Around 1900 a low-lying hay field called Oaky Bottom transformed. Edward R Farrar flooded it creating Farrar Pond. This 88-acre pond in Lincoln Massachusetts is our destination today.
Farrar Pond wasn’t always a pond. It began as Oaky Bottom a simple hay field. Mr Farrar’s vision changed the landscape forever. He saw potential where others saw only farmland. He dammed Pole Brook also known as Halfway Brook. This brook flows into the Sudbury River. His dam created the pond we see today.
The creation of Farrar Pond wasn’t without challenges. The original dam failed in the 1940s. It was rebuilt by the then-owner senior Guilbert Winchell. A more robust structure replaced it in the 1990s. This included a concrete spillway and a manual floodgate.
Even beavers tried to reclaim the land. They attempted to raise the water level. Their dams threatened the basements of nearby homes. Clever “beaver deceivers” were installed. These helped to maintain an optimal water level. The pond is partially drained every three years. This controls invasive vegetation. During these drainings old tree stumps from the original meadow become visible.
The construction of Farrar Pond also impacted South Great Road. The road’s grade was raised between Beaver Brook and Lee’s Bridge. Lee’s Bridge was improved around the same time. It was completely rebuilt after a collapse in 1999. This was possibly due to World War II tank traffic from Fort Devens. The road improvements help prevent spring flooding. The adjacent Nine Acre Corner area still floods seasonally but the road stays mostly dry.
Today Farrar Pond is privately owned. It’s not open to public fishing or boating. The trails around the pond are open for hiking. Enjoy the winding paths and scenic views. Across the street is Canoe Landing. This public parking area offers canoe and kayak access to the Sudbury River and Fairhaven Bay. Remember a Massachusetts fishing license is needed for fishing in public waters. Take a moment to appreciate this beautiful and unique place. Farrar Pond’s history is rich and fascinating. It’s a testament to human ingenuity and the power of nature.