Washburn Island, Massachusetts facts for kids
Washburn Island is a special place off the coast of East Falmouth, Massachusetts. It's about 330 acres (which is roughly 1.3 square kilometers) and sits inside Waquoit Bay. This island is a great spot for camping in a simple, natural way. It's also part of the Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, which helps protect the environment. Washburn Island belongs to the town of Falmouth, located in Barnstable County, near the village of Waquoit.
During World War II, the island was home to a military camp called Camp Washburn.
Contents
Exploring Washburn Island's Nature
Washburn Island is full of different natural areas. You can find marshlands, sandy dunes, and small ponds. The island's woods are filled with pine and oak trees. It's a great place to see different kinds of plants and animals.
Washburn Island's Past
Early History and Native People
Long ago, the native people called this island Menauhant. They lived on and used the land for many years. Scientists have found old tools and shell piles on the island. These items show that people lived here between 450 and 1000 years ago.
Farms and Land Use
Over time, the island was owned by different people. In the mid-1800s, there were three farms on Washburn Island. To make space for these farms and for cows to graze, some trees were cut down. However, only one of these farms lasted until the end of that century.
Becoming a State Park
Washburn Island was one of the last undeveloped coastal areas on Cape Cod. It is surrounded by the Seapit River and Eel Pond. Throughout history, big coastal storms sometimes connected the island to the mainland. Other times, the storms separated it again. Today, it is truly an island.
In 1983, the state of Massachusetts bought the island. They wanted to make it a state park. This helps protect the island's natural beauty and history for everyone to enjoy.
