"Lake Quannapowitt, the center of recreational activities in Wakefield, drew scores of local youth to its shores during the winter months for skating and pick-up hockey games. Although winter 1969 was cold, the ice remained unsafe well into January, with Safety Officer Max Ramocki issuing a caution to residents of unsafe conditions. Despite several below-freezing days, the Lake was partially open in early 1969. This unusual pattern led to much speculation, and it was determined that the first theories - that vegetation controlling chemicals were responsible, and that the American Mutual building at the head of the Lake caused air currents - were not the case; rather, the winds that accompanied the cold temperatures caused the water to remain in motion. At the time, it was common for alerts to be issued by the Town about skating conditions and for parents to call the Police of Fire Department to see if the Lake was safe. The Department of Public Works was also called in many times to plow sections of the Lake near the boat ramp at Veterans' Field, for skaters." Image from the Wakefield Municipal Gas and Light Department annual calendar, 2012 Photo courtesy of John Devlin
