Perhaps it’s the gentle lapping of water or maybe the rustling of leaves. Whatever it is, there is a unique charm about the Brookline Reservoir. The Brookline Reservoir Park offers a serene escape right in the heart of Brookline.
The Brookline Reservoir was built in the 1840s. It formed part of Boston’s first municipal water system. The Cochituate Aqueduct brought water 15 miles from Lake Cochituate. The water arrived at the Brookline Reservoir ready for distribution to Boston.
Picture this: it’s 1848. The Brookline Reservoir is filled to capacity. The reservoir becomes a vital water source for the growing city. The reservoir cost $58,419 to build.
The granite gatehouse is a significant feature. Charles E Parker designed it. The gatehouse boasts the oldest extant iron roof in the United States. Wrought iron trusses support this roof. The gatehouse also houses the oldest cast iron staircases in the United States for public use.
But the Brookline Reservoir’s story doesn’t end there. In 1902, Boston planned to sell the reservoir. This sparked outrage among neighbors. Residents like Amy Lowell and John C Olmsted rallied to save it. They raised over $50,000 towards the $150,000 purchase price.
In 1926, the gatehouse saw some changes. It gained rooms and toilet facilities. These improvements were for swimming meets and skating. A pier was also built nearby. A plan for a beach and bathhouse in 1945 never materialized.
The Brookline Reservoir is a haven for wildlife. Native waterfowl like Canada geese and mallard ducks frequent the water. You might spot bufflehead ducks or a Great Blue Heron. The reservoir is stocked with trout seasonally. Bass, pickerel, perch and eel also call it home. You need a permit from the Brookline Town Office to fish here. River otters, muskrats, deer and raccoons are frequent visitors too.
Today, the Brookline Reservoir is a park. It is open from dawn to dusk. A one-mile pathway loops around the water. The path is perfect for walking and jogging. It is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. Benches line the pathways offering spots to relax. Water fountains for both people and dogs are available. A public restroom is located in the gatehouse.
The Friends of the Brookline Reservoir play a crucial role. This group supports the park’s enhancement. They fund new trees and plants. They organize park cleanups. They also host community events.
In 2020, the Brookline Reservoir Park underwent renovations. Improvements included walkway renovations. There were also gatehouse improvements and landscape enhancements.
So, whether you are seeking a peaceful walk, a spot for bird watching, or a glimpse into history, the Brookline Reservoir welcomes you. It is a place where nature and history intertwine. It creates a unique and cherished space for all.