Fox Island (Waltham) facts for kids
 Fox Island
Location in Massachusetts
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| Geography | |
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| Location | Charles River |
| Coordinates | 42°21′33″N 71°15′08″W / 42.3590875°N 71.2521084°W |
| Administration | |
| State | Massachusetts |
| Municipality | Waltham |
Fox Island is a small, beautiful island located in the Charles River in Waltham, Massachusetts. It is a public place, meaning anyone can visit. No one lives on the island, and it is covered in trees. The island is owned by the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR). The DCR manages parks and natural areas in Massachusetts.
Contents
Discovering Fox Island
Fox Island is a quiet, natural spot in the Charles River. It is a minor island, which means it is quite small. The island is completely forested, offering a green escape. It is a great place to enjoy nature and the river.
Why is it called Fox Island?
The island's name, Fox Island, is connected to a nearby area called Fox Park. Fox Park is located just west and north of the island. Both the island and the park are owned by the DCR. This connection suggests they might have been part of the same larger property or area in the past.
Fox Island's Past: A Fun Getaway
Fox Island has an interesting history. Around 1865, part of the island was owned by a person named Stephen B. Cram. Later, in 1891, a man named Harvey Bartlett opened a special place called Forest Grove and Fox Island.
An Old Amusement Spot
This spot was like a small amusement park or a fun getaway. It had many attractions for people to enjoy. Visitors could go swimming in the river. There were also bathing houses where people could change. For entertainment, there was a carousel, a dance hall, and a refreshment stand. A bridge connected Forest Grove to Fox Island, making it easy to go between the two areas.
Competition and Change
Bartlett's business faced a challenge when Norumbega Park opened nearby in 1897. Norumbega Park was a much larger and more modern amusement park. This new competition made it harder for Forest Grove and Fox Island to attract visitors. Even so, Fox Island remained a popular place. It was a favorite spot for young couples to spend time together. It also attracted brave swimmers who enjoyed the river.
Today, Fox Island is a peaceful, natural area. It is a reminder of its lively past as a local attraction.
