island nancial capability for initiating major poses, if properly worded, would pro­ proposes a major program of much construction projects. Therefore, ap­ vide permanent protection of the Is­ needed conference, recreation, and propriate inter-agency agreements in­ land’s natural resources. The Depart­ conservation facilities. Overall ad­ volving lease arrangements and finan­ ment of Natural Resources will ar­ ministration and maintenance will cial support should be developed be­ range for the development of facili­ be the responsibility of MDC. A variety tween the City and DNR. ties and conservation programs on of private and nonprofit organiza­ Long Island provides the logical the Island in accordance with the tions and private concessionaires base for access to the Islands for DNR Comprehensive Plan and administer may participate in the operation of the maintenance and operating per­ and maintain those programs. various facilities with limits and regu­ sonnel. The Island, located near the lations established jointly by the center of the Harbor, has mainland LOVELL’S, GALLOP’S, AND MDC and DNR. The Department of access and the highest level of ferry GEORGE’S ISLANDS Natural Resources will provide tech­ service of any Island in the Harbor. These three Islands compose a logical nical and management expertise for Adequate storage space for mainten­ grouping for development, mainten­ the wildlife sanctuary by joint agree­ ance equipment, supplies and a work­ ance, and administration by the ment with the MDC, while financial shop is available in the remaining Metropolitan District Commission. support for facility development will military structures at Long Island The MDC currently owns Lovell’s be sought from the whole range of Head. and George’s Islands and have ex­ available sources. Initial financial pressed considerable interest in ac­ support should be provided by the SPECTACLE ISLAND quiring Gallop’s Island. An inter­ Department of Natural Resources by A portion of Spectacle Island is cur­ agency agreement between the MDC an appropriate inter-agency agree­ rently privately owned, while the re­ and the Department of Natural Re­ ment. mainder is owned by the City of sources for the acquisition of Gallop’s Boston. Due to the nature of the spe­ Island and for the development and BUMPKIN ISLAND cial problems of reclaiming the gar­ operation of the Islands will provide The acquisition, development and ad­ bage dump and developing it for rec­ a coordinated and complementary rec­ ministration of Bumpkin Island will reational purposes, the Island should reation complex. Maximum federal be the responsibility of the Depart­ be owned by a single agency. The De­ participation will be sought for the ment of Natural Resources. Group partment of Natural Resources important restoration of historic Fort campsite reservations may be should take the major role in the Warren. managed by DNR at the ferry ter­ development of Spectacle Island. minals in Boston and Nantasket. Ad­ While the City of Boston has an inter­ THE BREWSTER ISLANDS ditional administration and manage­ est in the future of Spectacle Island, The Islands that compose this group ment of the Island may be provided it currently lacks the financial re­ should be acquired, improved, and by general DNR island personnel and sources to undertake major island managed as a conservation area by by MDC personnel from Peddock’s construction projects. Appropriate the Department of Natural Resources. Island under an appropriate inter­ inter-agency agreements involving The reservation of primitive camp­ agency agreement. lease or transfer arrangements and fi­ sites, and a portion of their adminis­ nancial support should be developed tration, can be managed by DNR GRAPE, SLATE AND SHEEP between the City and DNR. from the ticketing facility in the ferry ISLANDS terminals at Boston and Nantasket. These three Islands will be acquired, THOMPSON ISLAND Additional administration of the developed and administered by the Thompson Island is currently owned campsites and Island programs can Department of Natural Resources. by the Trustees of Thompson be achieved by general island DNR Group campsite reservations on Academy. The Department of Natural personnel and by MDC personnel Grape Island may be managed by Resources should acquire easements from George’s Island by an appro­ DNR at the ferry terminals in Boston or lease the rights to those portions priate inter-agency agreement. and Nantasket. Additional adminis­ of the Island that are necessary for tration and management of the Is­ the implementation of the Compre­ PEDDOCK’S ISLAND lands may be provided by general hensive Plan. The purchase of the de­ This Island is owned and operated DNR island personnel and supple­ velopment rights or an easement for by the Metropolitan District Commis­ mented by MDC personnel from Ped-

127 dock’s Island under an appropriate improve it to meet the needs of the serious emergencies. In addition each inter-agency agreement. Park System. Reconstruction of the first aid station should have a full pier and the construction of a small supply of first aid equipment, includ­ HINGHAM HARBOR ISLANDS ticketing station with an Islands Park ing stretchers and oxygen. The Islands of Hingham Harbor, Rag­ Information Center and small pas­ Radio and telephone communica­ ged, Sarah, Langlee, and Button, are senger waiting room will complete tion with Coast Guard and police owned and managed by the Hingham the terminal at Nantasket. boats and helicopters will be a ma­ Conservation Commission. The Con­ There remain a number of impor­ jor element in the ability to respond servation Commission and various tant aspects of the administration of immediately to the more serious groups in the Town have demon­ the Boston Harbor Islands that may emergencies that may occur. The per­ strated their interest in continuing to be discussed jointly rather than is- sonnel for each first aid station administer these Islands. Manage­ land-by-island. These include con­ should be highly skilled in first aid ment and technical expertise may be siderations of safety, fees for island and may assume other duties so long provided the Commission by the De­ and facility use, and stranded island as they do not preclude their ability partment of Natural Resources. Such users as a result of lack of transpor­ to respond to an emergency. improvements as are consistent with tation due to fog, weather, or missed The island caches for first aid the provisions of the Comprehensive boat. should be contained in waterproof Plan may be financed jointly by the boxes on each of the island piers or Town and State, with available fed­ SAFETY in minor island interpretive shelters eral participation. The range of activities and the num­ provided on a number of islands. ber of persons participating in the These caches should contain basic NUT ISLAND activities that will occur on the Boston first aid supplies, including stretchers, This island is owned and administered Harbor Islands requires some con­ splints, etc. National forests and by the Metropolitan District Commis­ sideration of the aspects of safety, other state and national parks have sion. A continuing program of ad­ first aid, and emergencies. The fol­ used similar caches and may provide ministration and management by the lowing discusses facilities for emer­ valuable experience for their design MDC will provideforthe maintenance gency and first aid stations, including and provisions. of the treatment facility and for limit­ their location, design and provisions. ed recreational use of the Island in ac­ Complete first aid stations and FEES cordance with the Comprehensive trained personnel should be located Probable fees for ferry transportation Plan. at or near each of the three Visitor to and from the Islands have already Centers and identified by the proper been discussed in the section on RACCOON ISLAND international first aid symbol. These transportation. The projected fees for The Department of Natural Resources stations should be operated on a 24- transportation did not include any will acquire Raccoon Island and pro­ hour basis. Temporary first aid caches consideration of other fees and costs vide such improvements as are con­ and signal devices, such as emer­ for island or special facility uses. An sistent with the provisions of the gency flags and flares, should be lo­ average round trip fee of $1.50 per Comprehensive Plan. cated on the piers of all the other Is­ person for ferry transportation to any lands. Island on the Dorchester Bay Loop HANGMAN ISLAND The complete first aid stations or on the Boston-to-Nantasket The Department of Natural Re­ should be separated from other ac­ “spine” proved to be economically sources will acquire and manage tivities in the Visitor Centers, in a feasible. Existing state parks in the Hangman Island as a conservation separate room with running water Commonwealth currently charge a area. and toilet. These stations should be $.25 adult and $.15 child walk-in fee stocked with provisions and space to and a one dollar parking fee for each accommodate approximately 6 or vehicle. NANTASKET PIER more persons suffering from such In order to minimize the adminis­ The pier at Nantasket Beach is owned minor complaints as sun exposure, trative problems and provide a park by the Town of Hull. In a man­ abrasion, dizziness, etc. Each sta­ facility that responds to the intense ner similar to Boston’s Long Wharf, tion should have at least one bed or demands of the metropolitan area, the Department of Natural Resources bench which can be shielded from the fees for transportation and island will lease the pier from the Town and view by a movable screen for more use should be collected jointly. A

1 2 8 general fee of $2.00 per adult and high level of ferry service, and good cluded in this consideration was an $1.25 per child should be adequate management required forthe success analysis of the administration of the to cover both transportation to and of the overall plan, frequent trips to system. from the Islands on the major ferry each Island on a detailed schedule routes and the walk-in fees normally is a major feature of both the access charged at state parks. This fee to the Islands and insurance against PUBLIC VERSUS PRIVATE would include access to Visitor Cen­ stranded island users. Ticketing pro­ OPERATION ters and all natural areas, including cedures should be so designed as to Any discussion of the operation of the play fields, fishing piers, and infor­ allow immediate checks on the des­ Harbor Islands ferry system must be­ mal swimming and picnic areas. Such tinations, arrivals and departures of gin with recognition that certain as­ special or intensive facilities as the all island users. However, even the pects of the service must be under the Model Farm on Thompson Island, best managed transportation system control of an appropriate public intensive recreation facilities on Long will encounter problems. Foul authority. In order to assure that the Island, guided tours of historic forts weather, channel congestion, fog, Islands are adequately served, it will and special natural environments, in­ and missed boats could all result in a be necessary to control the frequency tensive swimming and picnic areas, person or persons being temporarily of service, routes, and fares. If the camping sites, and facilities at the stranded on one of the Islands. transportation system is to encourage conference recreation center on Ped- Weather is a consideration during rather than inhibit usage of the island dock’s Island may require a variety of severe storms, which are generally facilities, these three factors must be additional user fees, depending on predictable. As a severe storm ap­ publicly controlled. each facility.* Special group rates proaches, an emergency circuit of The alternatives for the degree of and free use of facilities during off- the ferry loops could be made with public participation in the operation peak periods of island use will do ample time to get people off the Is­ of the ferry service include: much to meet the recreational needs lands. Channel congestion is another 1. Public control of routes, level of the area, especially the needs of the problem that may cause temporary of service and fares, with complete densely developed core cities. modifications of time schedule for re­ ownership and operation of the Special low commuter fees for per­ routing ferry boats. In no case should ferry system by a private operator. sons using the ferry system for non- congestion in any of the Harbor’s 2. Public control of routes, level recreational purposes should be en­ channels cause long delays. Fog, like of service and fares, with a com­ couraged. This is an especially com­ storms may partially or temporarily bined public and private operation. plementary use of the ferry system, curtail the operation of the ferry sys­ 3. Public control of routes, level since it will provide much needed tem. Fog is also fairly predictable and of service and fares, with a com­ transportation for commuters at no a procedure similar to the storm emer­ plete ownership and operation by additional cost to the operation of the gency circuits could be used to get a public authority. Park System. Also, the peak com­ people off the Islands if ferry service Each of these alternatives was e- muter use will not coincide with peak was about to be interrupted. Still, valuated on a variety of criteria, in­ recreational use of the ferry system, even with all reasonable precautions, cluding existing management cap­ resulting in a more even distribution some people may be temporarily abilities, union and labor considera­ of ferry patronage. stranded. In such cases the stranded tions, seasonal usage, and capital in­ island users may resort to use of the vestment capabilities. STRANDED ISLAND USERS signal flares or flags to bring a law At the present time there is no The possibility of people being enforcement or Coast Guard boa*. publicly owned and operated ferry stranded on one of the Islands in Shelter is provided on each Island system in Boston Harbor and there is, Boston Harbor is remote but does and would offer some degree of in fact, very limited control of water­ need some consideration. Due to the security in cases of more extended borne transportation by any public strandings on an island. agency. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), TRANSPORTATION the Massachusetts Port Authority, “Additional charges for passage on the small ADMINISTRATION the Massachusetts Turnpike Author­ ferry boat loops have been mentioned in A great deal of consideration was ity, and the Metropolitan District the section on transportation. Tie-up fees have also been mentioned for small boat usage of the given to the design and operation of Commission, all have regional trans­ various docks and marinas. the Harbor Islands ferry system. In­ portation facilities in the Boston area,

129 and might be considered as candi­ tor which has received serious con­ dates for running the ferry system. sideration. Preliminary analysis in­ For any one of these agencies, the dicates that a substantial investment development of such a system would would be required for landing facil­ necessitate the expansion of their ities and for a sufficient number of services into a completely new area. ferries to adequately serve the Harbor Another alternative for a publicly Islands. Past experience, both in the owned and operated system would in­ Boston area and elsewhere, suggests volve the establishment of a com­ that private operators are not able, pletely new authority. Several private­ or willing, to invest large sums in ly owned companies are currently these kinds of facilities. The tradi­ providing water transportation tionally limited demand for water services in Boston Harbor. These transportation and the seasonal na­ companies have both the personnel ture of the demand limit the flow of and experience of operating pas­ capital for such private investments. senger ferry services in the Harbor. This is particularly true of landing Seasonal considerations are an ad­ facilities. In most cases, where ferry ditional factor of the provision of service has been upgraded, the cost of ferry service. Levels of service will landing facilities has been under­ vary widely during the different sea­ written with public funds. sons of the year. This would present In summary, the analysis indicates difficult personnel problems for a that a combination of public and public authority, while it is the stan­ private responsibility is the most fea­ dard means of operation for the cur­ sible arrangement for the ferry sys­ rent system. tem to serve the Boston Harbor Is­ lands. Ideally, the Department of Assignment of operating respon­ Natural Resources or other appro­ sibility to a public agency would priate public agency would assume necessarily Involve civil service per­ the responsibility for building and sonnel and union representation. maintaining landing facilities at the This is an important factor since it mainland terminal locations (Long has a substantial impact on the Wharf and Nantasket) and on the Is­ economic feasibility of the system. lands. The Department of Natural Re­ All of the private ferry operations sources should have the respon­ studied, both in and out of the Boston sibility for determining routes, levels metropolitan area, operate with non­ of service, and fare structure, while union employees. There is an agree­ the actual service could be provided ment with the Maritime Unions to by bid contract with a private opera­ permit this non-union operation as tor. Such a system will provide the long as the size of the vessels re­ desired level of service and utilize main below certain standards. Public the advantages of both public and ownership and operating respon­ private involvement. sibility would probably necessitate unionization and civil service require­ ments. Economic evaluations suggest that operation of the system by a public agency would raise operating costs and fares. The ability of the private and pub­ lic sectors to provide the capital necessary to establish a high level of service to the Islands is another fac­

130

APPENDIX

Appendix I Boston Harbor. These factors significantly re­ duce the value and use of these waters and their ability to serve the surrounding metro­ Summary of Prior Harbor Islands politan area as an educational, commercial and Plans and Programs recreational resource.

This Comprehensive Plan is the latest in a long Open Space and Recreation series of studies, plans, and programs for the use of the Boston Harbor. Some of these plans 1. THIRD AND FINAL REPORT OF THE SPE­ and studies have resulted in action, such as the CIAL COMMISSION ON THE BOSTON HAR­ construction of seawalls in the 19th century or BOR ISLANDS (DECEMBER. 1970) the military fortification of the Harbor in the This legislative commission recommended that 1890’s. Many of the plans and studies have the Islands should be acquired for recreation fostered other studies or no action of substance. and conservation purposes. That recommenda­ The following is a brief listing of major plans tion and subsequent legislation was the first and studies with a description of the contents crucial step in a program designed to insure a of each. This list concentrates on the studies of productive harmony between the inhabitants of the last several years. It is not a comprehensive the Commonwealth and the ecological systems listing, but rather a sampling of the wide of the Harbor. Additional recommendations of variety of reports that have been prepared. the Commission to restore the Harbor as an im­ portant natural resource include: Pollution An act directing acquisition and development along the shores of Dorchester Bay and the 1. PROCEEDINGS: CONFERENCE ON POLLU­ Neponset River. TION OF NAVIGABLE WATERS OF BOSTON Additional legislation designed to maximize HARBOR AND TRIBUTARIES. year-round use of public open space in the These two volumes (May, 1968 and April, 1969) Harbor by directing the Metropolitan District summarize the conferences that were called to Commission, the Department of Public discuss the sources and effects of pollution in Works, the Department of Natural Resources, Boston Harbor. and the University of Massachusetts to ini­ 2. PLAN OF STUDY FOR A WATER QUALITY tiate a coordinated approach for construction MANAGEMENT PROGRAM FOR BOSTON of trails for horseback and bicycle riding, HARBOR. hiking, and snowmobiling along the shore­ New England River Basins Commission, May, lines in South Boston to the Mill Dam in Mil- 1970. Outlines the procedures to prepare a total ton, then to Squantum and along Wollaston water quality management program for the Har­ Beach in Quincy. bor and tributary area that will meet water Legislation to create a Boston Harbor Outer quality standards capable of supporting all le­ Sanctuary composed of Great Brewster, Mid­ gitimate water uses. The plan will be completed dle Brewster, Outer Brewster, Calf, Little Calf, in 1973. and Green Islands, together with such water 3. PROGRESS TOWARD ACHIEVING THE islets, rocks and flats adjacent thereto and WATER QUALITY GOALS FOR BOSTON such other property as may be necessary or HARBOR. expedient to protect this unique area. New England River Basins Commission, Oc­ The Commission recommends legislation cal­ tober, 1970. A first interim report prepared by culated to foster, promote, and maintain the Boston Harbor Coordinating Group on the governmental conditions under which man preparation of a plan for Boston Harbor. This and nature can exist in productive harmony plan will consist of a program for water quality . . . to preserve and enhance the qualities of control, recommendations for laws and regula­ Boston Harbor. tions for achieving the plan and recommenda­ tions for financing the plan. 2. PROJECT NECAP 4. BOSTON HARBOR POLLUTION SURVEY. M.l.T. Department of Civil Engineering. An inter­ Massachusetts Water Resources Commission disciplinary graduate course at MIT (Spring, (1968). A list and description of all pollution 1970) which investigated selected public policy sources in the Harbor. issues of long-term significance to the well­ 5. SUMMARY OF WATER QUALITY being of New England regional society; includ­ EVALUATIONS - BOSTON HARBOR AND ing electric power plant siting, shoreline recrea­ TRIBUTARIES. tion, air and water pollution, and political re­ Northeast Water Quality Management Center, organization. Recommendations concerning U.S. Department of the Interior (now Environ­ Boston Harbor were: mental Protection Agency) (July and August Eliminate sludge dumping into the Harbor. 1967). An evaluation of the several factors in­ Develop the Harbor Islands for conservation fluencing water quality in the Charles River and and recreation only.

