Water Supplies at Risk: A History of Protecting an Essential Municipal Resource

Water supplies in the United State have endured two World Wars, terrorism threats, natural disasters, environmental hazards, and the occasional infrastructure breakdown. How have these issues been dealt with in the past and what may we face in the future? Marcis Kempe, Executive Director of the Waterworks Museum and a former MWRA engineer, will review the many special threats that have emerged over the years and take a look at how water suppliers have responded to protect public drinking water. Join us SUNDAY, November 29 at 12pm in the Overlook Gallery. The lecture is open to the public with no admission fee, but donations are welcome.

The Metropolitan Waterworks Museum at 2450 Beacon Street in Boston, opposite the Chestnut Hill Reservoir, is a non-profit museum dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of the historic waterworks and buildings which supplied the City of Boston with public water. The Museum presents unique stories of this early metropolitan water system through exhibitions and educational programs on engineering, architecture, social history, and public health. The Waterworks sits on the site of the original Chestnut Hill Reservoir and pumping station in a building dating to the late 1880’s. The Museum consists of the Great Engines Hall, housing three historic steam-powered pumping engines, and a two story glass-enclosed pavilion, featuring the Overlook Gallery. Directions and hours can be found at www.WaterworksMuseum.org. Connect with us on Facebook at Waterworks Museum (official) and on Twitter @MetroWaterworks. Accessible by T on the Green Line “C” and “D” trains, and by Bus (#51 and #86). Limited parking available.