Citing security issues, the town of Lancaster stunned Harvard officials last week by moving to annex one of Harvard’s most iconic and scenic spots: the section of Prospect Hill Road between Madigan Lane and Depot Road. Lancaster public safety officials have long been concerned about the threat of a takeover by neighboring Harvard, fearing that seemingly innocent gatherings along Prospect Hill Road were actually part of an undercover surveillance operation. “From almost anywhere on that road, the view of Lancaster is panoramic, and people are always taking photographs and videos of the town’s topographical features,” said one official who supported the annexation proclamation.
Long known as a less pretentious and more affordable community than Harvard, but with comparable beauty and a more compelling history, Lancaster also has assets Harvard desperately needs: diverse housing, well-maintained athletic fields, and terrific ice cream.
While acknowledging Lancaster’s undeniable attractions, Harvard officials denied ever planning to take those assets by force. But they were reluctant to wholeheartedly condemn the annexation idea. With warm weather approaching, the possibility of turning over to Lancaster the headache of dealing with complaints about partying on the Prospect Hill overlook had its appeal. “Of course we oppose this illegal land grab in principle,” said one Select Board member, “but in practice, this could work to our advantage. Maybe we can negotiate some kind of collaborative deal for the playing fields, if nothing else.”
