Peddocks Island facts for kids
Peddocks Island is one of the biggest islands in Boston Harbor. Since 1996, it has been part of the Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area. The Department of Conservation and Recreation manages the island.
On its eastern side, you'll find the old Fort Andrews. This fort was important for defending the harbor from 1904 until the end of World War II. On the western side, there are some privately owned cottages. You can also find campsites on the eastern end. A ferry connects Peddocks Island to Georges Island (where Fort Warren is located) during certain seasons.
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Exploring Peddocks Island's Landscape
Peddocks Island is located across Hull Gut from Hull, Massachusetts. It is also across West Gut from Nut Island and Houghs Neck. The island's exact spot is 42° 17' 32.6" North latitude and 70° 56' 21.6" West longitude.
The island covers about 210.4 acres (0.85 square kilometers). At low tide, its total area is 288 acres. The highest point on the island is 80 feet (24 meters) above sea level. Peddocks Island has the longest shoreline of any island in Boston Harbor. It is made up of four main land areas, called headlands. These headlands are connected by natural sand or gravel paths known as tombolos.
A Look Back at Peddocks Island's Past
Like many Boston Harbor Islands, Native Americans lived on Peddocks Island before Europeans arrived. Since 1634, the island was mainly used for farming. Because it was close to mainland Boston, it was also used for military purposes.
During the American Revolutionary War, more than 600 militiamen were stationed here. Their job was to guard against British troops returning after Gen. George Washington forced them out of Boston on March 17, 1776. It is also believed that patriot soldiers raided a Loyalist farm on the island.
In 1887, a fishing village began on the island. This community was the start of the cottages you see there today.
Fort Andrews and Its Role
In 1904, Fort Andrews was built on the island. This fort was an active part of the harbor's defense until the end of World War II. As of 2008, 26 of the original buildings from Fort Andrews were still standing. These included guardhouses, barracks for prisoners, stables, a gym, and a firehouse. Most of these buildings were in poor condition and were closed to visitors for safety reasons.
Recent Island Developments
In 1993, the people who owned cottages on the island were given permission to live there for the rest of their lives. After that, the park would take over the cottages.
In 2008, Peddocks Island was used to film parts of the movie Shutter Island. This movie starred Leonardo DiCaprio.
In 2011, Boston provided $7.8 million to improve the island. This money will help demolish 11 buildings and restore another 11. The goal is to make the island more welcoming for visitors. It will become a historical museum and a nature reserve. New walking and hiking trails will also be added, along with tours of the historical buildings.
Wildlife and Plants on Peddocks Island
On the southern end of Peddocks Island, there is a freshwater marsh. This is a wet, grassy area with fresh water.
The most common tree and shrub species on the island include maple, birch, oak, pine, poplar, sumac, and apple trees. You can also find wild roses and poison ivy growing on the island.
Animals like deer and coyotes also live on Peddocks Island.
