Quabbin The Accidental Wilderness

by Thomas Conuel

"Conuel skillfully provides an overview of the region, a discussion of its people, the reasons for the construction of the reservoir, and the impact of the project on human settlements and natural resources". -- Historical Journal of Massachusetts

Genres: Local History

66 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1981

Reviews

[David · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was born and raised 32miles away from the Quabbin reservoir. Yet I never knew that in order to build that water supply for the thirsty citizens of the city of Boston, a number of towns and villages had to be vacated. And that a branch of the Boston and Albany railroad called "The Rabbit Run" lies now under 190 feet of pristine water that sustains and refreshes the cities surrounding and including Boston.

Conuel invites us on a journey in which he has participated as an eyewitness and constant friend of the amazing history of the Accidental Wilderness of the Quabbin reservoir. I found that journey informational and fascinating.

[Ayla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting account on how a valley was flooded to form a reservoir for the city of Boston, and in the wake how the area became a wilderness thick with wildlife. Will be exploring this area soon!