How about we journey to a serene escape right in the heart of Melrose? This is Ell Pond. It is more than just a body of water. Ell Pond is a centerpiece of the community.
Melrose is a desirable compromise. It balances a busy city and peaceful landscape. Grand Victorian homes are all around. A quaint downtown area is nearby. Lush parks and fields surround us. Ell Pond is nestled just seven miles from Boston. Melrose is proud of its excellent schools. It has cultural facilities. The Melrose Symphony Orchestra is over 100 years old.
Ell Pond got its name from its shape. It looks like the letter L. It was formerly even written as L Pond. Some people also call it Crystal Pond.
In the 1970s, something special happened here at Ell Pond. The Melrose Victorian Society built a gazebo. It was a tribute to Gerry Nadel. He was the founder of the society. Ainsley Donaldson constructed the base. Then, the Victorian-style iron gazebo was transported here. The town maintains the structure. The base has been repaired several times. The iron has been repainted with different colors.
The gazebo’s design fits Melrose’s Victorian style. It stands in a small park. This park is right along the banks of Ell Pond. The gazebo is not just for show. It has hosted holiday festivities. Interfaith services have been held here. Even weddings have taken place here. Hot air balloon rides have even happened nearby.
Ell Pond itself is a significant feature. Melrose is a garden city. It has a commercial downtown. Housing surrounds it. Melrose is ringed by a green belt. The Middlesex Fells Reservation is to the west. This buffers Melrose from other communities.
Melrose offers a wide variety of activities. Ell Pond is a large feature in Melrose’s center. Trees line the streets. Parks and open spaces are all around the city.
Melrose is approximately seven miles north of Boston. It covers 4.7 square miles. A small portion of that is water. Ell Pond is the largest body of water here.
Elizabeth George Speare was born in Melrose. She described her hometown fondly. She said Melrose was an ideal place to grow up. It was close to fields and woods. Her family hiked and picnicked there. Boston was nearby for theaters and concerts.
So, as we stand here by Ell Pond, think about its history. Think about its role in Melrose. It is a place for nature. It is a place for community. It is a place for celebrations. Ell Pond is truly a gem in the heart of Melrose.