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Webb Memorial State Park facts for kids

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Webb Memorial State Park
Webb Memorial State Park, Hingham MA.jpg
Webb Memorial State Park is located in Massachusetts
Webb Memorial State Park
Webb Memorial State Park
Location in Massachusetts
Location Weymouth, Norfolk, Massachusetts, United States
Area 59 acres (24 ha)
Elevation 33 ft (10 m)
Established 1980
Named for William K. Webb
Operator Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation
Website Webb Memorial State Park

Webb Memorial State Park is a fun public park in Massachusetts. It sits on a piece of land that sticks out into Hingham Bay. This area is part of Boston Harbor. The park is made up of three small hills called drumlins. It also has a low, wet area known as a marsh. Webb Memorial State Park is special because it is the only part of the Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area that is on the mainland.

Park History

From Factory to Park

The land where Webb Memorial State Park now sits has a long history. In the 1860s, it was part of a big factory. This factory made fertilizer. Sadly, the factory used the land to dump its waste.

Missile Site Days

Later, in the 1950s, the peninsula became a secret military site. It held missile launchers for a special defense system. This system was called a Nike missile site. These missiles were used to protect the area. The control systems for these missiles were on an island nearby. This island is now called Spinnaker Island.

The missile site was closed down in 1974. It was no longer needed.

Becoming a State Park

In 1977, the land was given to the state of Massachusetts. Work then began to turn the old missile site into a beautiful park. Webb Memorial State Park officially opened in 1980. It was named after William Webb. He was a police officer from the nearby town of Weymouth.

Things to Do and See

Webb Memorial State Park is a great place to visit. You can enjoy amazing views of the Boston skyline. It is a perfect spot for fishing. Many people also come here for picnics. There are also nice walking trails to explore.

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