On Saturday, October 18, a small group of local history enthusiasts and hikers gathered at the Robbins Mill Conservation Land parking lot off of Canterbury Hill Rd. for an immersive archaeology walk led by Bettina Abe, retired Acton Conservation Department employee and long-time trail guide. The walk, part of the Friends of Pine Hawk’s ongoing efforts to celebrate and preserve Indigenous history, traced the Nashoba Brook, Robbins Mill, and Spring Hill connector Trails, stopping at sites that reveal layers of human history hidden in plain sight.
One of the most striking moments was seeing the granite slabs at the Roof Slab Quarry, knowing they may have been transported down the frozen Nashoba Brook to become part of a stone chamber that really brought the history to life.
The walk also highlighted Acton’s broader conservation and open-space goals, showing how archaeology encourages community stewardship and a deeper understanding of the region’s Indigenous and colonial past. Friends of Pine Hawk collaborates with the Nashobah Praying Indians and other New England tribes to ensure programs are culturally sensitive and rooted in local knowledge.
This annual hike, known as the “Trail Through Time,” offers participants a mix of nature, history, and education, combining trail exploration with hands-on learning about the cultural and geological forces that shaped the land. By the end of the over two-hour walk, many attendees said they left with a renewed appreciation for both the landscape underfoot and the stories it holds.
Friends of Pine Hawk continues to develop programs, maintain trails, and expand educational resources for the community, ensuring that Acton’s archaeological and cultural treasures remain protected and appreciated for generations to come. See more opportunities for experiential learning at https://www.pinehawk.org/2025-fall-programs/.
Susan Greene is an environmental science consultant, sustainability blogger, and grant writer based in Acton, MA. She is the founder of GreeneUP, a platform that explores sustainable living, climate issues, and community resilience.
