Nestled within the serene Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary in Sharon, Massachusetts, lies a fascinating relic from the past—the Moose Hill Cistern. This intriguing structure, found along the Bluff Trail, piques the curiosity of explorers who stumble upon it. Despite its obscurity, the Moose Hill Cistern is a remarkable piece of history.

Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary, spanning 1,971 acres, is the oldest property of the Massachusetts Audubon Society, established in 1916. It offers diverse habitats, including forests, freshwater marshes, meadows, eskers, and kettle holes. Over 160 species of birds have been observed here, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.

The Moose Hill Cistern, however, stands as an enigmatic structure. A cistern, designed to store liquids, especially water, is waterproof, distinguishing it from wells. These receptacles, used for thousands of years, were vital in areas with scarce or depleted water sources. Historically, cisterns served purposes like cooking, irrigation, and washing, though modern ones are often used for irrigation due to water quality concerns.

The history of the Moose Hill Cistern remains elusive. It sits as a perfect circle of stone walls with an access ramp leading to its base. While its origins and purpose are unknown, it has clearly been abandoned for many decades. Nearby, a modern water tower stands, symbolizing the evolution of water storage technology.

Visitors to the sanctuary can ponder the cistern's role in the past, marveling at its meticulous construction. Despite its mysterious history, the Moose Hill Cistern serves as a tangible link to a time when communities relied on inventive methods to secure their water supply.

While much about the Moose Hill Cistern remains a mystery, its presence within the sanctuary invites contemplation. As you explore the Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary, take a moment to discover this hidden relic and let your imagination wander as you contemplate the stories it holds within its silent stones.

Update as of 2024: It was found out that the cistern was actually once used for orchard operations for the farm which once called Moose Hill home