EVENT
Second Saturday Speaker Series
History of Chestnut Hill Reservoir
August 9, 2025
1pm–2pm
Join us every second Saturday of the month at 1pm to learn more about area and industrial history, engineering, archeology, water access and more from experts in a variety of fields. On August 9th, Senior Program Manager, Reservoir Operations for the MWRA, John Gregoire, will be presenting History of Chestnut Hill Reservoir, Its Gatehouses, How It Fits in the MWRA Water Supply System, and Its Current Operations.
More than two decades before the opening of the iconic pumping station which now houses the Waterworks Museum, the city of Boston began construction on a massive reservoir in the neighborhood of Chestnut Hill. Join John Gregoire, the Senior Program Manager, Reservoir Operations, for the MWRA to learn more about this history of this beautiful piece of water infrastructure, as well as the role in currently plays in our modern system. This presentation, which will include a number of historic images and photographs, should be enjoyable for history buffs and water enthusiasts alike.
All events are upstairs in the Overlook Gallery. The presentations are free and open to everyone, including walk-in visitors, space permitting. Please help us monitor capacity by reserving your FREE tickets in advance.
Upcoming Events
Great Engines Hall
The centerpiece of the Waterworks Museum is its collection of steam engines. Three original coal-powered, steam-driven water pumps are preserved at the Museum and are monuments to 19th century technology and innovation. Leavitt, Worthington, and Allis stand in the Great Engines Hall and reach more than 3 stories tall. Walk around each and see the multitude of perfectly engineered parts that pumped million gallons of freshwater a day into the City of Boston.