“Ever wondered how a city secures its water supply?” I ask. The story of Waban Hill Reservoir Dam begins in the late 19th century. Let’s explore this historic site.
The Waban Hill Reservoir Dam played a crucial role. It helped Newton supply its villages with water. Construction started in 1875. The city purchased the site to build the reservoir. The plan was ambitious. They would draw water from the Charles River. Coal-fired steam engines would pump water across the city. These engines sent water through the mains. This undertaking aimed to serve all thirteen villages of Newton.
However, Newton’s control was not long-lived. In 1900, the city sold the Waban Hill Reservoir to the Boston Metropolitan Water Board. This board was the predecessor to the MWRA. The Massachusetts Water Resources Authority exists today.
Interestingly, Newton had already prepared for this change. In 1891, they completed a replacement reservoir. This new structure held ten million gallons. It was located just up the hill from the old one.
Today, the Waban Hill Reservoir is a park. Newton acquired the property in 2015. They transformed it into Heartbreak Hill Park. This park offers accessible trails. These encircle the perimeter of the former reservoir. There is also a small grass playing area.
The Waban Hill Reservoir Dam itself has specific features. It’s an earth dam. Its hydraulic height is nine feet. The structural height reaches twenty-four feet. The dam stretches 1300 feet in length. It was completed around 1900. The reservoir could hold sixty acre-feet of water. Its surface area spanned three acres.
Now, Waban Hill Reservoir Dam is classified as having low hazard potential. Its condition is satisfactory. An Emergency Action Plan is in place. This ensures safety and preparedness.
Visiting the Waban Hill Reservoir offers more than just historical insights. The park provides scenic views. It’s accessible via the MBTA Green Line. The Friends of Heartbreak Hill Park actively support it. They help maintain this green space.
Looking out from the park today you might think about the engineering feat. The Waban Hill Reservoir was a vital part of Newton’s infrastructure. It ensured a reliable water supply for a growing community. The transition from reservoir to park reflects Newton’s changing priorities. Open space and recreation now take center stage.
As we conclude our visit to the Waban Hill Reservoir Dam, remember its legacy. It represents innovation, community planning and adaptation. The Waban Hill Reservoir is a reminder of our past. It’s a testament to how cities evolve. It also highlights how they preserve their history.