I had a meeting today at the Clinton Mass historical society. Part of the meeting was touring the facility. Incredible place. One room showcased all the different trees that they had at the time they started the Wachusett Dam and Reservoir project around 1900. Never seen anything like this before.
I didn't take pictures, but in the same room as the tree species they had every species of bird behind glass in the form of the actual birds that were preserved. Had to have been at least 30-40 species.
Not the most efficient way to stack but I bet it’s really well-seasoned. Seriously though, very cool. Were there any tree types that you were surprised to see?
I didn't get a chance to look at them for very long. The groups were moving fairly quickly and it was a crowded/small room. I may go back with my family. Its about 45 minutes from my house. They do tours on Saturdays from 9am-noon.
I love old relics like that. Pretty neat piece(s) of New England history there. I knew about the Quabbin reservoir and the towns that were swallowed up by it. All to support the growing megalopolis along the coast.
Wachusett was about 30 years before Quabbin to supply water to Boston. They knew when building it it wouldn’t be enough water, but hadn’t decided the second location yet. The aquaducts from Quabbin go to Wachusett then to Boston. They’re so big you can bring a boat down them for inspections
Yes. Quabbin is a cool place. Been there many times. This huge Oak used to be at one of the entrances.
The quabbin res is a pretty unique spot in central mass. Pretty much every lake in mass is surrounded by mostly McMansions and a scattering of old camps. There are literally none anywhere close to the res. Except of course the towns that were flooded. I used to fish it a bunch, you can put your own boat in but it can only be 20 hp and you have to get it specially cleaned then you can only use it in the res. Much easier to rent their boats. It’s quite serine with abundant wildlife.
Way back before people had cameras with 2’ long lenses the birding hobby meant you went out with your .410 shotgun and collected specimens to put on your display. Times have changed.
I ride my motorcycles around and over to the Quabbin quite frequently. It's a great ride for me not too far from where I live in Ashby. I just came across this post. A long time ago I had a job working for New England Tel & Tel, and I would get duty in Clinton when one of the stationed there guys went on vaca. We live in such a beautiful part of the country. The history of our land, homes, and ancestors is really something to treasure. Thanks for all these great pics and info. I've to go see that place. Oldhippie aka Steve
