In recognition of the new trails opening at William Minot Forest, the Wareham Historical Society gave a lecture on the history of the Minot family and the dedicatees of the new trail loops on Monday, July 17.

Many residents joined the historical society to learn more about the new paths, the history of the forest and to motivate themselves to explore the trails.

“I said, ‘You know what? Maybe it will inspire me to go walk on the trails,” said Karen McCully about the informative session. “I need some outdoor inspiration.”

William Minot III, the original owner of the land, bought the property with his cousin, Steven Minot Weld, Jr. Following Minot’s passing in 1900, the land was ultimately donated to the Town of Wareham in 1951 for $1. The town rededicated the forest in 1992, protecting it in perpetuity.

William “Bill” Minot VI, the great-grandson of Minot III, was an “active and dedicated” member of the Minot Forest Committee and a founding member of the YMCA, according to Historical Society President Angela Dunham.

“Bill was a kind, kind guy,” said Tom Monaghan, who met Minot VI in a water aerobics class. “He made a difference, really cared about the town.”

Since it was acquired by Wareham, the forest has been a large recreational spot in town, allowing residents and visitors to hike, mountain bike and more.

On Saturday, June 17, the town opened the new trails to the public, which included “Don’s loop,” “Marjorie’s loop” and “Anne’s loop.”

All three trails were named after late Wareham residents who dedicated much of their time to conservation within the town.

“Don’s loop” is named after Donald B. Hall, who died in 2020. He was born in Middleboro and graduated from Wareham High School. Hall was a long-time member of the Minot Forest Committee, Open Space Committee and other town organizations.

“Marjorie’s loop” is dedicated to Marjorie M. Teitelbaum, who died in 2009. Teitelbaum had an extensive background in the sciences as a lab researcher for Boston University Medical School. She was also a teacher within the Wareham School District for many years.

Teitelbaum served on the Minot Forest Committee, Open Space Committee and Community Preservation Committee. She also served as a delegate for two local water protection committees.

Anne Campbell, the namesake of “Anne’s loop,” died in 2021. Campbell owned and operated Depot Auto Services in East Wareham for many years. She was also dedicated to working in civic affairs, serving on the Open Space Committee and the Onset Protective League.

The three loops are open to the public for multi-use recreation.

“The best way to appreciate nature is to get out there and walk [the trails] and enjoy,” said Monaghan.

“Go and enjoy the trails,” said Dunham. “It’s such a wonderful natural resource.”