August 19th, 2022: Boundary Pond- Pittsburg, New Hampshire

My husband and I made our way to the tippy top of the state of New Hampshire last weekend to explore Boundary Pond for the first time. We walked down a small rocky path that eventually opened up to a little pond that was gently caressed by the wilderness surrounding it. Unless you were looking for it, it's doubtful that you would find it. But if you are seeking peace and serendipity, you may find it here. While looking out across the pond you can most definitely hear the delicate waves blowing across. Find yourself a comfy seat, and if you look hard enough you can almost see the Canadian border.. or maybe an animal or two. ;)

While exploring this quaint little pond, my husband and I discovered a plaque placed onto a rock near the shore, right by the pond’s dam. It was dedicated to a man named Gary E Waterhouse. Reading of a death in the line of duty up here puzzled me; and it led me to do some reading this week.

Upon reading, this is what I had discovered:

Gary E Waterhouse was a conservation officer (also known as a game warden) in the North Country. He loved his job. Unfortunately, he sadly passed away at the young age of 36, suffering a heart attack in the late 1960’s while perusing possible illegal fisherman with a fellow conservation officer. Unable to call for help quickly and adequately, (before cell phones and in a remote area) he sadly succumbed to his medical emergency at the pond before EMS services were able to arrive.

Gary was known for his extreme stature, standing at 6 feet 6 inches tall. However, I hope that his size doesn’t confuse you, as he was known for his incredibly kind nature, adopting the nickname of “the jolly green giant.” I’m saddened to read of his passing, but am thankful for that little plaque dedicated to him, and hope that others may also hear of his story when they venture up to this pond, and think upon The Jolly Green Giant's memory too.

Marshall Hudson. "Boundary Pond's Jolly Green Giant" NH Magazine. Yankee Publishing. September 17, 2020. August 18th, 2022.