Quabbin: A History and Explorer's Guide

Michael Tougias has written not only an informative and practical guide to the Quabbin Reservoir, but he also tells the personal stories of the lost towns in the Quabbin area and makes its history very human. The text is supplemented by great historical photos and documents which contribute to this incredible story of destruction and rebirth that you otherwise wouldn't believe. Along with the history, the book presents wonderfully detailed maps and descriptions of each of the gates into the Reservoir. So that you don't become overwhelmed with the quantity of choices open to you, Tougias has thoughtfully selected fourteen gates and several trails from which you can begin to familiarize yourself with the area. He highlights these particular gates for walks that would provide a variety of distances, views, terrain and points of interest. I found these starting point suggestions very helpful and accurately described for planning an adventure! Also included are possible bird and animal sightings, which is always a plus. For anyone looking to explore this western Massachusetts gem, I would highly recommend Michael Tougias' book, both for the rich hisory it portrays and the fun it promises!

If the name "Quabbin" is unfamiliar to you, then you're probably not from Massachusetts. This 18-mile-long reservoir was created in the late 1930s and early 1940s when the Swift River Valley in western Mass. was deliberately flooded. The goal of the project was to provide water to Boston and to other selected cities in the commonwealth, which the reservoir still does today. Four towns were lost in the process, however, and a certain historical mystique still surrounds those communities. Here journalist-naturalist Michael Tougias takes us on a tour of the region with stories and scenes from yesterday and today. We learn of the history of the region, the activities of the Metropolitan District Water Supply Commission, who the "woodpeckers" were, and the displacement of residents of Prescott, Enfield, Greenwich, and Dana. Quabbin's magic continues in its gradual acceptance and promotion as a natural resource and recreational area. Today a bald eagle may fly over you as you proceed along a hiking trail or traverse the length of Winsor Dam. At the water's edge, you might startle a feeding moose or hear a loon call to its mate. Take Tougias' book along, and you'll know which of the 55 gates you'll want to use and what you'll see when you get there. Neighboring towns offer unique diversions as well, and the author provides lists and notes for wanderers exploring the area on foot, on bicycle, or by car. Quabbin's beauty can be breathtaking; reading and consulting this book will further your appreciation of the place. A must-buy for New England libraries and for any weekend adventurer.