The Waterworks Museum is located on the site of the original Chestnut Hill Reservoir and pumping station. By the 1880's, Boston's water system couldn't keep up with the rapid growth of the city and its water needs. Chestnut Hill was identified as the location for a new reservoir and main pumping station. The original station was built in 1887, but by the 1890's, it was clear that demand had quickly outstripped the ability to transport sufficient water. The need for more water resulted in the installation of increasingly powerful (and enormous!) pumping engines, which operated every day until the 1970's, when the site was taken offline, and Boston's water supply shifted to the Quabbin Reservoir. The Chestnut Hill Reservoir, however, is still used as a back-up source of water in case of emergencies.
So why visit us?
We tell some important regional stories about clean water, health, people, brilliant engineers, and magnificent architecture. Our stories tell how Boston grew to be the city it is today.
You can explore the remarkable machinery, wonder at the massive wrenches that kept the pumps running, and marvel at the beautiful architecture. You can take a walking tour of the Chestnut Hill Reservoir, the centerpiece of an extraordinary landscaping project, or venture out on an all-day bus excursion, led by experts on all things water-related. You can attend special events, talks, or if you are a teacher, visit with a school group. In the future, you will be able to hear podcasts of some of our events! Please review our calendar of events and activities to plan your visit.