133 The State of Massachusetts should buy as Intensive Development relation to food sources in eastern Massachu­ much shore-front property as possible fo' setts. The effectiveness of reproductive con­ recreational purposes. 1. A STUDY OF THE ELECTRIC POWER SITU­ trol measures is also discussed. ATION IN NEW ENGLAND The New England Regional Commission (Sep­ 2. A STUDY OF THE MARINE RESOURCES 3. ECONOMIC FACTORS IN THE DEVELOP­ tember, 1970). A study outlining the existing and OF QUINCY BAY MENT OF THE COASTAL ZONE projected utilization of electric power in the Division of Marine Fisheries, Massachusetts De­ MIT Project Sea Grant (November 20, 1970). New England states. An appendix evaluates the partment of Natural Resources (March, 1966). Devanney, Derbis, Seifert and Wood. Includes a major environmental considerations in siting of Outlines the physical and chemical character­ cost-benefit analysis of recreational develop­ power plants in New England. This appendix istics and discusses the economic and recrea­ ment of the Boston Harbor Area. discusses the technical feasibility of utilizing tion values of finfish and shellfish in Quincy Great Brewster Island and other islands in Bay. Similar studies on Dorchester and Hing- 4. OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION PRO­ Boston Harbor for power generation plants. The ham Bay. GRAM FOR METROPOLITAN BOSTON report emphasizes that other than technical cri­ VOLUME 2 - BOSTON HARBOR teria must be considered for final site selection. Concurrent Studies Metropolitan Area Planning Council (July, 1967). This study discusses recommendations 2. A REPORT ON DORCHESTER BA Y There are a number of studies that are currently for protecting and developing Boston Harbor DEVELOPMENT being undertaken that are related to or support­ for open space and recreation purposes. MIT and Boston Redevelopment Authority (Sep­ ive of the Comprehensive Plan for the Islands. tember, 1969). A report exploring the possibility The following is an incomplete listing of these 5. of developing residential acreage in Dorchester THE HARBOR ISLANDS studies with their projected completion dates. The MIT Harbor Islands Study Group (Novem­ Bay — partly on filled land and partly on the ber, 1968). A report which was officially re­ existing shore of South Boston, Thompson Is­ Pollution quested by the legislative commission on the land, Spectacle Island and Long Island. Boston Harbor Islands. The report considered 1. WATER QUALITY MANAGEMENT PRO­ two alternative courses of action: providing 3. UNITED STATES BICENTENNIAL WORLD GRAM FOR BOSTON HARBOR passive recreation in a relatively undeveloped EXPOSITION BOSTON 1976 New England River Basins Commission (to be setting or intensive recreational facilities United States Bicentennial World Exposition completed July, 1973). See above. coupled to apartment complexes. All intensive Corporation (September, 1969). A report to the uses proposed in the study were rejected by the American Revolution Bicentennial Commission 2. BOSTON HARBOR DEBRIS STUDY, De­ Commission. See 1 above. on the possible holding of an international partment of the Army, Corps of Engineers. exposition on a filled site on and between Colum­ This study identifies sources of drift and debris 6. bia Point and Thompson Island in Dorchester PROLOGUE 75 from derelict vessels and dilapidated structures Boston Redevelopment Authority. An ongoing Bay. along the shores of Boston Harbor and recom­ study to make certain Improvements along the mends procedures for eliminating these sources shoreline of the Inner Harbor and linkages to the 4. PROJECT BOSPORUS: BOSTON PORT of pollution and hazards to navigation. A cost Harbor Islands in conjunction with the major in­ UTILIZATION STUDY MIT (1968). An interdisciplinary study of ship­ of $7,000,000 is projected for clean-up of the flux of tourism that is expected in the Summers debris in the Inner and Outer Harbor. of 1975 and 1976 to celebrate the bicentennial. ping and transportation problems in the Boston Area. Intensive development of both the Inner 7. SOUTHEAST NEW ENGLAND STUDY and Outer Harbors for transportation facilities (SENE) is proposed, including a new airport on the New England River Basins Commission (to be Brewster Islands. Appendix II completed 1975). The objective of this study is to create a comprehensive, coordinated plan for 5. ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT: PRO­ Beach Areas and Island Perimeters water and related land resources in the South POSED LAND FILLS ENCLOSED BY ROCK East New England area. DIKES AND TIDAL FLAT DREDGING IN The perimeter of each Island was measured in BOSTON HARBOR WATERS ADJOINING linear feet along the five foot contour line, with 8. MASTER PLAN FOR WORLD'S END LOGAN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, EAST shoreline characteristics classified as follows: Trusteesof Reservations (to be completed 1972). BOSTON, MASS. Mostly sand denotes only beaches composed This design report will detail recommendations Massachusetts Port Authority (February 23, primarily of fine sand of a quality generally for the passive utilization of the Olmsted de­ 1971). A description of environmental impact on considered to be suitable for swimming beach. signed World's End. Boston Harbor and vicinity due to the land fill­ ing necessary for an extension of Logan Air­ Coarse sand includes beaches composed of 9. PLANS AND STUDIES OF PEDDOCK'S IS­ port. coarser grade sand, pebbles, and shells. LAND, GEORGE'S ISLAND, LOVELL'S ISLAND, Generally, areas included under this class­ CASTLE ISLAND, AND DEER ISLAND. Biological Studies ification would be suitable for swimming Metropolitan District Commission. A series of beaches upon removal of large pebbles and ongoing plans, actions, and investigations of 1. STUDIES OF HERRING GULLS IN NEW shell deposits. MDC owned islands. These include a consultant ENGLAND study of deteriorating seawalls, historical and Massachusetts Audubon Society (May, 1967). Mixed denotes beaches including coarse sand, restoration activities on George’s Island, Castle This report discusses the growth of the gull pebbles, shells, and small rocks to around six Island, and Peddock's Island, etc. population in New England and particularly in inches in diameter. These beaches would

134

generally be suitable for swimming and sun­ Shoreline Characteristics bathing only after removal of rocks, shells, and pebbles. Boston Harbor Islands (in linear feet)

Rocky refers to shoreline which Is pre­ Seawall Steep- Total dominately small rocks to 8 Inches in diameter. Island Mostly Coarse Mixed Rocky or Eroded Bedrock Island Considerable time and expense would be re­ Sand Sand Rip-Rap Banks Perimeter quired to create beach in these areas. Bumpkin 4,500 900 5,400 Seawall or rip-rap Includes both broken and Button 700 300 1,000 intact seawall or rip-rap. Calf 200 5,200 5,400 Castle 900 900 900 2,000 4,700 Steep-eroded banks generally refers to areas Deer 1,000 2,000 1,600 7,600 12,200 of major erosion on island perimeters. Gallop’s 800 1,600 2,700 5,100 George’s 600 1,000 3,000 4,600 Bedrock refers to outcroppings defining is­ Grape 1,100 3,300 2,400 400 7,200 land perimeters. Great Brewster 1,000 800 2,700 900 5,400 Green 4,800 4,800 Total island perimeter Is the total shoreline Hangman 2,600 2,600 perimeter along the five foot contour line in Langlee 1,200 1,100 2,300 linear feet. Little Calf 1,800 1,800 Little Brewster 2,800 2,800 The table headed Beach Area lists the area of Long 2,400 10,475 3,100 4,425 20,400 shoreline suitable for bathing beaches. The area Lovell’s 4,200 4,800 (3,400)' 9,000 was derived by taking the linear extent of shore­ Middle Brewster 4,600 4,600 line classified as mostly sand, coarse sand, and Moon 2,600 1,100 3,500 7,200 mixed, and multiplying by 20 square feet — a Nut 3,600 3,600 figure reflecting the average depth of beaches. Outer Brewster 8,600 8,600 Peddock’s 16,000 7,200 23,200 Raccoon 2,200 2,200 Ragged 1,200 1,200 2,400 Ralnsford 2,800 900 1,900 1,000 6,600 Sarah 700 1,400 2,100 Sheep 1,500 1,500 Appendix III Slate 200 2,900 3,100 Spectacle 2,800 6,400 9,200 Wildlife Observed on the Thompson 5,200 10,200 3,400 1,000 19,800 Total Feet 10,300 45,800 27,475 21,800 27,200 16,025 40,900 188,800 Harbor Islands Total Miles 1.9 8.7 5.2 4.1 5.1 3.0 7.7 35.8

The listing of wildlife observed on each Island 'A large beach area is found beyond the seawall on Lovell's Island, and represents the true perimeter is Intended to provide a general Impression of of the Island. Seawall measurements are therefore not counted in the perimeter, but are included In the kinds of animals the casual observer might tabulating total seawall. encounter during an Island visit. It Is a com­ pendium of observation from a variety of sources, and by no means complete. A more de­ tailed inventory of vegetation, birds, and Gallop's nesting gulls, songbirds, rats Long ring-necked pheasants, song­ marine life may be found under separate head­ George's songbirds, rats birds, rats, meadow mice, cot­ ings. Grape gulls, cormorants, sandpipers, tontail rabbits songbirds, rats, meadow mice Lovell’s nesting herring gulls, barn Great Brewster nesting gulls, common eiders, swallows, red-winged black­ ISLAND WILDLIFE rats birds, song sparrows, rats, Green nesting herring and black- meadow mice Bumpkin songbirds, rats, meadow mice backed gulls, cormorants, Middle Brewster nesting gulls, barn swallows, Button meadow mice, songbirds, barn swallows, red-winged yellowthroats, red-winged shorebirds, rats blackbirds, rats blackbirds, song sparrows, Calf nesting herring gulls, eastern Hangman ruddy turnstones, herring migrant songbirds, rats phoebes, robins, yellow- gulls, cormorants Moon brown thrashers, songbirds, throats, red-winged black­ Langlee songbirds, shorebirds, rats rats, meadow mice, gray birds, song sparrows, migrant Little Brewster nesting gulls, nesting cor­ squirrels, skunks songbirds, rats morants, rats Outer Brewster nesting herring and black- Deer red-winged blackbirds, ring­ Little Calf nesting herring and black- backed gulls, barn swallows, necked pheasants, songbirds backed gulls, nesting double- yellowthroats, red-winged rats, meadow mice, raccoons crested cormorants, rats blackbirds, song sparrows,

136 Beach Area and Europe. Every effort should be made to protect the Boston Harbor Islands colony by prohibiting access (in square feet) to Snake Island during the nesting season, from mid- (Linear feet x 20 square feet) May to early August. Domestic pets such as dogs Total are a particular threat to the Island Mostly Coarse Mixed Beach terns and should be prohibited Sand Sand Area year round. Five pairs of least terns were also observed to Bumpkin 0 be nesting on the Island. Button 0 Calf 4,000 4,000 Castle 18,000 18,000 36,000 Gulls Deer 20,000 40,000 60,000 Gallop's 16,000 32,000 48,000 George's 12,000 12,000 Boston Harbor offers a nearly Ideal habitat for Grape 22,000 22,000 gulls. Many of the Islands provide attractive Great Brewster 20,000 20,000 sites for breeding colonies by virtue of their Green 0 relative Isolation, freedom from predators, and Hangman 0 natural food sources. The proximity of metro­ Lang lee 24,000 24,000 politan Boston and the attendant food subsidy Little Calf 0 from wastes produced by human activity is Little Brewster 0 another major attractive force. Long 48,000 209,500 257,500 Gulls In the Greater Boston area are primarily Lovell’s 84,000 96,000 180,000 herring gulls and black-backed gulls. There is Middle Brewster 0 evidence of nesting colonies on Green, Calf, Moon 52,000 52,000 Little Calf, Middle Brewster, Outer Brewster, Nut 0 Greater Brewster, Lovell’s, Spectacle, and Gal­ Outer Brewster 0 lop's Islands. Shallow nests loosely constructed Peddock’s 320,000 144,000 464,000 of dried grasses and roughly a foot In diameter Raccoon 0 are tucked in among low growing brush and Ragged 24,000 24,000 debris on most of the Islands. From May to Rainsford 56,000 56,000 July, mottled gray-green eggs are laid, followed Sarah 14,000 14,000 by the appearance of downy chicks. The chicks Sheep 30,000 30,000 rapidly grow to adult size, but are distinguished Slate 4,000 4,000 from adult gulls by their brown plumage. Spectacle 56,000 56,000 In addition to serving as a nursery, many of Thompson 104,000 204,000 308,000 the Islands also function as graveyards. The Total Square Feet 206,000 904,000 561,000 1,671,500 Brewsters, particularly Middle Brewster, which is primarily rocky terrain, are littered with dead Total Square Miles 5 20 13 38 gulls and bones. Any access to Middle Brew­ ster necessitates climbing rocks covered with moss and slippery with viscous white gull drop­ pings. Many grassy areas suitable for picnick­ migrant songbirds, rats, Slate songbirds, rats, meadow mice ing must be shared with old bones and birds meadow mice Spectacle nesting herring gulls, ring­ in various stages of decomposition. These con­ Peddock’s black-crowned night herons necked pheasants, red-winged ditions are generally found on the sections of (rookery), pheasants, quail, blackbirds, song sparrows, all islands where there are gull colonies. woodcocks, pigeons, egrets, ducks, rats Aesthetically, gulls wheeling over the Islands great blue herons, rabbits, Thompson common egrets, killdeers, and the Harbor are a pleasing sight long associ­ muskrats, raccoons, rats ring-necked pheasants, green ated with seascape. Droppings, bones, and food Raccoon double-crested cormorants, herons, shorebirds, songbirds, remains are natural concomitants of the pres­ herring and black-backed rats ence of most wildlife species. The gulls have gulls, rats, meadow mice Snake Island Snake Island is not included naturally colonized the Harbor Islands In the Ragged common terns, songbirds within the boundaries estab­ absence of human activity and should remain shorebirds, rats lished by the legislation au­ a part of the natural environment of the Harbor Rainsford sandpipers, hawks, ducks, thorizing acquisition of the Islands Park System. snakes Boston Harbor Islands. The The number of gulls present in the greater Sarah meadow mice, songbirds, Island is, however, a nesting Boston area, generally nesting on the Harbor shorebirds, rats colony for 250 pairs of com­ Islands, however, is not a result of population Sheep herring and black-backed mon terns, which are a declin- growth due solely to natural factors. The large gulls, sandpipers, shorebirds Ing species In North America and rapidly growing gull population clustered

137 around Boston and other metropolitan areas is One of the two major hazards associated with posal should be operated so as to make refuse attracted and maintained by food subsidies pro­ our large gull population Is the potential danger inaccessible to gulls. vided by human activities associated with these of an aircraft strike. In a study prepared by the population centers. Massachusetts Audubon Society for the Bureau Birds Identified on the Boston of Sport Fisheries and Wildlife, and funded by Throughout the Eastern seaboard, major gull Harbor Islands concentrations are found in metropolitan areas. the Federal Aviation Agency, it was concluded In a winter census of gulls conducted from 1962 that gulls present the most serious hazard to through 1964, and reported in Studies of Herring aircraft at Logan Airport. This listing includes birds actually observed Gulls in New England, prepared by the Massa­ The situation of Logan Airport in the Harbor, during field surveys and by residents of some chusetts Audubon Society, 45,000 gulls were surrounded by mudflats, marshes and ponds, of the Islands. Many other birds may actually concentrated in Greater Boston. Of the 650,000 is itself an attraction to feeding and loafing appear on the Islands, but the intent of this listing is to present an impression of the variety gulls censused (from Mexico to New Brunswick birds. The proximity of other food sources such of types of birds, rather than a complete in­ and Nova Scotia) in the Winters of 1965 and as fish piers, dumps and sewage outfalls, makes ventory. 1967, 330,000 were observed in Greater Boston, bird trips across flight paths inevitable. Greater New York, Baltimore, Maryland, and As the gull population increases, the potential COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME Norfolk, Virginia. for an aircraft strike rises. In their report, the Gulls are presently producing two to three Audubon Society records experiments with CORMORANTS times as many young as are balanced by mor­ many methods of gull control including spray­ double-crested tality rates. The average life expectancy of adult ing eggs with formalin and oil mixtures, break­ cormorant Phalacrocorax aurltus gulls is twelve years, and the population has ing eggs, killing gulls, reproduction Inhibition, great cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo been observed to increase at the rate of 5% per introducing predators onto breeding colonies year over the last 70 years. The net result is that and removing food subsidies. While a measure GEESE the herring gull population in New England has of success is possible using each method, or a Canada goose Branta canadensis been doubling every 12-15 years since 1900. combination of methods, only the removal of Studies have indicated that gulls at their food subsidies will substantially reduce the gull DUCKS breeding colonies eat a diet that is composed of population in a particular area and reduce the mallard Anas platyrhynchos half to three quarters natural food such as mus­ probability of gulls migrating In from other colo­ black duck Anas rubripes sels, crabs, clams, and small fish. The remainder nies. All other methods require a massive, well- pintail Anas acuta of their food is essentially a subsidy composed run program that will need to be repeated at in­ baldpate Mareca americana of refuse from human activities: garbage, fish tervals to be effective and may threaten other green-winged teal Anas carollnensis wastes, and sewage. Gulls congregate where wildlife if improperly administered. greater scaup Aythya mania there are food sources such as dumps, pig farms, The second major hazard posed by large gull common goldeneye Bucephala clangula sewage outfalls, and fish piers. Studies of gull populations is the potential for contamination bufflehead Bucephala albeola movement, and bird banding, to trace migration of drinking water supplies. The water supply in common mer­ patterns in relation to breeding colonies, show the city of Gloucester was contaminated with ganser Mergus merganser that gulls quickly abandon an area where food salmonella and Escherichia coli in 1963 and red-breasted Is no longer available and aggregate just as merganser fish have become contaminated by gulls carry­ Mergus serrator rapidly near a new food source. This gull move­ ing the bacteria and introducing them through ment is associated with natural foods as well as their droppings. The presence of bacteria in HAWKS AND FALCONS marsh hawk food from refuse. gull droppings poses a potential health hazard Circus cyaneus sparrow hawk Falco sparverius In and around the Boston Harbor there are to individuals using the Islands for recreational plentiful sources of food subsidy. Refuse from purposes. Rocky islands such as the Brewsters PHEASANTS fish-processing operations, piggeries, dumps, requiring climbing over sharp rocks covered ring-necked and sewage outfalls is available to the local gull with fresh gull droppings, must be equipped pheasant Phasianus colchicus population. With attractive Island breeding with first aid materials for prompt treatment of grounds and ample food sources, Boston offers cuts and abrasions which may become infected HERONS AND BITTERNS a most attractive environment for gull colonies. from contact with gull droppings. Users of more cattle egret Bubulcus Ibis Human activity is threatening many species remote islands, particularly campers, should be great blue heron Ardea herodias of wildlife with extinction. By subsidizing the warned to treat skin injuries promptly to avoid black-crowned gull we are tipping the natural balance in the infection. night heron Nyctlcorax nycti- opposite direction and creating potential haz­ Regular use of the Islands during the nesting corax ards to our own population in the process. season may have a discouraging effect on some American bittern Botaurus lentlglnosus Gull droppings on roofs, boats and piers are breeding colonies. However, since the birds es­ a nuisance which Is aggravated by increased tablish colonies in April and heavy use of the PLOVERS AND SURFBIRDS numbers of birds. Islands will probably not begin until June, a American golden Large gull populations seeking new breeding whole generation of new gulls may hatch before plover Pluvial is dominica colonies may force other bird colonies such as this control mechanism will have any effect. black-bellied terns off their nesting grounds. In extreme All governmental agencies having regulatory plover Squatarola squatarola cases, the gull population may eliminate nesting powers over the disposal of edible wastes should semipalmated colonies of other birds in the Boston area by their be urged to demand compliance with the law. plover Charadrius semi- aggressive behavior in establishing breeding More modern methods of handling fish wastes palmatus colonies. should be instituted, all methods of waste dis­ kllldeer Charadrius vociferus

