A variety of wildflowers brighten the landscape of the island. Located amidst several of the larger islands in Quincy Bay, Rainsford Island holds a diverse history, with only scattered foundations remaining. General InformationThis island of Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park is managed by the City of Boston. Visitor Facilities & Services
Short HistoryPrior to European settler colonization, Indigenous peoples accessed the island. During the colonial period, colonists occupied the island and farmed and grazed the land. Institutional use of the island began in 1737 and extended with interruptions for nearly two hundred years until 1925. During this time, the island served as a quarantine hospital, almshouse, veterans hospital, and boys reform school. During the 1800s, a resort house was also located on the island. Only foundations remain today. The island has never supported military facilities. Natural History OverviewVegetationMeadow grasses, hardwoods, sumac groves can be found on the island. WildlifePlease see Animals page for more information. GeologyThe island is composed of two drumlins, reaching an elevation of 49 feet. The island bluffs are eroding on the north side but are partially protected by a dilapidated seawall on the northern and eastern sides. The shoreline is predominantly rocky with a sandy cove in the south side. Water FeaturesViews and VistasOne can see the Blue Hills, Hull, Gallops, Georges, Hangman, Long, Moon, and Peddocks Islands, and Quincy from the island. Structures
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Last updated: November 30, 2023