[3] The history of the dam traces back to 1632 when construction of a fish weir was authorized.

The current dam, maintained by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, dates from 1900.

The Pequossette (one of the tribes of the Massachusett people) inserted stakes into the river then interwove brushwood to create a weir that would trap the herring as the tide went out.

[5] Today, a fish ladder provides access to upstream spawning habitat as part of a system of fish passages that provide access up to river mile 20.

[6] The high concentrations of blueback herring and alewife below the dam in the spring make it a popular fishing spot for herring gulls, great black-backed gulls, great blue herons, night herons and cormorants.