Belle Isle Marsh Reservation facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Belle Isle Marsh Reservation |
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 Belle Isle Marsh Reservation
Location in Massachusetts
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| Location | Suffolk, Massachusetts, United States |
| Area | 188 acres (76 ha) |
| Elevation | 0 ft (0 m) |
| Established | 1985 |
| Operator | Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation |
| Website | Belle Isle Marsh Reservation |
Belle Isle Marsh Reservation is a special nature area in Boston, Massachusetts. It's like a big outdoor classroom! This reservation protects a large area of coastal wetlands, which are lands covered by water, like marshes. It's the last big piece of salt marsh left in Boston.
Salt marshes are unique places where salty ocean water mixes with fresh water. They are home to many different kinds of plants, sea creatures, and birds. The Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts takes care of this important natural space. The reservation was officially created in 1985.
History of Belle Isle Marsh
Long ago, Belle Isle was actually an island, surrounded by water. In 1628, a man named William Brereton was given the island. He named it Susana Island after his daughter.
Later, maps showed it as Hog Island or Hogg Island. Near the end of the 1700s, Joseph Russel bought the island and named it Belle Isle. In 1800, John Breed purchased it and lived there, so it became known as Breed's Island.
Today, part of the original island is a developed area called Orient Heights. The rest of it is the beautiful Belle Isle Marsh we see now. It is no longer a separate island but is connected to the mainland.
Things to Do and See
Belle Isle Marsh Reservation is a great place to visit and explore nature. There are many things you can do there:
- Hiking Paths: Enjoy walking on paths that are nicely kept.
- Benches: Find places to sit and relax while enjoying the views.
- Observation Tower: Climb up the tower for amazing views of the marsh and surrounding areas. You might even spot some cool birds!
- Handicap Access: The reservation is designed to be easy for everyone to visit.
- Boston Harborwalk: A part of the famous Boston Harborwalk goes through the reservation. This is a public path along the Boston waterfront.
This reservation is a peaceful spot where you can connect with nature. It's a reminder of the natural beauty that once covered the Massachusetts Bay shoreline.
Images for kids
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View of the marsh
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Homes in Revere adjacent to the marsh
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From the observation tower
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Great egrets
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Marsh with Boston skyline in the distance