138 tree swallow Iridoprocne bicolor blue jay Cyanocltta costata common crow Corvus brachyrhyn- chos black-capped chickadee Parus atrlcapillus white-breasted nuthatch Sitta carollnensis brown creeper Certhla familiaris house wren Troglodytes aedon catbird Dumetella carollnen- sis brown thrasher Toxostoma rufum robin Turdus migratorius eastern bluebird Sialia sialis ruby-crowned kinglet Regulus calendula golden-crowned kinglet Regulus satrapa starling Sturnus vulgaris red-eyed vlreo Vlreo olivaceus black-and-white warbler Mniotllta varia yellow warbler Dendrolca petechia myrtle warbler Dendrolca coronata blackpoll warbler Dendroica striata palm warbler Dendroica palmarum northern water- thrush Selurus novebora- censis yellowthroat Geothlypls trichas American redstart Setophaga ruticilla house sparrow Passer domesticus bobolink Dolichonyx oryzlv- orus SANDPIPERS AND ALLIES OWLS easter meadow­ whimbrel (hud- screech owl Otus asio lark Sturnella magna sonian curlew) Numenlus phaeopus long-eared owl Asio otus red-winged black­ greater yellowlegs Totanusmelanoleucus snowy owl Nyctea scandiaca bird Agelalus phoeniceus lesser yellowlegs Totanus flavipes short-eared owl Asio flammeus common grackle Quiscalus qulscula short-billed barn owl Tyto alba brown-headed dowltcher Limnodromus griseus cowblrd Molothrus ater GOATSUCKERS ruddy turnstone Arenaria Interpres baltimore oriole Icterus galbula whip-poor-will Caprimulgusvoclferus knot Calldris canutus scarlet tanager Plranga olivácea dunlin Erolia ferruginea HUMMINGBIRDS cardinal Rlchmondena sanderling Crocethia alba ruby throated cardinalis semipalmated hummingbird Archilochus colubris indigo bunting Passerina cyanea sandpiper Ereunetes puslllus pine grosbeak Pinicola enucleator American wood­ KINGFISHERS American goldfinch Spinus tristis cock Philohela minor belted kingfisher Megacerylealcyon rufous-sided towhee Pipilo erythroph- GULLS AND TERNS WOODPECKERS thalmus great black- yellow-shafted savannah sparrow Passerculus sand- backed gull Larus marlnus flicker Colaptes auratus wichensis herring gull Larus argentatus hairy woodpecker Dendrocopos villosus vesper sparrow Pooecetes gramineus ring-billed gull Larus delawarensis downy woodpecker Dendrocopos pubes- slate-colored junco Junco hyemalls laughing gull Larus atrlcllla cens tree sparrow Spizella arborea arctic tern Sterna paradlsaea chipping sparrow Spizella passerina common tern Sterna hirundo PERCHING BIRDS field sparrow Spizella pusilla roseate tern Sterna dougallii eastern kingbird Tyrannus tyrannus white-crowned eastern phoebe Sayornis phoebe sparrow Zonotrichia leucophrys DOVES horned lark Eremophila alpestrls white-throated mourning dove Zenaidura macroura barn swallow Hirundo rustica sparrow Zonotrichia alblcollis

139 fox sparrow Passerella iliaca song sparrow Melospiza melodia snow bunting Plectrophenax nivalis

Hunting

Marsh areas along the Boston Harbor coastline and on the Islands provide excellent loafing and feeding areas for waterfowl. During the fall and early winter, hunters harvest ducks, geese, brant, and other waterfowl from boats, along the coastline, and on the Islands. There does not seem to be a large migration to the area by hunters, who are primarily resi­ dents of towns and cities adjacent to the Harbor. It is estimated that 15,000 waterfowl hunters harvest game along the Massachusetts coast with approximately 7% or 1,050, hunting in the Harbor area. The season extends from mid- October to the second week In January In most years and is dependent on species. All regulations regarding season, bag limit and species which may be harvested are estab­ lished by the Division of Fisheries and Game of the Massachusetts Department of Natural Re­ sources within guidelines set by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Guidelines are established to allow the harvest of a natural surplus and to maintain a healthy population.

Rat Infestation

Rats are the predominant form of animal life found on the Islands. At the request of the Metropolitan Area Planning Council a survey was undertaken by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to determine the presence and location of rats and other wildlife on the Boston Harbor Long Island, Lovell’s, Spectacle, Langlee, Bump­ a valuable commercial fishery. Lobsters are Islands. Information on food sources and recom­ kin, Middle Brewster, Outer Brewster, Ped- abundant throughout the Harbor and are caught mended control measures were included. All Is­ dock’s, Moon, and Grape. in traps or by diving for recreation as well as lands in Boston Harbor were found to have rat Large numbers of rats may increase the po­ sale. In recent years, commercial lobstermen populations except Sheep, Hangman, Snake, tential health hazards of food contamination and have fished nearly 600,000 pounds of lobsters and Ralnsford Islands. The size of the rat popu­ rat bite, particularly among overnight campers. annually with a wholesale value of over half a lation on each Island appears to be a direct func­ Islands designated for intensive human use may million dollars. Other marine animals such as tion of their food supply. The major source of require control of the rat population. Control horseshoe and green crabs, softshell clams food Is natural, consisting of mussels, shellfish recommendations included in the Fish and and blue mussels, bloodworms and sea worms, remains left by gulls, eggs of ground-nesting Wildlife Service report are baiting burrows with and numerous small fish may be found along birds, dead gulls, and fish or other marine life fast-acting toxicants, use of anti-coagulant the shorelines of many islands. washed ashore. A secondary food source is toxicants, and burrow-fumigating gases. Con­ waste material washed in from the Harbor, in­ trolling the size of the rat population is a con­ cluding sewage, refuse from municipal dumps tinuing procedure which should be supervised Finfish Species Identified in on coastal areas, and food stuffs dumped from by a pest control expert. A crucial factor in ef­ small crafts and ship traffic in the Harbor. A fectively controlling the rat population is proper Boston Harbor third source is refuse left by people using the rubbish collection and disposal. Islands. Although natural food sources will COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME continue to support a rat population, reduction DOGFISH of the secondary and tertiary sources would Marine Animals in Boston Harbor spiny dogfish Squalus acanthias contribute to limiting the population. Rat activity is concentrated along the shores. Many of the finfish species found in Boston SKATES Those Islands reported to be most heavily in­ Harbor are actively pursued by anglers and winter skate Raja ocellata fested with rats include Gallop’s, portions of some, notably winter flounder and cod, support little skate Raja erinacea

140 grubby Myoxocephalus aeneus longhorn sculpin Myoxocephalus octodecemspinosus

LUMPFISHES lumpfish Cyclopterus lumpus

SANDLANCES American sand lance Ammodytes americanus

EELPOUTS ocean pout Macrozoarces americanus

SILVERSIDES Atlantic sllverside Menidla menidia

LEFTEYE FLOUNDERS yellowtall flounder Limanada ferruginea smooth flounder Liopsetta putnami winter flounder Pseudopleuronectes americanus

Source: A Study of the Marine Resources of Quincy Bay, William C. Jerome, Arthur P. Chesmore, and Charles O. Anderson, Jr. A Study of the Marine Resources of Dorchester Bay, Arthur P. Chesmore, Salvatore A. Testa- verde, and F. Paul Richards.

HERRINGS pollock Pollachlus vlrens blueback herring Alosa aestivalis red hake Urophycis chuss alewife Alosa pseudoharengus STICKLEBACKS Atlantic menhaden Brevoortia tyrannus fourspine stickle­ Atlantic herring Clupea harengus back Apeltes quadracus threespine stickle­ SMELTS back Gasterosteus aculeatus American (rain­ ninespine stickle­ bow) smelt Osmerus mordax back Pungltlus pungltlus

PIKES redfln pickerel Esox americanus PIPEFISHES northern pipefish Syngnathus fuscus EELS American eel Anguilla rostrata SEABASSES white perch Morone americanus KILLIFISHES striped bass Morone saxatilis mummichog Fundulus heteroclltus striped kllliflsh Fundulus majalls MACKERELS Atlantic mackerel Scomber scombrus CODFISHES AND HAKES Atlantic cod Gadus morhua SCULPINS silver hake Merluccius bilinearls sea raven Hemitrlpterus Atlantic tomcod Microgadus tomcod americanus

141 Marine Sport Fishing Facilities

Township Location B&T RR J&P LS SC Tide

BOSTON Summer Street Bridge 1 Commercial Pt., Morrissey Blvd. 1 gravel all Malibu Beach, Morrissey Blvd. 1 paved high Castle Island P-1 Orient Heights Beach, East Boston 1 sand all 40 New Street, East Boston 1 paved all Mike’s Bait Shop X Bill’s Bait & Sport Shop X Stoddard’s, 50 Temple Place X Neponset Circle Bait Shop X

BRAINTREE Bra-Wey Sport Shop, 178 Quincy Ave. X Drew's Sport Shop X Webster’s, Main Street X

DORCHESTER Neponset Circle Bait X

HINGHAM Kehoe’s, Otis Street Near Iron Horse Statue 1 paved 1/2 Hingham Marine Center 1 paved all Snug Harbor Boat Yard X Kehoe's Boat Livery X

HULL “A” Street Pier 12 P-1 1 paved all Pemberton Pier 30 P-1 1 paved all Steamboat Pier, Nantasket P-1 Gould’s Boat Shop, Nantasket Pier 1 paved all Gun Rock J-1 Nantasket Avenue 1 paved V4 Hampton Circle 1 paved all Waveland Marina, A St. X Eaton’s Marina, Nantasket Pier X

MILTON Milton Yacht Club 1 paved all

QUINCY Bay View Avenue, Houghs Neck 50 1 paved 'k Quincy Bay Marina, Houghs Neck 35 1 sand 'h Boston Harbor Marina, E. Squantum St. 1 paved all Wollaston Beach 1 Mound St. Beach 1I Harvey’s Wharf, Harvey Lane X 63 Green's Bait Shop, Washington St. X

REVERE Holt’s, Revere Beach Blvd. X 50 P-1 Capt. Fowler’s Marina, Rt. 1A, Point of Pines 14 P-1 1 paved all North Shore Marine X Rt. 1A, Pine River 12 1 paved all

SAUGUS Ballard Street & Rt. 107 12 P-1 Chippy's Sport Shop X

142 Marine Sport Fishing Facilities

Township Location B&T RR J&P LS sc Tide

SOMERVILLE The Fish Net, 79A Broadway X

WEYMOUTH North Weymouth Marine 1 paved V4 Back River 1 paved all River Street 2 paved all

WINTHROP Belle Isle Terrace X 15 1 paved all Crystal Cove Marina, 514 Shirley St. 15 1 paved all

Source: Massachusetts Saltwater Fishing Guide

B&T — Bait and Tackle LS — Launching Sites RR — Rental Rowboats SC — Launching Site Conditions J&P — Jetties and Piers Tide — Tide when Usable

Salt-marsh

The coastal salt-marsh remaining in the Boston Harbor area is part of the valuable belt of marsh along the entire Eastern coast. The value of this marshland as a nutrient resource for marine life and inter-dependent terrestrial life, as pro­ tection against storm water run-off and wave erosion of the shoreline, as a medium for ab­ sorbing and converting nutrient pollutants into plant material, and as open space for educa­ tional and aesthetic enjoyment represents a tremendous economic resource. The value of commercial and sport fisheries, recreational hunting, the cost of storm damage and pollution damage are each vitally linked to existence of salt-marsh. The value of filling, dredging and developing salt-marsh must be weighed against the heavy costs of destroying the benefits of this natural and delicately balanced resource.

The benign appearance of most salt-marsh belies the importance of the dynamic functions it assumes. The activities of producing nutrients, protecting small aquatic life and absorbing ex­ cess rain water to release it slowly and harm­ lessly are not readily visible to the casual ob­ server. With high land costs and demands for development it is tempting to consider filling the marsh and developing the land. The results of ignoring the value of salt-marsh, however, will be only too visible as the finfish and shell­ fish population disappears, flooding and erosion occur and wildlife migrate from the area.

143

Soft Shell Clam Flats in Boston Harbor themselves and have colorful spring foliage and fruit for birds in the fall.

Acres of Bushels Prunus virginiana — Chokecherry Productive of Legal Bushels Wholesale Year Young saplings are on a few of the Islands, Jurisdiction Clam Flats Size Clams Harvested Value Surveyed scattered, and in dense thickets. This tree Is commonly found everywhere in eastern North QUINCY BAY America as a weed tree. The fall fruits provide Boston 56.8 2,509 food for birds. For this reason, the tree should Quincy 613.4 56,854 be encouraged in areas set aside for wildlife. Quercus alba — White Oak Sub-total 670.2 59,363 3,480 $34,800 1964 Quercus palustris — Pin Oak Quercus rubra — Red Oak HINGHAM BAY Quercus velutina — Black Oak Braintree 42.0 3,658 Oaks are most commonly found on the islands Hingham 344.6 40,377 Hull 356.0 38,894 that have been recently and are still being ac­ Quincy 334.4 16,783 tively used. The oaks in general are large long- Weymouth 380.9 46,538 lived trees. They are excellent ornamentals noted especially for their red autumn color. Sub-total 1,457.9 146,250 5,193 $51,930 1970 Their acorns provide fall and winter food for small animals. DORCHESTER BAY Ulmus americana — American Elm Boston 625.1 42,210 Mature and often diseased trees are on several Milton 59.3 429 Islands. As a mature tree, no other has its de­ Quincy 290.2 28,339 sirable vase shape form. Because the American Sub-total 974.6 70,978 1,705.5 $17,055 1967-68 Elm Is very susceptible to the Dutch Elm dis­ ease, additional plantings of the tree should TOTAL 3,102.7 276,591 10,378.5 $103,785 not be considered.

Source: A Study of the Marine Resources of Quincy Bay, William C. Jerome, Arthur P. Ches- Most Common Existing Shrubs more, and Charles O. Anderson, Jr. Myrica pensylvanica — Bayberry A Study of the Marine Resources of Dorchester Bay, Arthur P. Chesmore, Salvatore A. Testaverde, and F. Paul Richards. This native shrub is found in clumps on several Unpublished statistics on Hingham Bay from Arthur P. Chesmore, Massachusetts Depart­ Islands. It Is noted for its ability to grow in poor ment of Natural Resources. sandy soils and to withstand salt water spray. It Is a fine foliage plant with profuse waxy gray berries that provide fall and winter food for birds. This is ashrub that should be encouraged. Appendix IV and apples suitable for cooking and for birds in the fall, the apple is a desirable tree. Rhus radicana — Poison Ivy Most Common Existing Trees Plnus sylvestris — Scotch Pine A poisonous shrubby vine, poison ivy is on most of the Islands. It thrives anywhere and should Acer saccharum — Sugar Maple Young and mature trees are on several of the be eradicated with chemicals wherever It ap­ Occasional planted mature trees, surrounded Islands, usually as Isolated plants and occa­ pears. The white berries that provide food for by saplings, are on a few of the Islands and sionally in groups. It is rather picturesque and birds are its only attribute. other Islands have some individual saplings. open with twisted bluish-green needles. As its The Sugar Maple is widely native to eastern growth on the Islands shows, it is a good tree Rhus typhina — Staghorn Sumac North America. The general habit Is oval with for seashore conditions. Many of these pines This weed is the dominant vegetation on all a gorgeous autumn color, a mixture of yellow, were planted by the Civilian Conservation the Harbor Islands. The sumac grows rapidly orange, and scarlet. It is sturdy and solid and Corps during the Depression of the 1930's. and thrives in poor soils. Often reaching the generally slow growing. Its growth should be size of a small tree, it is weak wooded, breaking encouraged. Populus deltoides — Eastern Poplar or Cotton­ In heavy snows and ice storms. The fruits are wood Betula paprifera — Paper or Canoe Birch small, reddish and borne in tight upright clus­ Young saplings are on most of the Islands, Occasional planted mature trees and saplings ters that often remain on the plants all winter, scattered and in dense thickets. A weed tree, are on a few of the Islands. The Paper Birch is providing food for birds. Some sumac is desir­ the poplar is fast growing, weak wooded, and a popular native ornamental tree. A graceful able, but not the amount that is presently grow­ lacking in ornamental flowers, fruit, and autumn tree, it has a straight trunk, white with black ing on the Islands. color. Where other trees can grow, the poplar markings and Its autumn color Is golden yellow should be overlooked. Rosa rugosa — Rugosa Rose to bronze. It has rapid growth and Is a desirable This shrubby rose is a beautiful sight on most tree. Prunus persica — Common Peach of the Islands. The profuse red or white flowers Maius pumila — Common Apple Pyrus communis — Common Pear last through June and July and the large fruits Apple trees are found scattered on several of Occasional peach and pear trees are found on turn brick red in late August. The autumn color the Islands. With colorful blossoms in the spring a few Islands. These trees will naturally seed is a gorgeous orange. Its shrubby growth pro-

