When Hull Freezes Over: Historic Winter Tales from the Massachusetts Shore

by John J. Galluzzo

The peninsular community of Hull, Massachusetts, reaches a total of seven thin, sandy miles into Boston Harbor, forming a protective barrier against intruding navies and pounding waves. Unfortunately for those residents who choose to live here for the three miles of crescent-shaped beach and its attendant summer advantages, exposure to the sea during the winter months can be, at times, trying, to say the least. When Hull Freezes Over, by lifelong Hull resident and columnist John Galluzzo, is a collection of historic tales that look beyond the sunny days of summer and remember the other nine months of life along this scenic shore. From shipwrecks and drownings, to subzero temperatures and frigid arctic gales, locals have learned to enjoy their seasonal solitude, and especially enjoy the holiday season in ways only New England peninsula dwellers can.

160 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2005

Reviews

[Michelle Heinrich · Rating 4 out of 5]

“When Hull Freezes Over,” was a fun, local book that told many fascinating tales of Hull. Charmingly folksy, it tells not just the promised stories of winter weather, but of the town itself, from prominent citizens like newspaper editor and magnate, Loretta Vining to the brave Surfmen who saved many lives. And there’s broader history, as well. I knew nothing about Pat Crowe or Charles Bonaparte before I read this book.

Anyone who has even glanced at my Instagram account can surmise that Hull, especially Nantasket Beach is one of my favorite places in New England. So it should come as no surprise that I found this book interesting
Full disclosure, however, it is the sort of thing perhaps most enjoyed by Hullonians and Mass folks, especially resident of Boston’s South Shore. That said, it might have appeal to those interested in nautical or maritime life-saving history. But any way you look at it, the author, John Galluzzo, clearly loves his little town and the interesting history around it.

[Brook Wiers · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book talks about episodes in Hull's history, particularly in the winter, from 1878 to WWII. The author has an encyclopedic knowledge of local history and offers many facts and anecdotes that will interest those from the area. It impressed me that Hull had the first electric railroad in the US as well as at one point in time the largest hotel in the United States. I like also knowing the likely origin of coal we pick up on Nantasket Beach: 11,000 tons of coal from six barges wrecked in the Portland Gale. If you live in Hull or nearby, or take a shine to lifesaving, grab a copy to read.