By Kay Gardner-Westcott
From Independence to Interdependence: Wayland’s Water Story Joins the Regional Flow
As we continue to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, we reflect on the events, abilities, and liberties it set in motion.
Across generations, we’ve witnessed small stories and sweeping changes—innovations, civic developments, and social progress. Ever wonder who made it happen, what changed, why it mattered, when it began, and especially—how?
One such story is unfolding right here in Wayland. With its recent integration into the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) system, Wayland enters a new chapter in its relationship with water—one that bridges centuries of innovation and regional cooperation. From rural self-reliance to shared infrastructure, Wayland’s connection to the MWRA reflects Greater Boston’s evolving water network, a system that has been developing since the 19th century.
To explore this transformation, the Wayland Museum and Wayland Public Library welcomes Eric Peterson, executive director of the Metropolitan Waterworks Museum in Chestnut Hill. Peterson will present on the historical development of one of the nation’s earliest public water systems and explain how Wayland’s new connection is not just a modern solution but a continuation of its long-standing ties to Boston’s water infrastructure.
Peterson’s journey with the Waterworks Museum began in 2009 while earning his master’s in Museum Studies. Since then, he has dedicated himself to preserving and interpreting industrial history. For the past eight years, he has championed public awareness of the vital role history plays in shaping the present. He currently serves as chair of the Industrial Museum Professional Affinity Group of the New England Museum Association and is a co-founder of Industrial History New England.
The flow of history will be traced—from aqueducts and pumping stations to today’s regional water solutions—and discover how Wayland’s story fits into a much larger narrative of innovation, cooperation, and community care.
The talk is Wednesday, Nov. 12, 7 to 8 p.m. in-person or Zoom, in the Raytheon Room at the Wayland Free Public Library, 5 Concord Road. Enter the back door (east side) of the Children’s Room.
