Nomination for Brigham Cemetery

From the form

The catalogue entry the section above was filed under.

93E NPS Form 10-900 (Rev. 10-90) United States Department of the Interior National Park Service OMB No. 1024-0018 National Register of Historic Places Registration Form This form is for use in nominating or requesting determinations for individual properties and districts. See instructions in How to Complete the National Register of Historic Places Registration Form (National Register Bulletin 16A). Complete each item by marking "x" in the appropriate box or by entering 1. Name of Property historic name Brigham Cemetery other names/site number 2. Location street & number _ off West Main Street near Crescent Street N/A not for publication city or town_ Marlborough N/A vicinity state Massachusetts _code_MA countyMiddlesex _code _017 zip code 01752 3.

State/Federal Agency Certification As the designated authority under the National Historic Preservation Act of 1986, as amended, I hereby certify that thishomination request for determination of eligibility meets the documentation standards for registering properties ir the National Register of Historic Places and meets the procedural and professional requirements set forth in 36 CFR Part 60. In my opinion the property 2meets - does not meet the National Register Criteria. I recommend that this property be considered significant nationally O statewide locally. ([See continuation sheet for additional comments.) Detay Fredleng, Hatmal Register Desecto 7/15/04 In my opinion the property [ meets does not meet the National Register Criteria. ([See continuation sheet for additional comments.) Signature of certifying official/Title Date State or Federal Agency and bureau 4.

National Park Service Certification 1, hereby certify that this property is: entered in the National Register - see continuation sheet - determined eligible for the National Register - see continuation sheet - determined not eligible for the National Register - removed from the National Register - other (explain): Brigham Cemetery Name of Property 3. Classification Ownership of Property _ private Xpublic-local _public-State _ public-Federal Category of Property building(s) district X site _ structure object Name of related multiple property listing (enter N/A if property is not part of a multiple property listing) N/A 6.

Function or Use Historic Functions (Enter categories from instructions) Funerary: Cemetery Middlesex County, Massachusetts County and State Number of Resources within Property Contributing Non contributing 1 1 8 10 buildings sites structures objects Total Number of contributing resources previously listed in the National Register N/A Current Functions (Enter categories from instructions) Funerary: Cemetery 7. Description Architectural Classification (Enter categories from instructions) N/A Materials (Enter categories from instructions) N/A Narrative Description (Describe the historic and current condition of the property on one or more continuation sheets) See continuation sheets. NPS Form 10-900-a United States Department of the Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet OMB Approval No.

1024-0018 Brigham Cemetery Marlborough, Middlesex County, MA Section number ] _Page 1 NARRATIVE DESCRIPTION Brigham Cemetery is a small municipal burial ground that retains strong historical associations and distinctive burial markers associated with residents of the surrounding neighborhood. The 12 family monuments and approximately 187 headstones record burials that occurred here between 1793 and 1934, primarily during the 19th century. The cemetery lies in the southwest section of Marlborough, just south of the busy commercial/residential district of West Main Street. The West Main Street Historic District (NR DIS 11/08/2001) lies a few blocks to the northeast. Marlborough Center lies about ½ mile to the east. The cemetery is surrounded by residences on the north and west, and by two Catholic cemeteries, St. Mary's on the south and east, with Immaculate Conception beyond.

The immediate presence of these two large late-19 century cemeteries gives Brigham a very different character than most of Marlborough's other small neighborhood cemeteries. Brigham Cemetery is a 1.12-acre site whose only street access is a narrow pathway leading out to West Main Street. The West Main Street entrance is marked by a double-hung iron gate mounted on two dressed granite pillars. (photo #1) There is a narrow section of plain iron fencing adjacent to the gate. A plaque mounted on the gate reads: Brigham Cemetery This land was given to the Unitarian Society in 1808 by Ephraim Brigham Esq. In 1882 a fund of $1,000 was established by Mrs. Abbie A. Bigelow of Worcester and others to be known as the Gibbon Fund to be held in trust by said society and the income of which is to be devoted to its care and embellishment for future generations.

Let actions in keeping with theplace be always observed by those who frequent its grounds. There is a vacant lot to the east of the West Main Street entrance and multi-family house to the west. The 20' wide pathway leading to the main part of the cemetery is lined on either side with a 3' tall chain link fence. The pathway is turf and little-used; it continues on as a rough track to the southern end of the cemetery where it connects with other paths in the adjacent St. Mary's Cemetery. Brigham Cemetery is enclosed on three sides by a fieldstone perimeter wall, probably a remnant from the earlier agricultural use of the area. The southern boundary is marked by 5' tall concrete posts linked by strands of wire. While there are no other formal entrances to the cemetery, there is informal pedestrian access between Brigham and St. Mary's at the southwest corner.

There is no vehicular access, although emergency vehicles could use the path from West Main Street. (continued) NPS Form 10-900-a United States Department of the Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet OMB Approval No. 1024-0018 Brigham Cemetery Marlborough, Middlesex County, MA Section number ] Page 2 There are no formal plantings in the cemetery but several large deciduous trees are a visually dominant feature. There is also some scrub vegetation around the perimeter, which partially separates Brigham Cemetery from the surrounding residences and St. Mary's Cemetery. The topography, which slopes gradually down towards the west is another distinctive feature of the cemetery. It is steepest at the northwest corner, where terracing is used to create level burial lots.