145 A Partial List of the Most Common Wild Flowers vides a haven for birds and its fruits food in fall FAMILY SPECIES and winter. This rose can withstand salt spray and should be encouraged. LATIN NAME COMMON NAME LATIN NAME COMMON NAME Rubus — Raspberry — Blackberry Asclepiadaceae Milkweed Asclepias syriaca Common Milkweed The raspberry and blackberry shrubs produce Chenopodiaceae Goosefoot Atriplex patula Orache a dense thicket in many places on the Islands. Salicornia Glasswort They are very thorny, providing a haven for Compositae Daisy Cirsium arvense Canada Thistle birds. The fruits are edible, by man and birds. Achillea millefolium Yarrow The rest of the vegetation on the Islands are Arctium minus Common Burdock the grasses and weeds that are common to the Chrysanthemum waste grounds of the Northeast. leucanthemum Ox Eye Daisy Cichorium A Partial List of the Most Common intybus Chicory Marsh Grasses Erigeron canadensis Horseweed LATIN NAME COMMON NAME Lactuca scariola Prickly Lettuce Distichlis spicata Spike Grass Onopordum Equisetum litorale Horsetail acanthium Scotch Thistle Spartina alterniflora Salt Water Cord Grass Senecio jacobaea Tansy Ragwort Spartina patens High Water Cord Grass Solidago Triglochin maritima Arrow Grass ulmifolia Rough-Leafed Zostera marina Eel Grass Goldenrod Tanacetum Recommended Plants for Boston vulgare Common Tansy Taraxacum Harbor Islands officinale Common Dandelion RECOMMENDED TREES Tree heights are maximum under ideal New Convolvulaceae Morning Glory Ipomoea lacunosa Small White Morning Glory England growing conditions. The relatively thin Ipomoea Common Morn­ soil and the seaside conditions will limit the purpurea ing Glory heights of trees planted on the Harbor Islands. Crusiferae Mustard Alliaria Latin Name Common Name officinalis Garlic Mustard Brassica juncea Field Mustard Acer platanoides — Norway Maple Capsella bursa- Densely branched, round head, to 90'. Small pastoris Shepherd's Purse yellow flowers in spring. Foliage beautiful Euphorbiaceae Spurge Euphorbia yellow in fall. Grows rapidly and withstands cyparissias Cypress Spurge city growing conditions. Gentianaceae Gentian Centaurium Centaury Guttiferae St. Johnswort Hypericum Acer pseudoplatanus — Sycamore Maple perforatum Common St. Open habit, to 90'. Flowers and seeds in pen- Johnswort dulus panicles. No autumn color. Especially Labiatae Mint Pycnanthemum Mountain Mint valued for seashore plantings within range Legumi nosae Pea Lathyrus of salt spray. latifolius Beach Pea Betula pendula — European White Birch Trifolium repens White Clover Pyramidal, graceful slightly pendulus Plumbaginaceae Sea Lavender Limonium nashii Sea Lavender branches, to 60’. White barked trunk with Polygalaceae Milkwort Polygala black spots. Bright yellow fall color. Grows verticillata Whorled Milkwort rapidly, but is short-lived. Ranunculaceae Buttercup Ranunculus acris Common Buttercup Rosaceae Rose Rosa Rugosa Wrinkled Rose Betula populifolia — Gray Birch or Rugosa Grows in clumps to 30’. White bark spotted Scrophulariaceae Snapdragon Linaria vulgaris Butter and Eggs with blackish marks. Grows rapidly, but is Cinquefoil short-lived. Thrives in poor soils. Solanaceae Tomato or Nightshade Solanum nigrum Common Nightshade Umbelliferae Parsley or Carrot Cicuta maculata Water-Hemlock Crataegus crusgali — Cockspur Thorn Daucus carota Wild Carrot Crataegus monogyna — Single Seed Hawthorn Urticaceae Nettle Urtica Dioica Stinging Nettle Crataegus phaenopyrum — Washington Haw­ Source: Site Survey with verification from: thorn A Field Guide to Wild Flowers; Roger Tory Peterson & Margaret McKenny; 1968; Houghton Dense with vicious thorns, to 30’. Picturesque Mifflin Company; Boston, Massachusetts. because of wide-spreading, horizontal

146 branches. White, pink, or red flowers in spring. small white flowers in May. Small red to black Cornus sericea (stolonifera) — Red Osier Conspicuous red autumn color, Cockspur cherries. Attractive to birds. Dogwood Thorn and Single Seed Hawthorn. Red fruit Shrub to 7’. Native to eastern U.S. Colorful Prunus virginiana — Chokecherry in fall and sometimes winter. Thrive in poor red bark on twigs. Small white flowers in late Shrubby, to 30'. Commonly found everywhere soils. May. White berries in summer. Good for hold­ in North America as a weed tree. Flowers ing soil in wet areas. Gleditsia triacanthos inermis — Thornless small and white in dense racemes. Black fruits ripen early summer. Attractive to birds, re­ Honey-locust Cotoneaster species — Cotoneaster sponsible for distributing seeds. Fine foliage and texture, very light shade, to Vigorous shrubs, to 18'. Flowers small and 120’. Top heavy, tendency to have a dis­ Quercus alba — White Oak white. Valued chiefly for their red fruits. Ex­ torted shape in windy locations. Profuse Broad round head, spreading branches to 90’. cellent for seaside plantings. seed pods, food for birds. Bright yellow Purplish-red autumn color. Excellent in the Cytisus scoparius — Scotch Broom autumn color. Withstands city growing con­ open. Long-lived. Deciduous dense upright shrub with ascend­ ditions. Will weather a gale. ing branches, to 6’. Mass of flowers outstand­ Ilex opaca — American Holly RECOMMENDED SHRUBS AND GROUND ing in spring and summer. Green twigs effect­ Varies in habit, leaf size and shape, to 45’. COVERS ive in winter. Easy to grow if transplanted when Evergreen, broad leafed. Male & female plants young. Amelanchier canadensis — Shad blow or Downy necessary for fall red fruit. Prefers good, well- Serviceberry drained soil. Elaeagnus species — Elaeagnus Tree or shrub, to 50’. Native to eastern United Deciduous or evergreen shrubs, to 12’. Color­ Juniperous virginiana — Eastern Red Cedar States. Small white flowers in early spring ful silvery foliage. Small yellow flowers. De­ Tall, narrow, stately, to 90'. Evergreen, before grayish, young leaves appear. Blue ciduous forms have colorful fruits that last needlelike or scalelike leaves. Fruits small fruits in early summer attractive to birds. well into winter. Fruits high enough above blue berries. Grows slowly. Survives by sea Leaves brilliant yellow in fall. snow line to provide food for birds in winter. just above high water mark. Arctostaphylos uva-ursi — Bearberry Excellent seaside plant. Malus pumila — Common Apple Evergreen ground cover, creeping vine. Na­ Picturesque with crooked trunk, to 45’. Ex­ tive throughout northern United States. Very Ilex glabra — Inkberry tremely hardy, seeds itself. Flowers white slow growing. Bronze foliage and scarlet red Native evergreen shrub, to 9’. Fruits are black suffused with pink and profuse. Fruit, out of berries in fall. Thrives in poor sandy soils and berries. Does equally well in sun or shade. cultivation, is small, a red or yellow apple. hot sun. Excellent seaside plant, can survive stiff Species cultivated for centuries, parent winds. Aronia arbutifolia — Red Chokeberry modern apple trees. Deciduous shrub, to 9’. Native to eastern Juniperus species — Junipers Picea glauca — White Spruce North America. Small white flowers in spring. Range in size from prostrate ground covers Tall symmetrical pyramidal, to 90’. Evergreen Red foliage and bright red berries in fall. to trees 1-90’. Evergreen, needlelike or scale­ needles bluish-green. Fast growing. Endures Grows in almost any soil. like needles. Fruits are small blue berries. wind in exposed areas near sea. Extremely Grows well in hot, dry, sunny locations. hardy. Aronia melanocarpa — Black Chokeberry Small deciduous shrub, V/i to 3'. Native to Pinus nigra — Austrian Pine eastern North America. Small white flowers Lonicera species — Honeysuckles Chunky, dense, to 90’. Evergreen, stiff dark in spring. Red foliage and black berries in fall. Deciduous shrubs or vine, 3-15’. Wealth of green needles. Rapid growth. Excellent wind­ Grows in almost any soil. foliage, flowers, and fruit with very little break or screen. care. Flowers vary from white to pink, yellow and red. Fruits usually red or bright yellow Berberis thunbergii — Japanese Barberry Pinus sylvestris — Scotch Pine Deciduous spreading hedge plant, to 4’. are most attractive to birds. Picturesque with open, loose branches to 75’. Thorny, vigorous in growth. Profuse flowers in Evergreen, twisted bluish green needles. Red spring. Bright red fruits remain on plant all Myrica pensylvanica — Bayberry orange mature trunk. winter. Excellent plant for poor soil. Semi-evergreen shrub, to 9’. Aromatic foliage and colorful gray or purple fruits. Grows well Pinus thunbergii — Japanese Black Pine Celastrus species — Bittersweet in dry sandy soil. Can grow well within reach Irregular growth, to 90’. Evergreen needles. Twining vines. Flowers inconspicuous. of salt spray. Best evergreen for seaside plantings. Grows Usually male and female on different plants. well within a few feet of high water mark Pachysandra terminalis — Japanese Spurge where exposed to salt water spray. Chaenomeles species — Flowering Quince One of the better evergreen ground covers. Shrubs to 6’. Bright colored flowers in early Dark lustrous leaves. Spreads rapidly. Excel­ Populus alba — White Poplar May. Most varieties are thorny. Fruits are soft lent for shady situations. Spreading, needing room to grow, to 90’. yellow and apple-like. Grow in almost any soil. Cool looking, white underside of leaves. Fast growing, short lived. Can grow in poor soil. Clethra alnilolia — Summersweet Parthenocissus quinquelolia — Virginia Creeper Deciduous native shrub, to 9’, normally Clambering deciduous vine. Leaves turn bril­ Prunus serotina — Black or Rum Cherry growing in clumps. Fragrant spikes of small liant scarlet in early fall. Fruits are small blue Graceful drooping dense branches, to 90’. white flowers in late July. Foliage excellent berries, attractive to birds. Does well in sandy Lustrous peachlike leaves. Profuse bloom of yellow to orange in fall. Excellent for seaside. areas.

1 4 7 Prunus maritima — Beach Plum Viburnum wrightii — Wright Viburnum Pyracantha coccinea — Scarlet Firethorn Dense, rounded, deciduous shrub, to 6'. Pro­ Vigorous dense shrub to 9’. White flower Rhamnus cathartica — Common Buckthorn duces blue or red fruits in late summer. clusters often 5" in diameter Profuse red Rosa rugosa — Rugosa Rose Native shrub to the seaside, growing well in fruits outstanding in fall. Russet red autumn Sambucus canadensis — American Elder thin sandy soil. foliage. Plants should be in groups to assure Vaccinium corymbosum — Highbush Blueberry cross-pollenization. Viburnum dentatum — Arrowwood Pyracantha coccinea — Scarlet Firethorn Viburnum prunifolium — Black Haw Viburnum, Deciduous spiny shrub, to 10’. Conspicuous Vitis species — Grape Viburnum wrightii — Wright Viburnum small white flowers. Bright orange berries in Deciduous climbing vigorous vine. Fruits large the fall. Attractive to birds. or small grapes, blue, black, red, or yellow. Grasses:

Rhamnus cathartica — Common Buckthorn Agrostis alba — Redtop Deciduous thorny shrub, to 18'. Vigorous Agrostls hiemalis — Hair Grass growth. Fruits are small black berries. Thrives SOME RECOMMENDED PLANTS FOR WILD­ LIFE AND FOR SEASIDE CONDITIONS Alopecurus pratensis — Meadow Foxtail Grass in poor soil. Avena fatua — Wild Oats Plants for Windbreaks Eragrostis abyssinica — Teff Rosa rugosa — Rugosa Rose Erianthus — Ravenna Grass Prickly shrub, to 6’. Single or double, white Conifers such as: Festuca elatior — Meadow Fescue or red flowers. Magenta fruits nearly 1 inch Festuca ovina — Sheep’s Fescue in diameter. Excellent for seashore plantings Juniperus virginiana — Eastern Red Cedar Picea glauca — White Spruce Hordeum vulgare — Barley where it can withstand saltwater spray with­ Panicum — Common Witch Grass out serious injury. Plnus nigra — Austrian Pine Pinus sylvestris — Scotch Pine Poaspecies — (over 100species, ex. bluegrass, meadow grass) Rosa wichuraiana — Memorial Rose Plnus thunbergil — Japanes Black Pine Procumbent dense thick vine. Grows at least Sources: A Field Guide to Trees & Shrubs; Roger Deciduous shrubs such as: 15’ a year. Small white flowers in late sum­ Tory Peterson; 1968; Houghton Mifflin Company; mer. Fruits are small and reddish. Excellent Boston, Massachusetts ground cover, especially for banks. Elaeagnus species — Elaeagnus Lonicera species — Honeysuckles “ Making Land Produce Useful Wildlife"; Far­ Rosa rugosa — Rugosa Rose Sambucus canadensis — American Elder mers Bulletin No. 2035; of Agriculture; May, Deciduous coarse textured shrub to 12’. Large Plants for Food 1969; Washington, D.C. flat clusters of small white flowers in June. Massachusetts Audubon, "One, Two, Three” ; Blue to black small berries in late summer. T rees: Edwin A. Mason; Massachusetts Audubon So­ Very attractive to birds. Vigorous growth. ciety; Lincoln, Massachusetts; January, 1965 Crataegus crusgall — Cockspur Thorn Syringa vulgaris — Common Lilac “Seaside Planting "; Donald D. Wyman; Bay Dense vigorous growing shrub to 20’. Lilac Crataegus monogyna — Single Seed Haw­ thorn State Nurseries, Inc.; North Ablngton, Massachu­ colored fragrant flowers in mid-May. setts Crataegus phaenopyrum — Washington Haw­ thorn Tamarix species — Tamarix Wyman's Gardening Encyclopedia; Donald Evergreen shrubs or small trees. Feathery Gleditsia triacanthos Inermis — Thornless Honeysuckle Wyman; 1971; The Macmillan Company; New foliage of minute scalelike leaves. Light York, New York fluffy pink flowers. Grows readily by seaside Ilex opaca — American Holly where soil often reached by saltwater spray. Juniperus virginiana — Eastern Red Cedar Malus pumila — Common Apple Vaccinium corymbosum — Highbush Blueberry Prunus serotlna — Black Cherry RECOMMENDED PLANTS FOR EROSION Tall, vigorous, deciduous shrub, to 12’. Pro­ Prunus virginiana — Chokecherry CONTROL ON THE HARBOR ISLANDS fuse fruit production, edible. Attractive to birds. Brilliant autumn color. Easy to grow. Shrubs: Arctostaphylos uva-ursi — Bearberry — Ground cover

Viburnum dentatum — Arrowwood Amelanchier canadensis — Shadblow — Ser- Celastrus species — Bittersweet — Vigorous deciduous shrub to 13’. Beautiful viceberry Twining vines white spring flowers. Red-black fruits attract­ Arctostaphylos uva-usi — Bearberry Cornus sericea (stolonlfera) — Red Osier Dog­ ive to birds. Glossy red autumn color. Quick Aronla arbutifolia — Red Chokeberry wood — Shrub to 7’ growing In almost any soil. Plants should be in Aronla melanocarpa — Black Chokeberry Cotoneaster horizontalls — Rock Spray — groups to assure cross-pollenization. Berberls thunbergil — Japanese Barberry Shrub to 5' Celastrus species — Bittersweet Juniperus horizontalis — Creeping Juniper — Viburnum prunifolium — Black Haw Viburnum Cornus sericea — Red Osier Dogwood Ground cover Vigorous deciduous shrub to 15’ frequently Elaeagnus species — Elaeagnus Lonicera henryi — Henry Honeysuckle — Twin­ grown as a small tree. White flowers in flat Ilex glabra — Inkberry ing vine clusters in spring. Blue-black fruits attractive Lonicera species — Honeysuckles Lonicera japonica Halliana’ — Hall’s Honey­ to birds. Shining red autumn color. Plants Myrica pensylvanica — Bayberry suckle — Vine should be in groups to assure cross-polleniza­ Parthenoclssusquinquefolia — Virginia Creeper Myrica pensylvanica — Bayberry — Shrub to tion. Prunus maritima — Beach Plum 9’

148 Parthenocissus quinquefolia — Virginia Phycondrys rubens other two companies and observations clearly Creeper — Climbing vine Polyslphonla lanosa mermaid's hair suggest that their passenger volumes are the Rosa wichuraiana procumbent — Memorial Porphyra umbilicalis red jabot laver most substantial among the three major com­ Rose — Dense thick vine Rhodfymenia palmata red kale panies. Mass. Bay Lines operates three boats Vitis species — Grape — Vine from Rowe's Wharf, the Nantascot, The New Sources: A Study of the Marine Resources of Boston and The Vineyard Queen. The Nantascot Grasses of the Legume family, such as Alfalfa, Quincy Bay, by W. C. Jerome, Jr., A. P. Ches- and The New Boston are both 65 ft. long and Vetch and Clover, are highly recommended. more, and C. O. Anderson; March, 1966, Division have a rated capacity of 250 passengers. The They utilize nitrogen directly from the air and of Marine Fisheries, Massachusetts Department Vineyard Queen is considerably smaller and enrich the soil. In particular Coronllla varia, of Natural Resources. carries 100 passengers. Crown Vetch, Is an ideal cover: rapid growth, A fare schedule for the various services ap­ soil enrichment, erosion control, and zero main­ A Study of the Marine Resources of Dorchester pears on Table I. It should be noted that the tenance. Bay, by A. P. Chesmore, S. A. Testaverde, and regular round trip fare between Boston and Nan­ F. P. Richards: March, 1971, Division of Marine tasket is $3.75 while the same round trip on the Fisheries, Massachusetts Department of Natural commuter boat Is $2.50 on a single trip basis or A PARTIAL LIST OF THE MOST COMMON Resources. $2.20 on a 10-trip commuter book basis. ALGAE PLANTS TABLE I LATIN NAME COMMON NAME Appendix V Family XANTHOPHYCEAE YELLOW- Massachusetts Bay Lines, Inc. BROWN ALGAE Harbor Transportation Fare Schedule Vaucheria species (1971) EXISTING SERVICES Family CHLOROPHYCEAE GREEN ALGAE Existing harbor transportation service consists TRIP CATEGORY FARE Chaetomorpha linum primarily of sightseeing cruises, Boston to Nan- Boston-Nantasket — one way — adult $2.00 Enteromorpha erecta green confetti tasket line haul service, and charter service and Boston-Nantasket — one way — child 1.50 Enteromorpha intestinalis thus at the present time is largely unrelated to Boston-Nantasket — round trip — adult 3.75 Enteromorpha linza green string lettuce the Harbor Islands. Boston-Nantasket — round trip — child 2.75 Enteromorpha prollfera silk confetti At the present time there are three principal Boston-Pemberton — single trip — one way Monostroma oxyspermum companies providing water-borne transporta­ 1.25 Rhizoclonlum tortuosum tion services in Boston Harbor: The Massachu­ Boston-Pemberton — commuter book — Ulothrix flacca setts Bay Lines, the Gray Line, and the Bay oneway 1.10 Ulva lactuca sea lettuce State-Spray Cruises. All three of these com­ 90 min. Harbor Cruise — adult 3.00 Urospora sp. panies operate from the Boston waterfront with 90 min. Harbor Cruise — child 2.00 the latter two maintaining service from Long 30 min. Lunch Boar Cruise 0.75 Family PHAEOPHYCEAEBROWN ALGAE Wharf at the foot of State Street and the Mass. Cocktail Cruise 1.25 Agarum cribrosum holed kelp Bay Line operating from nearby Rowe's Wharf. Ascophyllum mackail rock weed In addition there are one or two smaller charter The Bay State-Spray cruises operate two ves­ Ascophyllum nodosum rock weed services operating from a variety of locations on sels from their headquarters on Long Wharf. Chorda filum devil’s shoelace the Harbor. The Bay State Is a 65 ft. double-decked motor Fucus edentatus rock weed The Mass. Bay Lines maintains regularly sche­ vessel with a rated capacity of 250 passengers. Fucus evanescens rock weed duled services between downtown Boston and On weekdays this vessel is scheduled for three Fucus spiralis rock weed Nantasket Beach, as well as daily year-round Vk hour cruises and on weekends essentially Fucus vesiculosus rock weed commuter service between Boston and Pember­ the same schedule prevails although the length Laminaria agardhii kelp ton. The Boston to Nantasket service schedules of each cruise varies between 2 and 3 hours. In Laminaria digltata finger kelp six daily round trips on weekdays during the addition, a weekday lunch time cruise and a Laminaria saccharina kelp summer with an additional sailing on Saturdays cocktail hour cruise are scheduled at 12:15 Petalonia fascia and Sundays. A single commuter boat leaves and 5:30. The company also schedules two 3 Punctaria latlfolia Pemberton at 7:30 a.m. and returns from Boston hour trips on the Windjammer Spray, which is a Ralfsia fungiformls at 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. This 55 ft. sailing vessel with auxiliary diesel power. Scytosiphon lomentaria commuter service operates year-round arid is A charter service is also available with either of used by approximately 100 persons per day in the two vessels. The fares for the regularly Family RHODOPHYCEAERED ALGAE the winter. Passengers using the Boston to Nan­ scheduled weekday and weekend cruises are Chondria baileyana tasket service have access to George’s Island $3.00 for adults and $2.00 for children. Chondrus crispus Irish moss (on call) on the 10 o’clock boat. In addition to The Gray Lines has three regularly scheduled Cystoclonlum purpureum the Boston to Nantasket runs, the company also harbor cruises during the summer months. Each Dumontia incrassata schedules two Harbor tours per day, two short of these 1% hour cruises is accommodated by Halosaccion species lunch time cruises and a cocktail cruise daily the 150 passenger sightseeing yacht Sea View Hildenbrandia protoypus at 5:30 p.m. Special charter service is also avail­ and departs from Long Wharf. The Harborcruise Lithothamnium lenormandi able. While specific passenger volumes are not is operated in conjunction with the Gray Lines Lomentaria clavellosa available, the Mass. Bay Lines schedules con­ Bus Tours although tickets to the Harborcruise Petrocelis middendorfii siderably more runs per day than either of the can be purchased separately. The company also

