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roboteyes
Aug 27, 2003, 7:17 PM
Post #1 of 2
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Registered: Aug 8, 2003
Posts: 3
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So, I live a few blocks away from Bancroft Tower. I figured I'd post a little info since there isn't any here and I'm highly interested in developing some urban climbing in the Worcester, MA area, purely because it's close to me and free. :twisted: A friend and I have free soloed up the back the tower, just up to the first window. It is the only window that doesn't have an iron bar in it anymore. The rocks are all very big and round. Almost All Slopers. That allows you to get inside and explore without any gear, which is fun in itself.
We were there one day when a group of local guys showed up with some gear and watched as one of them climbed up and clipped onto one of the iron bars, while his friend belayed. We were at the top and got to watch him plummet almost all the way to the ground, being saved big-time by the belay. After that, he managed to get up to the top. Once you get to the top, there is a big iron spiral stair-case that leads up to the top of the turret. It can be used to make a bomber anchor. The rest of the group used it successfully.
The climb isn't much for any exciting lines. They're all pretty similar, although the arc in the middle can be used, as the guy in the pic in the Bancroft section is doing.
One more tip if you're going to play at Bancroft. The residents are ever watchful for ruffians and trouble-makers, so just be aware that you may be being watched, and the cops may show if you linger too long. Also, Bancroft is a notorious MAKE-OUT-SPOT. So if you have your climbing sweetheart with you, there are other activities to engage in while parked facing the smoggy seven hill city. :wink: On particular nights, the top of the tower has a great view of the moon too.
Also, any other climbers that know of other places to climb inside the city limits, message me and let me know!
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the_pirate
Aug 27, 2003, 7:33 PM
Post #2 of 2
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Registered: May 20, 2003
Posts: 3984
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Damn that brings back memories.
Back in the day the tower was a regular on the worcester circuit. Never saw anyone do it with gear though. I climbed up to that window more times than I can recall. Pretty much every time they replaced the chain on the door. The top of the tower is THE spot to hang out and watch a summertime thunderstorm roll in. I only climbed to the top once. Slightly too high a boulder problem for my tastes.
Try doing the arch sometime....
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