The Waterloom Penstock
New Ipswich Historical Society
A penstock is a sluice or gate or intake structure that controls water flow, or an enclosed pipe that delivers water to hydro turbines and sewerage systems. The term is inherited from the earlier technology of mill ponds and watermills - Wikipedia
June 2015
I first learned of the Waterloom Penstock in June of 2015 when they were repairing the bridge. I noticed a large circular capped pipe coming out of the ground. It is visible on the left side of this photo.
The Locals Knew
Even though I had lived in town forty years I was unaware of this mysterious pipe. However the locals knew all about it. They would ride their bicycles along the pipe and observe the weird ice structures caused by leaks. After learning of it I had to do a little exploring.
Dennis Gauvin Photos
Dennis Gauvin took some photos of the pipe in June 18, 2004 for the Historical Society. I wasn’t a member at that time and had to wait 11 years to learn of this thing.
The Early Years
On this day - April 3, 1908
James Roger diary entry
3rd April 1908 (Friday) 27
Cold N.W. wind varying to W in afternoon with snow shower in morning. David choring at wood in forenoon. Also swept up Spofford’s and put ice picks &c. Preston’s. Then went for a load of grain for F. Shirland ,Doonan of Greenville. Bought 360 eggs from himself. Robbins & Fowler. W. Preston telephoned for 100 eggs which he will come for on Sunday. David put 100 of his eggs in tender incubator. Got letter from Hamish who is keeping well and busy. (This is my dear Mary’s birthday and the snow is covering her lonely grave).
Notes:
Mary was James’ daughter, buried in Central Cemetery
We rode our bikes several times on the Penstock back in early '60's. From the beginning, to High Bridge. About mid way there was a large Collar or joint that stood up maybe a foot above the actual pipe and someone had built a ramp with boards so you could ride up and over it... or carry the bike over it. Then there was the one picture showing the fairly high drop....15 to probably 20' below to rocks in the Souhegan-- some of us rode over, some walked that part. I don't recall the extreme bend in the pipe as depicted in one picture but it was mentioned that that appeared to be "newer" construction from when we were there.
Great photos and information on the penstock. I'd like to check it out. Very sweet diary entry.