Point Allerton Artillery Fire Control Tower

Gazing up at this imposing structure, one might wonder about the secrets held within the Point Allerton Artillery Fire Control Tower. This tower, standing tall against the elements, played a crucial role in defending Boston Harbor during World War II. The Point Allerton Artillery Fire Control Tower wasn’t just a passive observer. It was a vital link in the chain of defense, coordinating with Fort Duvall on Hog Island, now known as Spinnaker Island. High atop the tower, military personnel used specialized equipment and a geodetic disc on the roof to pinpoint enemy ships. They relayed this information to the gunners at Fort Duvall. If the shots missed, observers in the Point Allerton Artillery Fire Control Tower could see the splashes and provide corrections. The tower’s long horizontal windows offered a panoramic view, essential for spotting any approaching vessels. The Point Allerton Artillery Fire Control Tower stands at 179 feet above sea level, one of the highest points on the South Shore. After the war, the tower found a new purpose. In the late 1990s, Maureen Keiller and her fiancé purchased the property, drawn to the tower’s unique history. They continued a tradition started in 1962, placing an illuminated star atop the Point Allerton Artillery Fire Control Tower during the holidays. After her husband’s passing, Maureen added a touching tribute. A laminated photo of her husband now adorns the star, keeping his memory alive. Today, the Point Allerton Artillery Fire Control Tower carries on its legacy of service, displaying a symbol of peace, a poignant reminder of the hope for a world free from conflict.