Middle Brewster Island facts for kids

Middle Brewster Island is a cool, wild island in the Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area. It's about 9 miles (14.5 km) away from downtown Boston by boat. This island is known for its rocky shores and tall cliffs.

Discovering Middle Brewster Island

Middle Brewster Island is not very big, covering about 13 acres (5.3 hectares). It rises to a height of 52 feet (15.8 meters) above the ocean. The island has steep cliffs and hidden rocks around its edges. There aren't many plants growing there, but it's a very important place for birds.

Home for Birds

The island is a special home for many gulls and cormorants. These birds come to Middle Brewster Island to build their nests and raise their young. During their nesting season, which is when they lay eggs and care for their babies, the birds can be quite protective. Because of this, it's best for people to stay away during that time.

Getting to the Island

Visiting Middle Brewster Island can be tricky. There are no easy beaches or small bays where boats can land. You can only get there by private boat, and it's quite a challenge to step ashore safely.

Why the Name "Brewster"?

Middle Brewster Island, along with its neighbors Great Brewster, Little Brewster, and Outer Brewster, got its name from a famous person. They are all named after William Brewster. He was an important leader and teacher for the Plymouth Colony, one of the first settlements in America.

A Look Back in Time

Long ago, in the 1700s, Middle Brewster Island was home to a group of fishermen. They lived there while they worked. Later, in the 1800s, some people from Boston used the island as a quiet place to relax during the summer. You can still find old parts of their homes on the island today. These include old fireplaces, stone walls, and even an arch that once held a bell.