149 TABLE II sons per day while the capacity for Deer Island is rated at 300 to 600 persons daily. The peak daily usage of the balance of the Islands in the Capacity of Major Boat Operators System is considerably less and varies from a 1971 Scheduled Trips low of 50 persons daily at Middle and Outer Brewster to 300 persons per day at Spectacle, Lovell's, Gallop’s and Great Brewster Islands. Mass. Bay Bay State Gray All The entire group of 15 Islands to be serviced Item Lines Spray Line Lines will be designed to accommodate between 6600 to 9450 per day. 1. Combined capacity of vessels 618 300 150 1068 POTENTIAL FERRY SYSTEM TRAFFIC 2. Number of regularly scheduled 8 5 3 16 Using the maximum daily usage figures the po­ harbor cruises, summer weekday, tential use of the ferry system was estimated 1971 for the proposed eight months season (April to November). In preparing this estimate, por­ 3. Estimated Total capacity per 1730 850 450 3030 tions of the potential traffic were allocated to day (i.e., 100% load factor) other transportation modes. For example, both Deer and Long Islands have access via the auto­ 4. Estimated Total capacity Sum­ 121,000 60,000 32,000 213,000 mobile and bus and it has been assumed that a mer 1971 (10 weeks, 100% load portion of the persons who will visit these two factor) Islands will come by these modes. In addition, many of the Islands will have docking facilities NOTE: Estimates include all regularly scheduled cruises except Pemberton commuter runs and spe­ for small boats and an allocation for access via cifically excludes lunch boats, cocktail boats and charter trips. this mode has also been made. Another important assumption which under­ lies the estimates is the manner in which traffic operates a 104 ft. deep-sea fishing vessel, should be noted that this is a combined total for to the Islands will be distributed over the seven Rocket It, which sails daily from Long Wharf at the three major companies but specifically ex­ days of the week. It has been assumed that the 9 a.m. cludes charter boats and the previously men­ facilities will be “saturated” on weekends dur­ tioned cocktail cruises, lunch cruises and the ing the two peak summer months and that usage EXISTING CAPACITY Boston to Pemberton commuter boat. In addi­ during the week days during this period will Since actual data on the usage of the existing tion, it also excludes the various smaller char­ average approximately 50% of capacity. Extra- Harbor transportation facilities were not avail­ ter and fishing vessels which are certainly im­ able, the passenger carrying capacity of these portant to the vitality of the Harbor but relative­ facilities was analyzed in an attempt to estimate ly unimportant in terms of total passenger load­ the approximate level of passenger activity. ings. TABLE III Schedules for the three major companies were PLANNED SERVICES examined for the peak season along with the Harbor Islands Design Capacities published capacity for the companies’ vessels. A The first step in preparing an estimate of the summary of this data appears in Table II. It can potential users of the Harbor Islands facilities be seen from this data that the total capacity and the related transportation system was an of the vessels currently operating by the three analysis of the daily peak capacities for each Desirable Maximum Island companies is approximately 1050 persons (ex­ Island which will be part of the recreational Daily Use: cluding lunch cruises, cocktail cruises and the system. The large excess of recreational demand Deer 300-600 Boston to Pemberton commuter runs). It is es­ over existing supply within the metropolitan Long 1500-2000 timated that the total daily peak season ca­ area, indicates the usage of the Harbor Islands Thompson 500-800 pacity of these three companies combined is will be directly related to the ability of the is­ Spectacle 200-300 approximately 3000 persons per day. This, lands and transportation system to accommo­ date a specific portion of the projected demand. of course, assumes that all three companies George’s 1500-2000 Table III presents a summary of the desirable would be operating under a 100% load factor Peddock’s 1500-2000 maximum daily occupancy figures for each of and since this condition is rarely, if ever, at­ Lovell’s 200-300 tainable in any transportation mode, the actual the 15 Islands which are to be served by the Gallop's 200-300 practical capacity would undoubtedly be some­ ferry system. These preliminary figures repre­ what less than this theoretical maximum sent a maximum desirable intensity of use re­ Great Brewster 200-300 figure. Extrapolating this daily capacity through lated to the particular type of developments pro­ Middle Brewster 50-100 the 10-week peak summer season results in a posed. It can be seen from the data in this Outer Brewster 50-100 maximum seasonal capacity of slightly over Table that George's, Long, and Peddock’s Is­ Calf 100-200 200,000 persons. lands are to be the most intensively developed Even though actual passenger loadings are and used Islands in the system, each with a ca­ Grape 100-150 not available for the three companies, investiga­ pacity to accommodate from 1500 to 2000 per­ Slate 100-150 tions suggest that the number of persons ac­ sons per day. Thompson Island with its pro­ Bumpkin 100-150 tually being accommodated during the 10-week posed model farm and related development is summer season is in the order of 50-75,000. It expected to accommodate from 500 to 800 per­ Total 6600-9450

150 TABLE IV polating this data to the entire two month peak period results in a total potential to the ferry system of approximately 233,500 persons. This Potential Ferry System Users amounts to an average of approximately 3700 Ultimate Development persons per day during the summer, or about 40% of the maximum design capacity. In completing these estimates for the other Island Potential Users six months of the season, it is assumed that total usage patterns during the months of June and July & June & May & April & September would be the same, and that the August Sept. Oct. Nov. TOTAL pattern would be similar for May and October and April and November. Thus during the Deer 7,750 2,945 1,705 660 13,060 months of June and September it has been es­ Long 53,320 20,250 11,730 4,530 89,840 timated that a total of 88,700 persons would Thompson 19,220 7,300 4,230 1,630 32,380 visit the Islands via the ferry system for an Spectacle 6,200 2,360 1,360 530 10,450 average of approximately 1400 persons per day George's 53,320 20,260 11,730 4,530 89,840 or 15% of the maximum designed capacity of Peddock’s 53,320 20,260 11,730 4,530 89,840 the entire system. Lovell's 6,200 2,360 1,360 530 10,450 In all, it is estimated that when the Islands Gallop’s 6,200 2,360 1,360 530 10,450 are developed in their entirety, there will be a Gr. Brewster 4,960 1,880 1,090 N.S.* 7,930 potential of 391,000 patrons for the ferry sys­ Middle Brewster 3,410 1,300 750 N.S. 5,460 tem. These estimates of potential traffic on the Outer Brewster 3,410 1,300 750 N.S. 5,460 ferry system have been utilized in structuring Calf 6,820 2,590 1,500 N.S. 10,910 schedules, estimating revenues, and reviewing Grape 3,100 1,180 680 N.S. 4,960 the economic feasibility of the Islands’ trans­ Slate 3,100 1,180 680 N.S. 4,960 portation system. Bumpkin 3,100 1,180 680 N.S. 4,960 PEAK HOUR PASSENGER LOADINGS ALL 233,430 88,715 51,335 17,470 390,950 Based on the usage projections, estimates of peak hour passenger demand were prepared "N.S. = No Service at ultimate development of the Harbor Islands System. This peak hour demand is the controll­ ing factor in determining the requirements for ferries. This information was also used in de- termining space requirements for the mainland terminals. TABLE V For the most part these estimates have been simulated using data from existing recreational facilities in and around the metropolitan area. Summary of Trip Times However, it has been assumed that the arrival rate at the terminals will be somewhat more evenly distributed over the morning hours as Dist. Run Time Stop compared to existing patterns at mainland rec­ Route Link (Nautical Mi.) (at 10 kn.) Time reational facilities. Peak hour flows on the two routes are geographically shown in Figure 2. It A. Inner Harbor Boston-Deer 4.5 27 min. 5 min is estimated that a total of 1020 passengers would Loop Deer-Long 1.0 6 5 arrive during the weekend peak hour. Approxi­ Long-Spectacle 1.5 9 5 mately 60% of these passengers would be bound Spectacle-Thompson 1.1 7 5 for the three major Islands, Long, George's and Thompson-Boston 3.7 22 10 Peddock's. It should be noted that the flows shown in Figure 2 are for the outbound direc­ TOTAL Run Time 11.8 71 min. 50 min tion only since this would control the number of vessels required. Analysis suggests that appro­ ximately 85-90% of those persons going to the B. Boston- Boston-Long 4.5 27 min. 5 min Islands would utilize the Boston Waterfront Nantasket Long-George’s 1.6 10 5 Terminal while the remaining 10-15% would George’s-Peddock’s 1.1 7 5 find the Nantasket Terminal more easily acces­ Peddock’s-Nantasket 3.7 22 10 sible. It should be noted that the Figures do not Nantasket-Peddock’s 3.7 22 5 include an estimate of Boston-Nantasket “thru Peddock’s-George’s 1.1 7 5 passengers.” George’s-Long 1.6 10 5 Long-Boston 4.5 27 10 SCHEDULE ANALYSIS In order to investigate the economic feasibility TOTAL Run Time 21.8 132 min. 50 min. of the proposed transportation system for the

151 during the peak period and the proposed maximum one hour headway. For the Dorchester Bay Loop, estimated peak hour demand is ap­ proximately 300 passengers and, thus, the one hour headway requirement would just satisfy peak period demands. On the Boston to Nantasket line, however, peak hour demands exceed the passenger carrying capacity for the maximum one hour headways and a detailed analysis shows that 30 minute headways would be required during portions of the summertime weekend days. The schedule as structured in this preliminary planning study (see Table VI) would result in a total of 29 round trips per day to the Islands (12 on the Inner Harbor route and 17 on the Boston to Nantasket run) on summer weekends. This would be re­ duced to 21 trips during the months of June and September and, finally, to 13 round trips per day for the remaining four months of the projected season. Analysis of the total projected passenger load and the preliminary schedule shows the average load during the summer months to be 134 passengers or 45% of capacity. This drops off to 69 passengers (23%) for June and Sep­ tember, and averages 44 passengers or 15% dur­ ing the other 4 months. Overall, as structured, this would result in an annual average loading of 85 passengers (load factor equals .28 for the year).

BOAT REQUIREMENTS Vessels required forthe proposed Harbor Islands Ferry System will be related to the schedule which is finally adopted, the vessel capacity and operating speed. For purposes of this analysis it has been assumed that vessels of conven­ tional design with a capacity of 300 passen­ gers and an average cruising speed of 10 knots Harbor Islands, a simulated schedule of service discussed, the estimated trip times for the various would be utilized. was assumed for the various seasons of the year. links on each route are summarized in Table V. Little detailed investigation has been done re­ This scheduling has been based upon certain Here again, certain assumptions were made. garding the possibility of more sophisticated assumptions. First and foremost, a high level of First, it has been assumed that the time con­ vessels (such as hydrofoils or air-cushion ve­ service will be necessary in order to guarantee sumed during Island stops will average five hicles). The existing limitations on their use, that the transportaion system is not a major minutes, that 10 minutes will be required for such as their high cost, relatively low passen­ restraint to the success of the Islands Park Sys­ loading and unloading passengers at the two ger capacity, and high maintenance require­ tem. A high level of service is an important mainland terminals and that the vessel will ments, would most certainly limit their applica­ factor in all modes of transportation, but It Is average a speed of 10 knots. It can be seen from tion for use in the Harbor Islands System. For critical for a ferry system, since alternate the data summarized In Table V that the entire this reason, such exotic transportation forms means of transportation to and from the Islands Dorchester Bay trip could be made in 91 minutes. have not received serious consideration. will not be available. If departures from the Allowing another 10 minutes for loading of pas­ On the other hand, there are some potential Central Terminal were relatively Infrequent, the sengers, the minimum headway with a single savings to be gained In the operation of the patron would know that he might have to wait vessel would be approximately 1 hr. and 20 system if some substantial improvement could three hours if he misses the 9 o'clock boat, and minutes. On the Boston to Nantasket run, a be made over the current operating speed of 10 would be less likely to venture out for a day complete round trip would consume close to knots. This savings would result from a reduc­ trip. Similarly, he must be assured that there will 3 hours. tion in the total number of vessels that would be frequent service on the return portion of the Another factorforconsideratlon in structuring be required and a concomitant reduction in the trip since being stranded on an Island over­ the schedules was peak hour demand. Since it number of operating crews. It should be empha­ night will not be an attractive possibility to has been assumed that the vessels to be used on sized that the improvement in operating speed most persons. This philosophy has resulted in a the system would be of a conventional design is desirable strictly from an economic point of desirable maximum headway of sixty minutes with carrying capacity in the order of 300 pas­ view and it is not likely that increasing the during the summer peak periods. sengers, it was necessary to analyze the rela­ speed would have a significant impact upon Following the route alignments as previously tionship between estimated passenger volumes usage of the system and the Harbor Islands.

152 It is recommended that final design and en­ TABLE VI gineering phases of the Harbor Islands Study should include some effort aimed at producing a ferry designed to operate at 15 knots. Preliminary Schedule Analysis A total of seven 300 passenger vessels would be required to handle peak period demand and conform to the schedule which is summarized in Period Table VI. These vessels would be designed for July and June and May and April and passengers only and would not accommodate Item August Sept. Oct. November motor vehicles. They would be of conventional design similar to the vessels now used by Mass. A. Inner Harbor Loop Bay Lines in Boston and the Casco Bay Lines 1. First Boat Lv. Boston 8:00a.m. 8:00a.m. 8:00a.m. 8:00a.m. in Portland, Maine. Current prices for such ves­ 2. Headway during day 60 min. 60-120 min. 120 min. 120 min sels now run in the order of $125-150,000. For 3. Last Boat Lv. Boston 9:00p.m. 8:00p.m. 6:00p.m. 6:00p.m estimating purposes a cost of $200,000 has been 4. Last Boat Ret. Boston 10:40p.m. 9:40p.m. 7:40p.m. 7:40p.m used. This additional $50,000 accounts for a sub­ 5. Total # Round Trips 12 9 6 6 stantial safety factor to accommodate future B. Boston-Nantasket Line price inflation. Passenger loading projections 1. First Boat Lv. Boston 8:00a.m. 8:00a.m. 8:00a.m. 8:00a.m. suggest that ultimately, at least one of the ves­ 2. Headway during day 30-60 min 60-120 min. 90 min. 90 min. sels should be in the 500-700 passenger capacity 3. Last Boat Lv. Boston 8:00p.m. 8:00p.m. 5:00p.m. 5:00p.m range for use in peak periods. However, it is 4. Last Boat Ret. Boston 11:00p.m. 11:00p.m. 8:00p.m. 8:00p.m not anticipated that such a vessel would be re­ 5. Total # Round Trips 13(a) 11(b) 7 7 quired during the initial development phases of the program. (a) 17 round trips per day on weekends Three smaller boats with capacities ranging (b) 12roundtripsperdayonweekends between 50 and 75 passengers would be neces­ sary to support the "small island routes” to serve Lovell’s, Gallop’s, the Brewsters and the TABLE VII Hingham Islands. Estimated System Cost LABOR COSTS A major assumption in the estimation of labor cost has been that the entire operation would be non-union. Thus, in terms of the make-up of Item Estimated System Cost the ferry crews, it is assumed that a licensed Captain and 2-3 deck hands would be required I Labor on each boat. Two deck hands have been as­ A. Direct Operating sumed during off-peak periods while an addi­ (1) Main Routes 165,000 tional deck hand has been included during the (2) Small Boat Loops 72,800 weekend summer peaks. Hourly rates for the 237,800 237,800 estimate have been $6.50 for the Captain and B. Administration 52,200 $3.50 for the deck hands. These rates are ap­ SUBTOTAL 290,000 proximately 10% higher than current prevail­ II Amortization of Capital ing wage schedules. An additional 10% has been A. Seven 300 passenger ferries 130,000 included to cover Social Security and direct pay­ B. Three50-70passengervessels 18,300 roll costs. 148,300 148.300 It has been assumed that an administrative III Insurance 70.000 staff (i.e. private contractor) would be required IV Fuel, Maintenance and Repair 75.000 to supervise operations and costs for this func­ V Office and Misc. Supplies 5,000 tion have been estimated as follows: VI Professional Fees (auditing, etc.) 10.000 Director $25,000 per year SUBTOTAL 598.300 Asst. Director — $15,000 per year VII Profit (10%) 60,000 Secretary — $7,500 per year TOTAL 658.300 Total direct operating labor for the entire eight month season is estimated at $290,000 per year (see Table VII). This does not include the cost of CAPITAL COSTS each of the seven 300 passenger ferries and fare collection at the Boston and Nantasket Capital costs allocated to the ferry system have $60,000 for each of the small boats. The total Terminals since it is felt that this function been limited to “rolling stock.” It has been cost has been amortized over a period of 15 should be retained by the controlling public assumed that capital costs for the construction years for the hulls and 5 years for the power agency which would retain all operating in­ of the mainland and Island docking facilities plants. Current practice is a 20 year amortization come under the proposed management scheme. would be underwritten by the public agency. period for hulls for income tax purposes. The It should be noted that approximately It is estimated that the total annual cost for actual annual amortization cost for the vessels $73,000 of the direct operating cost is allocated the 10 vessels would amount to $148,300. This may be related somewhat to the terms of the to the three small boat loops. is based upon a purchase price of $200,000 for service contract.

