Middle Brewster Island is a small, rugged island in the outer harbor of Boston Harbor, Massachusetts. It's part of the Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park, but it's important to know that access to Middle Brewster Island is discouraged.
Here's why:
- Difficult Access: The island is surrounded by sharp cliffs and sunken rocks, making it difficult to land a boat. There are no beaches or inlets, so you can only access it by private boat and will need to anchor offshore.
- Limited Facilities: There are no facilities on the island, meaning no docks, restrooms, or even designated trails.
- Aggressive Birds: Middle Brewster Island is a major nesting site for gulls and cormorants. During nesting season, these birds can be very aggressive, making it unsafe to visit.
If you do choose to visit (at your own risk), here's what you might find:
- Remnants of Past Inhabitants: You can find some interesting remnants of past human presence, including fireplaces, stone walls, and a stone arch that once supported a bell. These are reminders of the fishermen who lived on the island in the 1800s and the wealthy Bostonians who used it as a summer retreat in the late 1800s.
- Sparse Vegetation: The island has very little vegetation, mostly small trees, sumac, and grasses.
- Wildlife: The main wildlife you'll find are the birds mentioned earlier.
- Views: From the island, you can get excellent views of the surrounding outer harbor islands, The Graves, and Hull. You can also see partial views of the Boston skyline.
Important Considerations:
- Safety: Due to the difficult access and aggressive birds, visiting Middle Brewster Island can be dangerous. It's crucial to be cautious and aware of your surroundings if you decide to go.
- Respect for Nature: Please remember that this is a nesting site for birds. If you do visit, be sure to minimize your impact and avoid disturbing the birds or their nests.
Overall:
Middle Brewster Island is a remote and challenging destination. It's not recommended for casual visitors, but it might appeal to adventurous boaters or those with a strong interest in the history and ecology of the Boston Harbor Islands.