Rainsford Island
| Rainsford Island | ||
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| Waters | Boston Harbor , Atlantic Ocean | |
| Geographical location | 42 ° 18 '43 " N , 70 ° 57' 15" W | |
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| surface | 8.7 ha | |
| Highest elevation | 14.9 m | |
Rainsford Island is an island in Boston Harbor . It is located 6.33 mi (10.2 km ) from downtown Boston in the state of Massachusetts in the United States and covers an area of approximately 21.6 acres (8.7 hectares ). It is administered by the City of Boston and is part of the Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area .
geography
geology
The island consists of two drumlins that rise to a height of 49 ft (14.9 m ). The coastal areas of the island are exposed to severe erosion on the north side , while they are still partially protected on the northeast and east side by a ruined bank fortification. The coastline is rocky and has a small sandy bay in the south.
Flora and fauna
Bluegrass , hardwood and Rhus grow on the island . The island's wildlife is still the subject of scientific research.
history
The Indians already used the island for various purposes. During the colonial period, the settlers farmed on it and also used it as pasture. Institutional use began in 1737 and lasted - with a few interruptions - for almost two hundred years until 1929. During this period, the island served at various times as a quarantine station , poor house , hospital for veterans and as a reform school for boys. Today the remains of a 19th century resort can still be found on the island.
Attractions
There are still some remains of the former buildings on the island. The remains of a pier and a partially dilapidated granite bank fortification can also be seen .
Individual evidence
- ↑ a b c d e Island Facts: Rainsford Island. National Park Service , accessed June 30, 2013 .
Web links
- Brian MacQuarrie: Reclaiming Island's past plans eyed to give Rainsford a face lift, make it a public asset. In: The Boston Globe . May 26, 2001, accessed June 30, 2013 (English, paid article).
- Boston Harbor Islands. Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation , accessed June 30, 2013 (DCR basic information about the sanctuary, travel preparations, and behavior).