153 MISCELLANEOUS COSTS small boat surcharge would amount to an addi­ be generated without additional operating costs. On the basis of conversations with a leading tional $1.00, which appears to be a more The potential certainly exists to accommodate marine insurer and the experience of compar­ reasonable figure. a variety of group users In addition to low or able ferry operations, it is estimated that in­ All of the total costs and resulting unit costs moderate income families. surance costs would amount to approximately per passenger are based upon complete de­ $70,000 per year. This includes a generous al­ velopment of the Islands Recreational System ADMINISTRATIVE SYSTEM lowance for both property damage and liability and it is likely that operating deficits would Of the wide range of alternatives which exists, insurance. Actual insurance costs could vary result (based upon the $1.50 fare) during the ini­ a simple service type contract with a private significantly from this figure and would de­ tial development phases. Close coordination carrier would be the most effective medium for pend upon the experience of the operator, between the development and transportation purchasing the transportation services neces­ qualifications of the crews; the ferry design and functions during the development phases could sary. A public bidding process would necessarily many other factors. The $70,000 figure is more minimize initial operating deficits. The most be Involved. Bid specification by the Public than three times the Insurance cost for a com­ important factor in minimizing these deficits Agency should include the following major parable operation on the East Coast and it is would be the order in which the various Islands items: thus felt to be on the conservative side. The con­ are developed. Ideally, the larger and more in­ (a) A predetermined (but not Inflexible) trolling public agency should investigate the tensely developed Island should be developed operating schedule. possibility of lowering the insurance cost by as­ first as a means of optimizing transportation (b) Number and type of vessels to be provided. suming insurance costs covering serious Injury costs and revenues. (c) Crew and safety requirements. or death while leaving Insurance coverage for (d) Insurance coverage. minor injury or property damage (i.e. nuisance The type of contract could vary but an alter­ claims) to the contractor. An additional $90,000 native which appears advantageous would be a LOW MODERATE INCOME USERS per year has been allocated for fuel, maintenance simple lump sum contract for providing a spe­ The use of the Islands Park System by low and and repairs; office and miscellaneous supplies cified amount of service. The bidders could fix moderate income families in the region’s core and professional fees. Finally, it is assumed that their total cost and unit cost per run in the bid cities has been a major goal of the plan. The the private operators should maintain a before­ and include a fixed fee for overhead and profit. initial economic analysis has shown that a fare taxes level of profit of 10% of operating costs Schedule adjustments (due to weather or other level of $1.50 (round trip) is possible on a non- which amounts to another $60,000 per year. factors) could affect total reimbursement to the subsidlzed basis (excluding capital and main­ contractor based on his unit cost per run. DNR tenance costs for the landing facilities) and this could then fix and collect fares from the users UNIT COST is considerably below current fare levels for and cover any initial deficits with a budget The total operating budget as presented in harbor tours. For a family of four this $6.00 item. In order to reduce the impact of equip­ Table VII amounts to some $658,000 per year. total transportation cost is less than one half ment amortization, a contract term longer than If these total costs were evenly divided amongst of the existing $13.00 cost for a round-trip ex­ one year would be advisable. A three year con­ the projected total passenger load (ap­ cursion between Boston and Nantasket. How­ tract term with built in flexibility for proximately 391,000 passengers peryear) a unit ever, it should be recognized that even the annual schedule changes would minimize the uncer­ cost of $1.68 per passenger would result lower rate (I.e. $6.00) can be prohibitive for tainty which might otherwise result in high (round trip). This, of course, assumes a single families in the low income ranges. A large po­ amortization of the vessels by the bidders. fare for transportation to all of the Islands. tential exists to provide service to these per­ Another aspect of the operation which should Furthermore, it does not take Into consideration sons at nominal rates (or even free of charge) be explored in depth concerns insurance which additional revenue which might be gained by without raising system operating costs. is both costly and sometimes difficult to acquire. through service from Boston to Nantasket. As previously noted, the system has been de­ It is possible that significant savings might re­ It should be noted that the incremental cost signed with a high level of service provided (i.e. sult if the responsibility for providing Insurance of providing service to the smaller and less in­ frequent headways). This means that a very coverage against serious injury and death could tensely used Islands via the small boats is a large surplus of capacity is available particularly be assumed by the State rather than its con­ significant and important part of the total cost. in offpeak periods. DNR could take advantage tractor. This might be part of a package liabil­ Excluding the small boat cost would reduce of this surplus capacity by scheduling group ity policy covering both the operation of the the average costs per passenger to $1.34. As trips during off-peak periods. These could be ferries and the landing facilities. previously noted, this specifically excludes fare sponsored by community service, charitable and collection costs and capital maintenance costs religious organizations and accommodated on for the mainland and the offshore landings. It regularly scheduled ferry runs and thus will also excludes any additional income which not require major additional operating costs. might be derived from Boston to Nantasket Some additional administrative costs would be Appendix VI through passengers, on-board food and Incurred and functionally this would best be beverage concessions, terminal concessions or managed by DNR staff rather than the ferry charter trips. If the small boat loops were re­ contract. Costs quired to be self-supporting, a fare surcharge Given the preliminary schedule already dis­ of $1.92 (i.e. In addition to the basic $1.34 fare cussed, there will be about a one million pas­ Development costs for the individual Island to the transfer point), would be necessary. It senger capacity surplus which could be utilized plans have been prepared by the MAPC from a seems logical to plan for some additional fare for this purpose. A very nominal fee would cover variety of sources, including published unit cost surcharge for passengers transferring to the administrative costs incurred by DNR. data, current cost information from local con­ small boat loops although the $1.92 Incremental Special group rates could also be established tractors, equipment catalogues, and the costs of cost does appear to be prohibitive. Analysis of for other groups (school children, scouting or­ MDC and DNR projects that are applicable to this data suggests that if the main line fare were ganizations, etc.) and by scheduling these trips the Island plans. Actual bid prices received by maintained at a $1.50 level (I.e. round trip), the in off peak periods, additional revenue could the Massachusetts Department of Public Works

154 and information from marine contractors were quate and are more readily available on Long Is­ used to develop costs for seawall and pier con­ land. A water main and electric cable running struction. Costs for barge removal were ob­ underwater from Long Island across Gallop’s tained from the draft of the U.S. Army Corps of and Lovell’s to George's Island are assumed for Engineers “Debris Removal Study” and from in­ purposes of cost estimation. Final cost estimates formation provided by marine contractors. and exact location depend on more detailed de­ Costs for transportation of material and work­ sign. men were obtained from various marine trans­ Cost estimates for sewage disposal on these port companies working in the Harbor. three Islands were based on the utilization of septic tanks. The exact location of leaching Fortification Renovation. The renovation and fields, exact costs, and final feasibility will de­ restoration of the various historic forts in Boston pend on detailed engineering studies and de­ Harbor presented a special cost estimation signs. problem. While these structures represent a major man-made resource, they show the dam­ Peddock's Island. Cost estimates for the provi­ age of years of neglect. Costs for their reno­ sion of utilities on Peddock's Island are based vation were based on several assumptions. It upon the replacement of an antiquated water was assumed that full restoration or renovation line and the installation of a new electric cable would be reserved for the most significant of the from Hough's Neck in Quincy. The provision of forts while limited steps would be taken at the these services from Pemberton Point in Hull majority of the sites. Limited renovation would was considered, but due to the deep rock chan­ include only such measures as would be neces­ nel and swift currents the Hough’s Neck alter­ sary to render the forts safe and arrest the forces native is more feasible and less costly. of decay. Additional more detailed cost esti­ Cost estimates for sewage disposal were mates would be prepared during the implemen­ based on the utilization of septic tanks. The tation of the comprehensive plan for each Island exact location of leaching fields, exact costs, fort. On the basis of these assumptions two and final feasibility will depend on detailed levels of cost were estimated. The first cost is for engineering studies and designs. limited renovation, necessary to render the forts safe. This cost was based on published unit cost Thompson Island. Thompson’s Academy is cur­ data and rough estimates of the number of units rently preparing to install a new electric cable needing renovation at each fort. The second from Squantum. When completed, the Island cost is for full renovation and was based on will be adequately served with utilities. MDC experience on George’s Island. Other Islands. Small islands in the Harbor will not be supplied with water or electricity. Sani­ Utilities. The provision of electricity and water tary facilities will be provided by chemical to the Islands was also considered as a major toilets. cost that is subject to more detailed estimates during the implementation of the plans for those Islands to be serviced. The preliminary estimates of these costs were based on the analysis of a variety of alternatives and assump­ tions.

Gallop’s, Lovell's, and George's Islands. All three of these Islands are planned to be inten­ sively used and will need water and electricity. George’s Island is currently serviced with water from Hull by an old Army pipeline. This line has developed leaks over the years and attempts to repair it have proven that replacement is needed. Gallop’s and Lovell’s Islands currently have no water or electric services. This preliminary analysis considered two al­ ternatives for the provision of water and electricity to these three Islands. The first is to replace the existing service from Hull with new water and electricity lines, and extend those lines to Lovell’s and Gallop’s Islands. The second is to provide new service from Long Island. Because of the deep channel between Hull and George's Island, supply from Long Is­ land is considered more feasible and less costly. Preliminary investigations indicate that both water and electric capacity appear to be ade­

155 Phase I 1972-1975

Project Utilities Building

Project Area Dredging water rehab Clear & Grub Paved Areas Revetment Pier Roads demolition Seawall electric Barge Barge Removal sewer construction furnishing

Boston 627,000 500,000 Long Wharf

Bumpkin 21,400 2,800

Calf 800

Castle

Deer 139,200 341,900

Gallop's 9,600 27,500 89,800 155,400 85,200 135,800

George’s 7,400 1,300 90,000

Grape 7,000

Great Brewster 600 82,500 8,400

Hlngham Harbor 800 1,300 Islands

Long 41,400 147,400 437,000 30,200 150,000 601,200

Lovell’s 8,900 •12,400 5,400 46,500 26,400

Middle 600 Brewster

Moon 37,500 27,800 86,300 12,400

Nantasket 143,800 100,000

Nut

Outer 700 43,800 Brewster

Peddock's 53,500 41,600 216,000 204,600 214,800 39,000 774,500 270,600 235,200

Raccoon

Rainsford 3,400

Slate

Spectacle 10,400 2,300 44,000 15,000

Thompson 48.400 46,600 1,900 182,800

Total Phase 1 193,200 27,500 92,100 12,400 1,425,900 523,300 42,600 216,000 306,100 214,800 741,000 864,500 1,805,400 235,200 Cost

156 Description

Agency with Prime Total Phase 1 Financial Cost Responsibility Signs Transportation to Island Miscellaneous Renovation Equipment Planting Fortification Trails Excavation Grading Seeding

DNR $1,127,000

7,800 2,800 6,300 1,300 3,800 4,700 DNR 50,900

200 5,000 DNR 6,000

16,100 460,400 8,800 MDC-FED 485,300

149,500 61,500 63,100 158,500 28,400 2,800 MDC-FED 944,900

69,600 19,000 4,800 18,100 6,000 9,500 MDC 630,300

11,500 566,700 49,100 8,800 6,800 MDC-FED 741,600

3,400 4,600 17,500 4,800 4,700 DNR 42,000

1,400 2,800 100 6,300 6,800 DNR 108,900

1,700 2,800 100 13,500 4.700 HINGHAM-DNR-FED 24,900

83,800 45,900 233,000 119,300 12,400 587,000 DNR-BOSTON 2,488,600

37,900 13,500 162,800 34,900 8,000 4,700 MDC-FED 361,400

1,200 DNR 1.800

14,600 13,200 15.200 5,500 19,700 DNR-BOSTON 232,200

DNR 243,800

23,000 100 MDC 23,100

1,100 6,800 DNR 52.400

229,500 63,300 4,500 7,900 9,000 8,100 MDC 2,372,100

4,300 DNR 4,300

100 3,800 4,700 DNR-BOSTON 12,000

0

4,700 52,800 DNR-BOSTON 129,200

5,300 6,900 22,300 8,300 9,500 18,700 DNR 350,700

494,300 256,800 220,100 1,581,400 314,600 111,100 75,700 679,400 10,433,400

157 Phase II 1976-1980

Project Utilities Building

Project Area Roads Pier Paved Areas water Dredging Clear & Grub Barge Removal Seawall demolition rehab Revetment sewer electric construction furnishing Boston Long Wharf

Bumpkin 37,500 25,300 26,900

Calf 20,500 19,400

Castle

Deer 57,500 44,700 19,400 25,300 46,500 125,800

Gallop’s 9,600 38,800 6.900 167,200 46,600 186,400 131,800

George’s

Grape 10,400 29,000 24,400

Great Brewster 151,000 19,600 10,000

Hingham Harbor Islands

Long 16,500 54,600 50.500 26,800 154,900 27,100 225,800 96,000

Lovell's 201,500

Middle 10,300 8,400 10,000 Brewster

Moon 94,500

Nantasket

Nut 13,600 3,100 87,500

Outer 40,300 37,500 11,500 Brewster

Peddock’s 32,100 174,500 516,400 180,500 157,000

Raccoon

Rains ford 70,100 13,700 16,900

Slate 10,700

Spectacle

Thompson 274,200

Total Phase II 79,300 40,300 395,600 200,900 112,100 105,200 213,400 272,000 260,000 245,400 612,400 ,203,400 157,000 Cost

158 Description

Agency with Prime Total Phase II Financial Cost Responsibility Signs Miscellaneous Transportation to Island Renovation Equipment Trails Planting Fortification Seeding Excavation Grading

0

7,800 700 9,400 1,000 4,700 DNR 113,300

1,900 1,100 4,700 1,200 DNR 48,800

1,133,000 MDC-FED 1,133,000

249,200 61,500 37,900 158,500 28,400 2,800 MDC-FED 857,500

69,600 6,300 4,800 18,100 1,500 9,500 MDC 697,100

28,800 1,258,000 5,300 6,800 MDC-FED 1,298,900

900 6,900 4,700 DNR 76,300

21,400 6,800 DNR 208,800

0

276,400 50,100 5,700 77,700 119,300 3,100 DNR-BOSTON 1,184,500

9,500 8,700 3,400 97,900 34,900 2,000 4,700 MDC-FED 362,600

1,400 1,100 2,400 1,300 6,800 DNR 41,700

DNR-BOSTON 94,500

0

2,900 MDC 107,100

1,700 36,700 2,400 5,000 9,500 1,200 DNR 145,800

229,500 21,200 11,300 114,100 7,900 6,000 9,500 50,000 MDC 1,510,000

e

2,200 4,700 DNR-BOSTON 107,800

1,200 6,900 100 4,800 4,700 DNR 28,400

178,200 1,900 23,700 14,400 7,000 4,700 DNR-BOSTON 229,900

12,300 6,900 22,300 5,500 5.400 DNR 326,600

1,020,200 203,700 119,100 2,897,300 250,200 45,300 87,200 52,400 8,572,400

159 Phase III 1981-1990

Project Utilities Building

Project Area Seawall Roads rehab Clear & Grub Revetment Pier Paved Areas water Barge Barge Removal sewer electric demolition Dredging construction furnishing Boston Long Wharf

Bumpkin 53,600 89,200

Calf 80,500

Castle

Deer

Gallop’s

George’s

Grape 17,400 40,300 56,100

Great Brewster 40,300

Hingham Harbor Islands

Long 24,900 994,100 54,600 20,400 413,100 1,075,000

Lovell’s 40,300

Middle 40,300 Brewster

Moon

Nantasket

Nut

Outer Brewster

Peddock's 21,400 174,500

Raccoon

Rainsford

Slate

Spectacle 76,300 94,500 379,700 8,400

Thompson 146,500 95,500

Total Phase III 117,300 76,300 347,900 1,544,200 379,700 54,600 20,400 0 8,400 0 413,100 0 1,075,000 0 Cost

160 Description

Agency with Total Prime Total Phase III Project Cost Financial Cost (All Phases) Responsibility Planting Equipment Grading Seeding Excavation Fortification Renovation Signs Transportation to Island Trails Miscellaneous

