Edwin Upton Curtis Memorial Urn

What secrets do these silent stone sentinels hold? Here, gracing the Charles River Esplanade, stands the Edwin Upton Curtis Memorial. The Edwin Upton Curtis Memorial isn’t just an ornate decoration. It’s a poignant echo of a man who shaped Boston’s history. Edwin Upton Curtis, a name synonymous with both mayoral leadership and police reform, is immortalized in these twin urns. The Edwin Upton Curtis Memorial, originally placed near Clarendon Street in 1923, found its permanent home on the Esplanade near the Hatch Shell a year later. These large, decorative urns weren’t designed for ashes. They were meant to be symbolic. They represent the enduring impact of Curtis’s contributions to the city. Curtis, a seventh-generation Bostonian, wore many hats. He served as Boston’s mayor from 1895-1896, advocating for education, election reform, and public parks. Later, as Police Commissioner, he faced the tumultuous 1919 Boston Police Strike. His controversial decision to not recognize the police union led to widespread unrest and ultimately, his dismissal. However, Curtis was later reinstated and oversaw the recruitment of a new police force. Interestingly, Curtis is credited with integrating Boston’s police force, introducing African-American officers for the first time. The Edwin Upton Curtis Memorial stands as a quiet reminder of this complex and influential figure. A man who, despite controversy, left an indelible mark on Boston’s history. As you stroll along the Esplanade, take a moment to appreciate these urns. They hold more than meets the eye. They whisper stories of mayoral triumphs, police struggles, and the evolving landscape of Boston.