Bumpkin Island facts for kids

Bumpkin Island is a cool island located in the Hingham Bay part of Boston Harbor. It's also known by other names like Round Island or Ward's Island. This island has a really interesting history, serving different purposes over the years, from a hospital for kids to a Navy base. Today, it's a fun place to visit and explore as part of the Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area.
The island covers about 30 acres of land. It also has an extra 31 acres of "intertidal zone." This is the sandy or muddy area along the coast that gets covered by water at high tide and uncovered at low tide. Bumpkin Island has a main hill called a "drumlin," which is a type of hill shaped by glaciers. This drumlin rises about 70 feet above the sea. The island's edges are rocky, and at low tide, a natural land bridge called a sand spit connects its eastern side to Sunset Point in Hull.
A Look Back: Bumpkin Island's Past
Bumpkin Island has a rich history, changing roles many times. It's important to learn about its past to understand its significance today.
Early Hospital for Children
In 1902, a kind person named Albert Burrage helped open a summer hospital on Bumpkin Island. Albert Burrage was a "philanthropist," which means he was a wealthy person who used his money to help others and good causes. This hospital was special because it cared for children who had physical disabilities. It was a place where they could get treatment and enjoy the fresh air of the island during the warmer months.
World War I and II Uses
During World War I, Bumpkin Island took on a new role. The United States Navy used the island for its operations. It became a strategic location for military activities during the war.
Later, around 1940, the island was used as a facility for patients suffering from polio. Polio was a serious disease that could cause paralysis. However, when World War II began, the hospital on the island had to close. Sadly, the hospital building burned down in 1945.
Becoming a National Recreation Area
After its varied past, Bumpkin Island became part of the Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area in 1996. This means it's now protected and managed for everyone to enjoy. It's a place where people can learn about nature, history, and have outdoor adventures.
Visiting Bumpkin Island Today
If you want to explore Bumpkin Island, it's pretty easy to get there, especially during the summer and on weekends.
How to Get There
You can reach Bumpkin Island by taking a shuttle boat. This boat usually leaves from Georges Island. From Georges Island, you can catch ferries that travel to and from major cities like Boston and Quincy. It's a great way to experience the harbor and see the island up close!