$1,127,000

7,800 15,700 4,700 DNR 171,000 335,200

DNR 80,500 135,300

1,163,400 MDC-FED 1,163,400 2,781,700

99,700 25,200 MDC 124,900 1,927,300

0 1,327,400

838,700 3,500 6,800 MDC-FED 849,000 2,889,500

11,500 4,100 DNR 129,400 247,700

DNR 40,300 358,000

0 24,900

513,400 33,500 5,700 77,700 DNR-BOSTON 3,212,400 6,885,500

64,900 4,700 MDC 109,900 833,900

DNR 40,300 83,800

0 326,700

0 243,800

0 130,200

0 198,200

21,200 6,800 114,100 23,700 4,100 MDC 365,800 4,247,900

0 4,300

0 119,600

0 28,400

4,500 23,700 4,700 DNR-BOSTON 591,800 950,900

242,000 919,300

620,900 59,200 88,600 2,258,800 23,700 3,500 29,100 0 7,120,700 26,126,500

161 Appendix VII Said acquiring agency Is further authorized to one, three and six of this act, including all acquire by gift or otherwise any island, islet, expenses In connection therewith. To meet the rocks, flat land or portion thereof in Boston expenditures necessary in carrying out the pro­ Chap. 742 of the Acts of the Harbor owned by any city or town or agency visions of this act, the state treasurer shall, Massachusetts Legislature, 1970 of the federal government. upon request of the governor, Issue and sell Section 2. The acquiring agency shall desig­ at public or private sale bonds of the common­ An Act providing for the acquisition of the Is­ nate such lands located in, under or bordering wealth, registered or with interest coupons at­ lands in Boston Harbor by the Department of Boston Harbor south of a line drawn from Castle tached, as he may deem best, to an amount to Natural Resources for the purposes of recrea­ island to the neck of Deer Island which are be specified by the governor from time to time, tion and conservation. owned or under the control of any department, but not exceeding, in the aggregate, the sum of Be it enacted, etc., as follows: commission or agency of the commonwealth three million five hundred thousand dollars. All Section 1. The department of natural re­ and which are not actually being used as the bonds issued by the commonwealth, as aforesaid, sources, hereinafter referred to as the acquiring site of a public facility, to be thereafter under shall be designated on their face, Boston Har­ agency, is hereby authorized in the name of the the control of the acquiring agency for the pur­ bor Islands Acquisition, Act of 1970 and shall be commonwealth to take by eminent domain un­ poses of this act. on the serial payment plan for such maximum der the provisions of chapter seventy-nine or Section 3. Lands acquired by or transferred term of years, not exceeding twenty years, as the chapter eight A of the General Laws, or acquire to the acquiring agency shall be held and main­ governor may recommend to the General by gift, purchase or otherwise, the fee or any tained for the purposes of this act under a pro­ Court pursuant to Section 3 of Article LXII of lesser interest, for the purposes of recreation gram of maintenance and Improvement pending the Amendments to the Consitutlon of the Com­ and conservation under a program described in the completion and approval of a comprehen­ monwealth, the maturities thereof to be so ar­ section three, such privately owned Islands or sive plan for the area and its approval by the ranged that the amounts payable In the several portions of Islands as are hereinafter named and general court, and the acquiring agency may years of the period of amortization other than the such other property as may be necessary or ex­ expend such sums as may be provided by sec­ final year shall be as nearly equal as in the pedient therefore: Thompson, Spectacle, Ped- tion four of this act for the development, re­ opinion of the state treasurer It Is practicable docks, Gallops, Bumpkin, Greater Brewster, development, construction and improvement of to make them. Said bonds shall bear interest Middle Brewster, Outer Brewster, Calf, Little outdoor recreation areas and associated facilities semiannually at such rate as the state treasurer, Calf, Green, Raccoon, Hangman, Grape, Slate, on lands acquired or transferred to it under this with the approval of the governor, shall fix. Sheep together with islets, rocks, and flats ad­ act. The initial maturities of such bonds shall be pay­ jacent thereto, provided that existing private Section 4. The acquiring agency is hereby able not later than one year from the date of uses not inconsistent with the purposes of this authorized and directed to expend a sum not issue thereof, and the entire issue not later than act may be permitted to continue subject to to exceed three million five hundred thousand June the thirtieth, nineteen hundred and ninety- periodic review. dollars to carry out the provisions of sections nine. Seventy-five per cent of all interest pay­ ments and payments on account of principal on such obligations shall be paid from the metro­ politan parks district fund, to be assessed by methods fixed by law, and the balance shall be paid from the State Recreation Areas Fund, to be assessed by methods fixed by law. Section 5. The acquiring agency shall have authority to contract with agencies of the federal government for the receipt of funds. Section 6. The acquiring agency shall prepare comprehensive plans to carry out the purpose of this act, may engage such consultants as are necessary and shall submit the results of its in­ vestigation, study and planning to the general court. Section 7. The provisions of this act are here­ by declared to be severable and if any such pro­ vision or the application of such provision to any person or circumstances shall be held to be in­ valid or unconstitutional, such invalidity or un­ constitutionality shall not be construed to affect the validity or constitutionality of any of the re­ maining provisions of said sections or the ap­ plication of such provision to persons or cir­ cumstances other than those as to which it is held invalid. It is hereby declared to be the legis­ lative intent that said sections would have been adopted had such invalid or unconstitutional pro­ visions not been included therein. Section 8. This act shall not be construed to limit the power or authority of any department,

162 board or commission of the commonwealth or of Page 19 Page 54 any political subdivision thereof or any public Cormorants & Gulls. View of Jet Plane over Long Island. authority except where expressly provided other­ Robert J. Joseph William D. Giezentanner wise herein; provided, however, that in, under Rabbit. Remains of Fort Strong — Long Island. or bordering Boston Harbor there shall be no ac­ Courtesy of Massachusetts Audubon Society Robert J. Joseph quisition of land by any such public agency or Charles Schwartz, Photographer Page 55 instrumentality other than the acquiring agency Monarch Butterfly. Curley Building — Long Island. without the approval of the acquiring agency, Courtesy of Massachusetts Audubon Society William D. Giezentanner and no public land on or bordering said area Allen H. Morgan, Photographer Page 57 may be sold, leased or used as a dump or refuse Young Herons. Aerial View of Moon Island. disposal area, and no sand, gravel or soil may Courtesy of Massachusetts Audubon Society MAPC be removed therefrom ordeposited thereon, and Marsh — Thompson Island. Page 58 no structure may be built thereon, without the William D. Giezentanner Moon Island Holding Tanks. approval of the acquiring agency. Page 20 Robert J. Joseph Section 9. For the purposes of this act, Boston Tide Pools — Calf Island. View of City of Boston Fire Department Training Harbor shall be defined as that portion of the William D. Giezentanner School — Moon Island. Robert J. Joseph Page 21 body of water shown on chart 246, 32d ed., Page 61 Feb. 26, 1968, “Boston Harbor,” U.S. Coast Historic Chart of Boston Harbor. Reprinted with Open Field and Old Barn — Thompson Island. permission of Bostonian Society, Old State and Geodetic Survey, which lies to the west of William D. Giezentanner a line beginning at the tower on Allerton Hill House Fishing Boat. Group of Farm Buildings — Thompson Island. in the town of Hull, thence running to the Barbara J. Bernard Robert J. Joseph eastern most point on Outer Brewster island, Dump Area — Thompson Island. Rotting Dock — Gallop's Island. thence running to the Graves lighthouse, and Barbara J. Bernard which lies to the south of a line beginning at the Barbara J. Bernard Graves lighthouse, thence running to the most Old Pilings — Calf Island. Page 64 northwesterly point of Deer island, thence run­ William D. Giezentanner View of Dock at Thompson Island. ning to the most northerly point of Spectacle Page 23 Robert J. Joseph island, thence running to the monument on the Historic View of Fort Strong on Long Island. Marsh Area — Thompson Island. northeasterly shore at Fort Independence, Courtesy of Gerald Butler Elissa M. Landre Castle island in the South Boston district of the Fort Dawes — Deer Island. Page 67 Reprinted with city of Boston. Robert J. Joseph Aerial View of Spectacle Island. Approved August 22, 1970 Page 25 permission from Yankee Magazine, published in MDC Sewage Treatment Plant — Deer Island. Dublin, N.H. Copyright 1972 William D. Giezentanner Page 68 Page 27 View of Remains of Rendering Plant — Spectacle Photographs View of City of Boston Skyline with Debris in Island. William D. Giezentzanner Foreground. Robert J. Joseph View of Dump Area — Spectacle Island. Page 6 Page 30 William D. Giezentanner View of City of Boston Skyline & Coast Guard Langlee Island — Hingham Harbor. Page 72 Training Ship, Eagle. Robert J. Joseph William D. Giezentanner Page 36 Fort Independence — Castle Island with monu­ Page 10 View from Calf Island to Great Brewster with Example of Recommended type of Ferry Boat. ment to William McKay, "Father of the Clipper "A Buyer’s Guide to Passenger Boats.” Blout Ship." Robert J. Joseph Boston Light in background. Robert J. Joseph Marine Corp. McCorkle Fishing Pier — Castle Island. Page 14 Page 38 William D. Giezentanner View of Boston — July 4, 1870. View of Boston Waterfront, at Long Wharf Area. View of Fort Independence and Containerized Reprinted with permission of State Street Bank Robert J. Joseph Shipping Area — Castle Island. William D. Page 16 Page 45 Giezentanner View of Nix's Mate & Deer Island light as seen Aerial View of Deer Island. from Gallop's Island. Barbara J. Bernard Page 76 MAPC Squaw Rock. Page 48 Aerial View of Fort Warren and George's Is­ MAPC Staff Photo Aerial View of Lon§ Island. land. Reprinted with permission from Yankee Page 18 Kenichi Nakane Magazine, published in Dublin, N.H. Copyright Willows — Calf Island. View of Fort Strong and Outer Harbor as seen 1972 William D. Giezentanner from Long Island Head. Etissa M. Lartdre Sumac — Bumpkin Island. Page 77 Page 49 Dock at George's Island. William □. Giezentanner Civil War Memorial — Long Island. William D. Giezentanner Poison Ivy — Bumpkin Island. William D. Giezentanner View of Dry Moat Surrounding Fort Warren — William D. Giezentanner Pine Grove — Long Island. George's Island. William D. Giezentanner Wild Roses — Grape Island. William D. Giezentanner — William D. Giezentanner Page 52 Broken Seawall below Fort Warren George's Mixed Hardwoods — Thompson Island. Panorama of Rainsford Island. Island. William D. Giezentanner Robert J. Joseph William D. Giezentanner Page 78 Thistle — Outer Brewster. Beer Can Litter — Rainsford Island. Aerial View of Gallop's Island. Barbara J. Bernard William D. Giezentanner MAPC

163 Page 79 Page 106 Chesmore, Arthur P., Testaverde, Salvatore Remains of Dock and Power Plant — Gallop's View Along Beach — Sheep Island. A., and Richards, F. Paul, A Study o f the Island. Robert J. Joseph William D. Giezentanner Marine Resources of Dorchester Bay, View Along Beach at Gallop’s Island. Page 109 Division of Marine Fisheries, Depart­ Barbara J. Bernard Panorama of the Islands of Hingham Harbor. Page 80 William D. Giezentanner ment of Natural Resources, Common­ Aerial View of Lovell’s Island Page 110 wealth of Massachusetts, Monograph MAPC Beach at Langlee Island. Series No. 10, March, 1971. Page 81 Barbara J. Bernard Crosby, Irving B., Boston Through the View of Large Bunker — Lovell's Island. Page 139 William D. Giezentanner Eastern Phoebe and Young. Courtesy of Massa­ Ages, Cambridge: The Murray Printing Page 87 chusetts Audubon Society — Alvah W. Sanborn, Company, 1928. Eroding Drumlin — Great Brewster Island. Photographer Drury, William H., J r ..Studies of the Herring William D. Giezentanner Page 141 Gull in New England, prepared for the Page 88 Atlantic Cod. Courtesy of New England Aquarium Rocky Beach — Middle Brewster Island. — Mary Price, Photographer U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau Elissa M. Landre of Sport Fisheries and Wlidlife, Division Remains of Fireplace and Stone Fence — Middle Map Sources of Wildlife Research, by the Massachu­ Brewster Island. Barbara J. Bernard setts Audubon Society, Lincoln, Massa­ Page 22 View of Middle Brewster Island and Building Historic Fortifications chusetts, April 15, 1963 through May Remains as seen from the water. Elissa M. Metropolitan District Commission 15, 1967. Landre Gerald Butler Page 89 Foley, Mason A., Hingham Old and New, Page 25 Hingham: Hingham Tercentenary Com­ Panorama of the Brewsters as seen from Filled Areas in Boston Since 1775 Outer Brewster Island. Barbara J. Bernard mittee, 1935. View of Boston Light on Little Brewster Island. 1971 Aerial Photographs J.F.W. Des Barres, Esq. August 1775 William D. Giezentanner Hoxie, Wilbur M., Boston Harbor Forts, Page 140 Page 90 Council of Abandoned Military Posts, Foundation Remains of the Cheney-Arthur Es­ Major Areas of Rat Infestation bimonthly publication, Heliogram, May, "Rat Survey of Boston Harbor Islands” tate — Calf Island. William D. Giezentanner 1972. U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service September 1971 Remains of Fireplace — Calf Island. William D. Giezentanner Page 143 Hoxie, Wilbur, M., History of Sea Coast Fort­ Page 93 Boston Harbor Access ifications, Unpublished paper in Histor­ View of Weymouth Back River with Hingham Massachusetts Department of Natural Resources ical Section, Corps of Engineers, United Ammunition Depot Dock in the Background. Division of Conservation Services States Army. Page 144 Barbara J. Bernard Page 94 Saltmarsh & Shellfish Digging Areas Jerome, William C., Jr., Chesmore, Arthur Close-up of Barracks Building — Fort Andrews Massachusetts Department of Natural Resources P., and Anderson, Charles O., Jr., A Division of Marine Fisheries — Peddock's Island. William D. Giezentanner Study of the Marine Resources of Page 152 Barracks Building — Fort Andrews — Peddock s Peak Hour Demand Quincy Bay, Division of Marine Fisher­ Island. William D. Giezentanner Murray D. Segal ies, Department of Natural Resources, Page 95 Aerial View of Peddock's Island. Transportation Consultant Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Mono­ graph Series No. 2, March, 1966. MAPC Page 96 La Forge, Lawrence, "Geology of the Marsh Area — Peddock's Island. Bibliography Boston Area, Mass.” in Geologic Survey Barbara J. Bernard Bulletin 839, U.S. Dept, of Interior, 1932. View of Church and Dock Area — Peddock's Annual Report of the President to the Island with Hull in the Background. Barbara J. Congress on Marine Resources and En­ Martin, Alexander C., Zim, Herbert S., Bernard and Nelson, Arnold L., American Wild­ Page 101 gineering Development, Marine Science Aerial View of Bumpkin Island. Affairs — Selecting Priority Programs, life and Plants, A Guide to Wildlife Food Habits, New York: Dover Publica­ MAPC April, 1970. Page 102 tions, Inc., 1951. Remains of Hospital — Bumpkin Island. Boston Redevelopment Authority, 1965/ Mason, Edwin A., “Massachusetts Audu­ William D. Giezentanner 1975 General Plan for the City of Boston Page 103 and the Regional Core, Project No. Mass. bon,” “One, Two, Three,” Massachusetts Remains of Fieldstone structure — Bumpkin R-77, April 15, 1964 as amended April Audubon Society, Lincoln, Massa­ Island. William D. Giezentanner 8, 1965 chusetts. Page 105 Aerial View of Grape and Slate Islands. Butler, Gerald W., Defenses of Boston Massachusetts Department of Commerce MAPC Harbor — 1900-1945 A Basic Study, Un­ and Development and Massachusetts View Along Beach — Grape Island. published paper in MDC Historical Department of Natural Resources, Mas­ William G. Giezentanner Library, 1971 sachusetts Saltwater Fishing Guide.

164 Metropolitan District Commission, Parks Wyman, Donald D., “Seaside Planting,” Dr. Jermey Hatch and Dr. Richard Stone, Division, History and Master Plan, Bay State Nurseries, Inc. North Abing- Department of Biology, University of George's Island and Fort Warren, Boston ton, Massachusetts. Massachusetts, Boston Harbor, prepared byShurcliff and Mer­ Wyman, Donald D., Wyman's Gardening rill, Landscape architects, May, 1960. Mr. Leslie V. Hebert Encyclopedia, The Macmillan Company, Morse, A.B., Company, “Wayside Gardens, New York, New York, 1971. Mr. Joseph Hudak, Olmsted Associates, For Autumn Planting 1965,“ Barrington, Inc. Illinois, 1965. New York City Parks, Recreation and Cul­ Mr. Clifford Kay, U.S. Geological Survey tural Affairs Administration, “Jamaica Bay Acknowledgements Wildlife Preserve," a descriptive bro­ Mr. Thomas King, Sport Fisherman, Vice chure, 1968. During the progress of this project numer­ Commodore, Savin Hill Yacht Club, ous persons gave of their time, knowledge Dorchester Peterson, Roger T., A Field Guide to Trees and energy. It is impossible to express our & Shrubs, Houghton Mifflin Company, gratitude to each individual. Their assist­ Mr. G. Stinson Lord Boston, Massachusetts, 1968. ance contributed significantly to the vir­ Peterson, Roger T. and McKenny, tues of this volume. The faults, needless to Mr. Paul Mugford, Division of Fisheries and Margaret, A Field Guide to Wildflowers, say, are our own. Special thanks are due Game, Mass. Department of Natural Houghton Mifflin Company, Boston, to the following: Resources Massachusetts, 1968. Mr. Gilbert Blise, Division of Forests and Mr. Richard N. Nakashian, Bay State-Spray Preston, Richard J., Jr., North American Parks, Massachusetts Department of Na­ Trees, The M.l.T. Press, Massachusetts tural Resources Mr. William Osgood, Senior Trust Officer, Institute of Technology, Cambridge, State Street Bank Massachusetts, March, 1966. Mrs. H. Ropes Cabot, Bostonian Society, Ramsey, Charles G. and Sleeper, Harold Old State House Mr. W. Robert Patterson, New England R., Architectural Graphic Standards, Aquarium John Wiley and Sons, Inc., New York, Mr. Arthur P. Chesmore, Mr. Charles O. New York, 1956. Anderson, Mass. Department of Na­ Mr. Allen E. Peterson, Division of Sport Fishery, Massachusetts Department of Robbins, Chandler S., Bruun, Bertel, and tural Resources Natural Resources Zim, Herbert S., Guide to Field Ident­ ification. Birds of North America, New Dr. William H. Drury, Jr., Mrs. Deborah Mr. John Peterson, Mr. Edward R. Ladd, York: Golden Press, 1966. Howard, Mr. James Baird, Massa­ chusetts Audubon Society Mr. William Hickling, Bureau of Sport Snow, Edward Rowe, The Romance of Fisheries and Wildlife, U.S. Department Boston Bay, Boston: The Yankee Pub­ Mr. William S. Elliott, Executive Director, of Interior lishing Company, 1944. Weymouth YMCA Sweetser, M. F., King’s Handbook of Mr. Robert Richardson, Massachusetts De­ Boston Harbor, Moses King, Cambridge, Mr. Charles English, Mass. Bay Com­ partment of Public Works Mass., 1882. muter Service, Inc. Mr. William J. Spence, Mass. Bay Lines Teal, John and Mildred, Life and Death of Mr. Arthur Fournier, Fournier Marine, the Salt Marsh, New York Audubon/ Boston, Mass. Mr. Robert F. Sullivan Ballantine, 1969. U.S. Department of Agriculture, “ Making Mr. Joel Froehlich, Massachusetts Mrs. Ray Thomas, Thompson Academy, Land Produce Useful Wildlife," Farmers’ Audubon Society Thompson Island Bulletin No. 2036, Washington, D.C., May, 1969. Dr. F. William Green Mr. Diggory Venn, Director, Museum of Fine Arts U.S. Department of Commerce, “Tidal Current Charts Boston Harbor,” Coast Mr. Richard E. Griffith, Regional Director, Mr. George M. Wright, Headmaster, and Geodetic Survey, Washington, D.C. Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Sport Fisheries and Wildlife, U.S. De­ Thompson Academy Whitehill, Walter Muir, Boston, a Topo­ partment of Interior graphical History, Cambridge: The Belknap Press of Harvard University Mr. Judson D. Hale, Editor, Yankee Maga­ Press, 1959. zine

