EVENT
Second Saturday Speaker Series
Before There was a Dam: The Lost Communities of the Wachusett Reservoir
November 8, 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 November 8th, Paul Marrone, forensic engineer and archival photojournalist, will apply his expertise as a retired civil engineer to recreating the untold stories of the communities lost by the construction of the Wachusett Reservoir. This presentation will focus on the town center of West Boylston, including its schools, town hall, churches, and even a factory village.
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.
Original Photo in the Massachusetts Archives
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.