Explore Peddocks Island on Oct. 18, 2009

Join the Volunteers and Friends of the Boston Harbor Islands, and island park rangers, for a tour of Peddocks Island on Sunday, October 18, 2009 from 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM. Peddocks Island has a long and storied history that has escaped notice by thousands of present day mariners and commuters who ply the waters between Hull and Quincy each year. In fact, many Hullonians aren’t aware that Peddocks Island is within the corporate boundaries of Hull.

From harbor protection to national park area, the uses of Peddocks Island have varied greatly based on the needs of Native Americans, Colonists and Bostonians. The island’s proximity to the mainland ensured its prominent military role. During the Revolutionary War, patriot’s raided a loyalist farm and Peddocks saw over 600 militiamen stationed on the island to guard the harbor against the return of British troops. In more recent times, Fort Andrews protected the harbor from 1904 to the end of World War II. Twenty-six structures remain, including guardhouses, prisoner-of-war barracks, stables, a gymnasium and a firehouse. At 184 acres, Peddocks is one of the largest, most diverse islands in the harbor. Gravel bars called tombolos link the five drumlins that form the island. Fort Andrews to the east overlooks the waters of Hull Gut. Quaint cottages and a salt marsh occupy the Middle Head, while West Head is a conservation area. Join the Friends and Park Rangers for a walk through history and rustic island terrain.

Advance ticket purchase is recommended. The boat will pick up passengers at Fan Pier in Boston at 11:00 AM and Pemberton Point Pier in Hull at 11:45 AM.

Adult $28; FBHI member or Senior (65+) $25; College students w/ID $20; Child (3-12) $20; FBHI child member $18. Purchase online at http://www.fbhi.org/. A $2.00 transaction fee per ticket will apply.

For additional information, contact Volunteers and Friends of the Boston Harbor Islands located at 349 Lincoln Street, Building 45, Hingham, MA. Phone: 781-740-4290.