165 Index

A Boston Harbor Outer Sanctuary, 13, D Grape Island, 13, Description and Adm inistration, 124-125 91, 93 Department of Correction, 122 History, 105, Plan, 106-107 of . . . Boston Light, 89 Department of Housing and Urban De­ Hangman Island, Description and Boston-Long Wharf, 126, 130 Boston Police, 58 velopment, 121, see Summ ary of History, 113, Plan, 115 Central Ferry Terminal, 120, Boston Redevelopment Authority, 37, Costs also Hingham Conservation Commission, see also Transportation and 38, 39, 126 Department of Interior, Bureau of Out­ 128 Access Boston Tea Party site, 41 door Recreation, 121, see Summary Hingham Harbor Islands, 13, 108, The Brewster Islands, 127 Brewster Islands, see Quincy Bay- of Costs also Plans, 111-113 Bumpkin Island, 127 Outer Harbor Sub-System Department of Natural Resources, 7, Button Island, 111 Deer Island, 126 Bug Light, 87 31, 37, 40, 65, 67, 121, 122, 124, 125, Langlee Island, Description and Grape, Slate and Sheep Islands, Bumpkin Island, see Hingham Bay 126, 127, 130 History, 111, Plan. 111-113 127 Sub-System Self-help program, 122 Ragged Island, Description and Hangman Island, 128 Bunker Hill, 15 Design Policies, 31 History, 109, Plan, 111-113 Hingham Harbor Islands, 128 Bureau of Outdoor Recreation, 29 General policies, 31 Sarah Island, Description and His­ Long, Moon and Rainsford Is­ Guideline policies, 31 tory, 109, Plan, 111-113 lands, 126-127 Introduction, 31 Peddocks, 13, 42, Description and Lovell’s, G allop's and G eorge’s Policies for Preservation of Island History, 94-96, Plan, 96-101 C Islands, 127 Ecology, 31-32 West Head, 95 Camp Wightman, 48 Nantasket Pier, information cen­ Recreation policies, 32 East Head, 95 Castle Island, see Dorchester Bay Inner ter, 128 Division of Marine Fisheries of De­ Prince Head, 96 Harbor Sub-System Nut Island, 128 partment of Natural Resources, 18 Raccoon Island, 13, Description and Chapter 742 Acts of 1970, 7, 121, 124 Peddock's Island, 127 Dorchester Bay-Inner Harbor Sub- History, 113, Plan, 114 City Poor House, 52 Raccoon Island, 128 System Sheep, 13, Description and History, Clapp Memorial Association, 106 Spectacle Island, 127 Castle Island, 12, 24, 43, Description 106, Plan, 108 Climate, 16 Thompson Island, 127 and History, 67, Plan, 69 Slate, 13, Description and History, Latitude, 16 Fees, 128, see transportation also Deer Island, 12. 24, 25. 26, 41, De­ 106, Plan, 107 Prevailing wind, 16, 17 Martime unions, 130 scription and History, 43, Plan, 69 Historical Areas, see Overview of Com­ Low pressure systems, 16 Operation, public versus private, 129 Long Island. 12, 17, 36, 39-40, 42, 43, prehensive Plan Rainfall, precipitation, 16, 17 Safety, 128 Description and History, 47, Plan, History and Present Conditions, 15 Coastal location, 16 First Aid Stations, 128 53 Hurricane season, 17 Stranded Island users, 129 Long Island Head, 47, 49 I Temperature, 17 Transportation adm inistration, 129 Moon Island, 12, 17, 43, Description Indian Tribes, 20 Com fort Stations, 116-117 Agriculture, 21 and History, 61, Plan, 64 Individual Island Analysis, 41, see In­ Comprehensive Open Space and Recre­ Air pollution, 27 Rainsford Island, 12, 43, Description dividual Island Names also ation Plan for Metropolitan Boston, 7 American Society of Planning Offi­ and History, 52, Plan, 55 Insects, 19 Comprehensive Plan Overview, 41 cials, 29 Spectacle Island, 12, 25, 41, 43, De­ Intensive Use Areas, 41 Alternative Three, 41 Analysis and Development Program scription and History, 67, Plan, 69 Interpretive Markets, 119 Intensive use areas El, 41 for Boston Harbor Islands Park System, Thompson Island, 12, 17, 43, De­ Islands of Boston Harbor, 7, 8, 11, see Moderate use areas Ell, 41 35 scription and History, 57, Plan, 59 Individual Island Names also Natural Environment Areas El 11, 41 Alternative Evaluation, 35 Island Sub-Systems, 42, see also, Dor­ Conditions, present, 24, see also, visual Alternative One, 35 E chester Bay-Inner Harbor Sub- character, water quality, recreation Alternative Two, 35 East Boston, 41 Systems, Hingham Bay Sub-System, demand Alternative Three, 36, 41 Economic Benefits, 123 Quincy Bay-Outer Harbor Sub-Sys­ Costs, see Summary of tem Area, 24 Ecosystems, 8 Cultural History, 20 Audubon Society, Drumlin Farm, 65 Endicott Project, see Cultural History Boston, 20 L — utilization B Cambridge, 20 Excursions, 29 Landfilled Islands, 24 Battery Jewel, 89 Charlestown, 20 Landscaping, 117 Bedrock outcrops, 15, 16 Commercial Fishing, 21 Planting for Erosion Control, 117 F Bicentennial Celebration, 39 Donald McKay, clipper ships, 20, 72 Selective clearing, 117 Federal Water Resource Council, 123 Birds, 17 Indian tribes, 20 Shade, Windbreak and Screen tree Ferry Service, see Transportation and Common and uncomm on, 18, 19, Long wharf, 21 planting, 117 Access herons, 95, 101 M edford, 20 Land and Water Conservation Fund, Fish, 19. 20 Blue Hills, 15 Tributaries, Charles, Mystic, Neponset, 121, see Summary of Costs, Fund Fishing, 20, 29 Boating, see Recreation Demand 20 Sources Fish Pier, 41 Boat loops, see transportation and Utilization, 21 Latitude, 16, see Climate also Forts, see Cultural History access Agricultural, 21 Local Appropriations, 122 Freedom Trail, 41 Boston Alm shouse, 49 Military fortifications, 22-24 Logan Airport, 25, 27 Boston Asylum for Indigent Boys, 61 Fort Andrews, 24, 94, 96 G Long Island, see also Dorchester Bay- Boston Antipoverty Agency, Action for Fort Dawes, 24, 44, 47 Inner Harbor Sub-System Gallop’s Island, see Quincy Bay-Outer Boston Community Development, 122 Fort Independence, 41, 71, 72 Long Island Harbor Sub-System Boston Basin, see Natural History of Fort Standish, 80 Bass Point, 52, 55 George’s Island, see Q uincy Bay-Outer Boston Harbor Fort Strong, 24, 49, 53, 54 Head, 54 Harbor Sub-System Boston, City of, Source of Funds, 122 Fort Warren, 41, 71, 76-77, 81 West Head, 49 Glacial Ice, 15 Boston Farm School Society, 61 Fort Winthrop, 22-24 Long Island Chronic Disease Hospital, Graves Light, 90 Boston Farm and T rade School Society, Chesapeake Incident, 23 49, 53 61 Civil War, 23 Lovell's Island, see Quincy Bay-Outer Boston Fire Department, 58, 59 Endicott project of 1885, 24 Harbor Sub-System Boston Harbor Islands Comprehensive public facilities, 22 Harbor Islands Park System, 7, 121- Plan, 7, 8, 84, 91, 120 recreation, 22 122, see Adm inistration also Boston Harbor Islands Park, 37 Revolutionary War, 22 Hingham Bay Loop, 37 M Boston Harbor National Recreation Taft Board Report, 24 Hingham Bay Sub-System, 11, 13, 93 Mammals 19, see Wildlife and Marine Area, 121. See Summary of Costs, World War II, 24 Bumpkin, 13, Description and His­ Life also Fund Source 1946 — Present, 24 tory, 101-103, Plan, 103 “Man-Made Factors," map, 43

166 Massachusetts Department of Agri­ "Prologue 75," 39 Aquarium, 41 U culture, 65 Public Access Board, 122 Belle Island Marsh, 41 University of Massachusetts, 66 Massachusetts Department of Public Boston Tea Party Site, 41 Q Works, 26 East Boston, 41 V Quincy Bay-Outer Harbor Sub-Sys­ Massachusetts Port Authority, 27, 122 Fish Pier, 41 Vegetation and Landscape, 17 tem, 11, 12, 13, 42, 75 McKay, Donald, clipper ships, 20, 72 Freedom Trail, 41 Characteristics, 17 Boston Harbor Outer Sanctuary, 13, Metropolitan Area Planning Council, Slate, see Hingham Bay Sub-System Civilian Conservation Corps, 17 91, 93 7, 11, 31, 124 South Shore Extension of MBTA, 53 Common trees, shrubs, 17 The Brewster Islands, 13, 87, Plans, Metropolitan District Commission, 71, Special Commission on Boston Harbor Microenvironments, 17, 18 91-93 75, 76, 80, ¿1, 84, 94, 95, 100, 122, Islands, 91 Visual Character of Present Develop­ Great Brewster Island, Description 125, 126, 127, 128 Spectacle Island, see Dorchester Bay- ment and History, 87 Microenvironments, 17-18, see Vege­ Inner Harbor Sub-System Area, 24 Little Brewster, Description and tation and Landscape also Squaw Rock, 16, 40, 61, 64 Inner Harbor, 24, 26 History, 89 Military Fortifications, see Cultural State Almshouse, 52 Outer Harbor, 24, 26 Middle Brewster, Description and History/Utilization Suffolk County House of Correction, Peninsula of Boston, South Boston, History, 88 Miscellaneous Facilities, 119, see Indi­ 44, 47 Charlestown, 24 Outer Brewster, Description and vidual Island Plans also Suffolk County School for Boys, 52 Visitor Centers, 41, 42, 54, 81, 100, 129 History, 88-89 Buildings, 119 Summary, 11 Central Ferry Terminal, 41 Calf Island, Description and History, Picnic equipment, 119 Summary of Costs and Priorities, 120, Dorchester Bay Loop, 41,54,115,128 90 Play equipment, 119 see also Appendix Long Wharf, Nantasket “Spine,” Little Calf Island, Description and Trails, 119 Costs, 120, 121; see also Appendix 41, 43, 53, 75, 81, 93, 115, 128 History, 90 Model Farm, 64-65, 129 Priorities and Phasing, 120 Nantasket, 41, 128, 130 The Graves, Description and History, Moon Island, see Dorchester Bay-Inner Source of Funds, 121 90 Harbor Sub-System also Save Our Shores W Green Island, Description and His­ The Sierra Club Water Quality, 26 tory, 90 N U.S. Arm y Corps of Engineers, 121 A ir Pollution, 27 Shag Rocks, Description and History, Nantasket, 41, 128, 130, see Visitor National Shoreline Study for the Boston Harbor Pollution Committee, 90 Centers North Atlantic Region 27 Gallop's Island, 13, Description and Natural Environment Areas, 41 Summary of Proposed Improvements, Boston Harbor Water Quality Plan, 27 History, 77, Plan, 81, 84-85 “Natural Factors” map, 43 12 Massachusetts Department Public George's Island, 12, 13, 42, Descrip­ Natural History of Boston Harbor, 15 Support Facilities, 115 Works, 26 tion and History, 76, Plan, 81-84 Bedrock outcrops, 15, 16 Com fort Stations, 116 Massachusetts Port Authority, 27 Lovell’s Island, 13, Description and Blue Hills, 15 Chemical Toilets, 116 New England River Basins Commis­ History, 80, Plan, 81, ,85 Boston Basin, 15 Large Comfort Station/Bathhouse sion, 26 Q uincy Granite, 71, 77, 87 Drumlins, 15, 17 Combinations, 116 Noise Pollution, 27 Glacial Ice, 15 Smaller Com fort Stations, 116 Pollution Sources, 26 Squaw Rock, 16, 40, 61, 64 Introduction, 115 "S.C.” Classification, 26 Raccoon Island, see Hingham Bay Tillite, 16 Piers and Floats, 115 State Division of Water Pollution Sub-System "Neighborhood" loop services, see Major Ferry Landings, 115 Control, 26 Rainsford Island, see Dorchester Bay- Transportation and Access M inor Ferry Landings, 115 Wildlife and Marine Life, 18 Inner Harbor Sub-System New England Aquarium, B.U. Joint Birds, 17, common and uncommon, Rats, 19, see also W ildlife and Marine T Study Group, 67 18-19 Life Taft Board Report, 24 New England River Basins Commis­ Clamming, 20 Recreation Areas versus Natural En­ Temperature, see Climate sion, 126 Division of Marine Fisheries of the vironm ent Areas, 8, 11 Thayer, Lt. Col. Sylvanus, 71, 76 Noise Pollution, 27 Department of Natural Resources, Recreation Demand, Analysis of, 29 Thompson Academy, 62, 66, 127 Nut Island, see Quincy Bay-Outer 18 Demand, 27-29 Tillite, 16, see Natural History Harbor Sub-Systems Finfish, 19, 20 Activity preferences for Harbor Trails, 119 Fishing and Boat Access, 20 Islands, 28 Transportation and Access, 36 Insects, 19 boating, 28 Access, Deer and Long Island, 39 O Lobstering, 20 Olmsted, Frederick Law, 39, 72 cam ping, 28 Auto Access, 39 Mammals, 19 Open Space Land Program, 121, see excursions, 29 Other Access, 40 Rats, 19 Summary of Costs, Fund Sources fishing, 28, 29 Registered Boats, 40 Salt-marsh, 20 Open Space Plan and Program for nature walks, hikes, 29 Vistas, 40 Seaweed, Marine Algae, 19 Metropolitan Boston, Volume 2, picnicking, 29 Boston Waterfront-Central Terminal, Shellfish Purification Facility, Plum Boston Harbor 1967 Report, 7, 40, swimm ing, 28 37-38, 126 Island, Newburyport, 20 124 Standards, 29 Boston Redevelopment Authority, Sport Fishing, 20 Overview of Comprehensive Plan The American Society of Planning Urban Renewal Project, 38, 39 Alternative Three, 41 Officials, 29 Long Wharf, 38 Moderate Use Areas, 41 Bureau of Outdoor Recreation, 29 Overnight Docking, 39 Natural Environment Areas, 41 Peak Demand, 38 Historical and Educational Areas, 41 S Terminal Building, 38 Salt-marsh, 20 Ferry Service, 36 P Sewage Treatment Plant, 44, 46 Boston to Nantasket Service, 36 Peddock’s Island, see Hingham Bay "S.C.” classification, 26, see Water Inner Harbor Service, 36 Sub-System Quality Capacity, 36 Planting for Wildlife Habitat Improve­ Sheep, see Hingham Bay Sub-System Fares, 36 ment, 118-119, see Appendix also Shellfish Purification Facility, Plum Speed, 36 Point Shirley, 43 Island, Newburyport, 20 "Neighborhood" Loop Services, 37 Pollution, 26, 27, see Water Quality Shirley Gut, 43 Dorchester Bay Loop, 37 Pollution Committee, 27 Shoreline Land Use, 25 Hingham Bay Loop, 37 Present Conditions, 24 Shoreline, Recommendations by Mainland Terminals, Inner President Roads, 43, 45, 47 Metropolitan Area Planning Coun­ Harbor, 37 Project Advisory Committee, 7, 31 cil, 40 Small Boat Loop Services, 37

167 Boston Harbor Islands Comprehensive Plan

MAPC Officers Department of Natural Resources Consultants John J. McCarthy, President Commissioner Arthur W. Brownell Murray D. Segal, Transportation Mrs. William B. Castle, Vice-President Evans C. Hawes Consultant Neal Holland, Treasurer Robert C. Blumberg Thomas Todd Company, Boston, Printer Mrs. Theodore C. McKie, Secretary Richard J. Correia James J. Matera, Assistant Treasurer Matthew B. Connolly Project Staff Kenneth A. Crossman Frank Grice Richard M. Doherty, Executive Director James A. Miller, Deputy Executive Bruce S. Gullion Director Charles P. Kennedy Thomas C. McMahon William D. Giezentanner, Director of Al E. Pratt Development Programs David S. Kales Robert J. Joseph, Principal Planner Susan S. Davis, Landscape Architect Harbor Islands Project Advisory Committee David F. Gardner, Principal Planner William Wahlefield, Massachusetts De­ Barbara J. Bernard, Assistant Planner partment of Public Works Kenichi Nakano, Landscape Architect Matthew Coogan, Massachusetts Bay Elissa M. Landre, Senior Planner Transportation Authority Jeffrey R. Melzack, Senior Draftsman Alfred Ferullo, Massachusetts Division Mary D. Profit, Junior Draftsman Water Pollution Control Marla A. Menzies, Junior Draftsman Thomas Callaghan, Massachusetts Port Ann I. Killilea, Planning Assistant Authority Peter M. Crowley, Planning Intern Paul May, Massachusetts Port Authority Denise D. Fazio, Secretary Armen DerHohanessian, Massachusetts Lorraine S. Payne, Junior Planner Port Authority Bruce Kaukas, Public Information Specialist Mrs. W. Trafford, League of Women Voters, Boston MAPC Executive Committee Mrs. Wilma Frey, Sierra Club John J. McCarthy, Chairman Paul Swatek, Sierra Club Louise M. Castle, Vice-Chairman William Butler, Environmental Protection Neal Holland, Treasurer Agency Mrs. Theodore C. McKie, Secretary William McCarthy, U.S. Army Corps of George B. Bailey Engineers Commissioner Arthur W. Brownell Evans C. Hawes, Department of Natural Commissioner Joseph F. Casazza Resources Mrs. Ann Connor Matthew B. Connolly, Jr., Department of Charles Eliot, II Natural Resources Charles M. Evans David Kales, Department of Natural Re­ Robert L. Farrell sources Henry Sears Lodge Mrs. Eugenie Beal, Conservation Commis­ Joseph M. Magaldi sion, Boston Thomas Maloney John Lewis, Conservation Commission, James J. Matera Boston Richard K. McMullan Philip Zeigler, Boston Redevelopment Mrs. Agnes E. Moore Authority Robert J. M. O’Hare Greg Doyle, Quincy Planning Department John Pepper Eugene E. Bickford, Conservation Com­ Samuel E. Reinherz mission, Hingham Commissioner Bruce Campbell Wallace E. Richardson, Board of Select­ Z. Cranston Smith men, East Weymouth Honarable Philip J. Spelman William G. Rennie, Jr., Board of Select­ Jerald W. Bush men, East Weymouth Technical Advisory Committee on Open Donald J. Laing, Board of Selectmen, Space and Recreation Braintree Nathan W. Bates, Chairman Richard D. Dimes, Board of Selectmen, Winthrop George B. Bailey Mrs. Julia O’Brien, Metropolitan District Commissioner Arthur W. Brownell Commission Daniel Bumagin Commodore Michael Denato, Massachu­ Robert B. Chase setts Bay Yacht Club Association, Inc. Mrs. Paul Counihan Frank Gregg, New England River Basins Paul Cunningham Commission C. John Greco Atherton Loring Vice Commodore Karl Schell, of the Massa­ chusetts Bay Yacht Club Association, served as Francis G. Morrill a member of the Project Advisory Committee Commissioner John W. Sears until his untimely death. His knowledge and A. Ledyard Smith, Jr. love of Boston Harbor and its Islands remains John R. Verani as an inspiration to those who were privileged Donald Yeaple to work with him.