The sisters, public school teachers,[1] had used an inheritance to systematically purchase and clear properties along the Piscataqua River.

The sisters' goal was to create a public waterfront park, free and accessible to all, replacing what had become a run-down and seedy industrial area.

[citation needed] The park was willed to the city of Portsmouth in 1954 for public enjoyment.

[2] Prescott Park comprises over 10 acres (4.0 ha) of waterfront property along the Piscataqua River.

Since 1974 it has hosted full outdoor productions of Broadway plays for family audiences during the summer months.