MHS celebrates Milton landmark along the banks of Wagamons Pond

History buffs enjoyed a beautiful spring evening along the banks of Wagamon's Pond at the Burton residence, a historic property once belonging to the family of the pond's namesake. Many reminisced about the days of playing on the banks and the history before they were born.

According to Milton Historical Society records, three Milton men, Joseph Maull, John S. Conwell and William W. Coulter, petitioned the state Senate and the House of Representatives to build a dam across Broadkill Creek. Maull already had a grist and saw mill on the stream, but recognized the benefit of damming the waterway to allow for a more prosperous business.

What seemed like a practical solution was actually a controversial one. The land surrounding Broadkill Creek, the head of the Broadkill River, was full of lush cedar tree forests owned by other residents. Many Miltonians vocalized their disapproval of the loss of a large, forested area to the local economy. Others also cited their concern for the viability of placing an earthen dam in a location that was so affected by tides and the possibility that heavy rains could burst it.

Regardless of the complaints and concerns of Milton citizens, in January 1815 an Act of Assembly was passed allowing for a 41-acre millpond to be built. By 1819 Maull, Conwell, and Coulter completed their gristmill along a branch of the Broadkill Creek and part of their newly-constructed pond.

Controversial beginnings or not, what is known today as Wagamons Pond has become a local landmark. Miltonians for two centuries have picnicked and fished along its banks, sailed and boated through its waters, and local wildlife has made it their source for survival.