Here stands Sally Rock. But who was Sally?
Sally Rock got its name from Aunt Sally Sumner. She was the daughter of William Sumner of Hyde Park. She grew up in the old homestead on River Street. It stood just south of the Tileston and Hollingsworth paper mill. Sally Sumner was part of the family of Senator Charles Sumner of Massachusetts. She was known for her interest in public affairs. In particular, she was interested in the antislavery movement.
But there is another story about the name of Sally Rock.
In 1874, John Gately came from England. He became a squatter on Henry S. Grew’s property. He was known as the “Hermit of Sally’s Rock”. Gately eventually received an old shed from Grew. This shed was listed as “The Hermitage” on old maps of Grew’s land. Some say “Sallie’s Rock” was a spite name. The Hermit Gateley gave it this name. People picked up the name without knowing any better.
Adding to the mystery, James Gatley died in 1875. He lived in Grew’s Woods for nearly three decades. His home was a small hut. He studied and stuffed local birds and reptiles.
The area around Sally Rock has a rich geological history. This area has pudding stone. It is a mix of natural wonder and human stories.
Hyde Park itself has a fascinating history. The town was incorporated in 1868. It was formed from land in Dorchester, Milton, and Dedham. Hyde Park remained part of Norfolk County until 1912. Then, the town voted to join the City of Boston in Suffolk County.
The hills of Hyde Park tell a story of glacial activity. Clarendon Hills and Fairmount are typical drumlins. They are made of drift material from the Glacial Age.
Dell Avenue Rock is another notable geological feature nearby. It is a steep, rocky bluff of Mattapan volcanic rock. It rises nearly 40 feet from the street.
Even the local schools have interesting namesakes. Elihu Greenwood is remembered in Greenwood School, Greenwood Avenue, and Greenwood Square.
Sally Rock isn’t the only rock around here. There is also Pine Rock and Rooney Rock.
We also have Crane Ledge, near the Roslindale Stop and Shop. In 1782, Lemuel Crane bought land here. He was a soldier and a farmer. He taught the first school in his neighborhood and was a collector of town taxes.
Sally Rock is more than just a geological formation. It is a landmark with layers of history. It connects to abolitionist sentiments. It connects to the life of a local hermit. It connects to the broader story of Hyde Park’s development. It shows the relationship between people and the land. It remains a testament to the past. It continues to spark curiosity and conversation.