Approaching the Watertown Founders Monument, a sense of history washes over you. This monument, dedicated in 1931, isn’t just a statue; it’s a portal to the very beginnings of Watertown. It stands proudly on Charles River Road, a testament to the visionaries who dared to build a new community in the wilderness. The monument centers around Sir Richard Saltonstall, a key figure in Watertown’s founding. Saltonstall, along with Reverend George Phillips, led a group of settlers to the area in 1630. Initially known as Saltonstall Plantation, the settlement quickly took root, becoming the town of Watertown. The monument itself is a work of art, sculpted by Henry Hudson Kitson, a renowned sculptor of his time. Kitson didn’t just create a statue of Saltonstall; he brought history to life through the two bas-reliefs flanking the central figure. One bas-relief captures the landing of Roger Clap and his party. They interacted with the Pequossette Indians before eventually settling in Dorchester. The other bas-relief portrays a pivotal moment in American history: the 1632 tax protest by Watertown residents. This act of defiance is considered the first protest against taxation without representation in America. The monument also bears inscriptions of Saltonstall’s wise words, reminding us of the importance of humility and unity. Look closely, and you’ll find the names of dozens of the original settlers etched into the stone. These names whisper stories of courage, perseverance, and the dream of a new life in a new world. The Watertown Founders Monument stands as a tribute to these early settlers and their enduring legacy. It serves as a reminder of the humble beginnings of this historic town.
Rumney Marsh Burial Ground
A chill wind whispers through the aged headstones. This is Rumney Marsh Burial Ground. This historic cemetery dates back to