The town acquired the Ryder property in 1973 as one of five parcels of land. The Ryder property itself consists of 12 original parcels of land which equaled 254 acres in total. According to local historian John Cullity, “There were seven owners involved, all connected to the Ryder family, whose homestead was in Cotuit Village. The total purchase price was $1,463,916., a whopping sum (there was a state and federal assistance), but it passed 491 to 35. It was a worthy investment, with huge conservation and recreational value much appreciated over the years.”

The property is divided in half by Cotuit Road which runs north/south. There are main entrances on Cotuit Road and South Sandwich Road where an interior road allows access to the Wakeby Pond. During the summer months, Work-campers tend the property, checking in visitors and maintaining the trail systems at the property.