I was finally able to walk around the city today. It was still hot, but the smothering blanket of humidity lifted as some fresh winds came in, so I was able to tolerate the heat better. I was walking in the Public Garden when the swan boats were put to bed for the night.
The swan boats have been run by the same family since the late 19th century. They're pedaled by strong young people. Boston is said to be the only city in the world that has them. I heard one of the owners give a talk, and she said they have turned down requests by other cities to franchise the swan boats. The family feels that the Boston Public Garden is an essential part of the swan boat experience. They're really fun to ride on--they glide slowly and quietly around the pond.