The spatial organization of the cemetery is created by a system of 71 individual graves and family burial lots (all extant by 1934) laid out in irregular rows. All of the monuments and headstones face west towards nearby Lake Williams. The oldest and most compactly grouped lots are in the southeastern section furthest from West Main Street, while the lots in the northern and western sections of the cemetery are less densely spaced. The delineation of the lots is enhanced by the fact that some are slightly raised above the surrounding area, perhaps indicating former curbing. Four curbed lots remain: the Boyd lot; the Walter Bigelow lot; the Gershom Rice lot; and the Lauramon Russell lot (which is curbed on the front only) (photos #2-3). There is also one lot near the center of the burying ground that is delineated by granite posts but has no headstones or monuments in it.

The family monuments and headstones display a range of funerary styles that were popular from the early 19th century through the early 20" century and clearly illustrate evolving funerary styles during this period. The 12 family monuments vary considerably in their size and style. The largest and most visually prominent is the Walter Bigelow (d. 1872, age 41) monument, a 12' tall eight-sided granite obelisk set on a granite base and pedestal and sited in the curbed Bigelow lot. Nearby is the Witherbee lot with two 6' marble obelisks. A similar marble obelisk, this one with decorative top, marks the Hudson/Rice lot. The Otis Russell (d. 1856, age 63) lot has a 4' marble pillar. The oldest burials in the cemetery, Captain William and Lydia Brigham (d.

1793), as well as the most recent, Lizzie Morrison (1855-1934), are commemorated by a 6' polished granite monument with decorative top that was erected by Lucius Brigham, probably in the 19" century. Two of the Gibbon lots have late 19" century polished granite monuments, as does another of the Russell lots and the Edward Rice lot. There is also a low granite monument in the curbed lot of the Boyd family. There are approximately 73 slate headstones, most of which have a rounded tympanum on a shouldered main block, and display the willow and urn motif. There are several late 18th/early 19* century slates which are fairly simple in their carving. However most of the slates date to the mid to late 19* century and display a more elaborate variations of the willow and urn design, with architectural motifs and more detailed carving.

They range in size from tiny headstones for children to that of Captain George Williams (d. 1813, age 76) which is over 5' tall. Almost all of the slate is dark gray, except for one brown slate in the Loring lot. About half of the slate headstones retain their footstones, which have been relocated adjacent to the headstones for ease of maintenance. (continued) NPS Form 10-900-a United States Department of the Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet OMB Approval No. 1024-0018 Brigham Cemetery Marlborough, Middlesex County, MA Section number 1 _ Page 3 The 83 marble headstones also vary considerably in size and reflect a range of styles frequently used in the mid- 19"" century. Most are fairly simple in shape and are 3-4' tall, except for those of children, which are typically smaller.

Many feature the name of the deceased in a recessed panel with raised lettering, a style also found in other burial grounds in Marlborough. There are also several veterans headstones with the U.S. shield. Several marble headstones display Gothic and floral motifs. Notable examples of this style include the lot of Curtis (d. 1881, age 83), Mary Ann (d. 1885, age 79), and Mary J. Brigham (d. 1884, age 50?) with three elaborately carved marble headstones with Gothic designs enhanced by oak, wheat and floral motifs.(photo #5) Another is the lot of Edward Holyoke whose two wives died young and were remembered by headstones that were very personal and well-carved. (photo #4) Angeline (d. 1853, age 37) is commemorated by a marble headstone in the Gothic style with decorative borders, a raised image of a lily and text written on a scroll. Adeline (d.

1862 age 33) is commemorated by a marble headstone with recessed border with a recessed circle at the top in which there is a floral motif in raised relief. "H.W. Dresser, Lowell" signed the marble headstone of Caleb and Martha Brigham, with its distinctive backwards slanting writing. Similar stones have been found at other cemeteries in Marlborough but in other cases there is no visible signature. There are 19 low or flat granite markers, most of which are used in association with family monuments. Because they are small in size and low to the ground they are less visible than the older upright stones. There is also one tiny zinc headstone commemorating Zeruiah Hall Crosby (1802-1883). Captain William and Lydia Brigham (d. 1793) who died of smallpox and were refused burial in the town cemeteries were reportedly the first to be buried in this cemetery.

The earliest death date is that of Uriah Brigham (d. 1782) who may have been reinterred here or buried elsewhere and only memorialized here (he was a Revolutionary War veteran). There are several other burials that date to the 18" century and a few that date to the 20" but the vast majority of burials occurred during the 19" century. Burials which have occurred in the 20th century are generally descendants of those buried earlier. Epitaphs, which were particularly expressive during the 19" century, record the hopes and fears of life in Marlborough. The high rate of infant mortality was evident throughout the community. Five children of Eleazur and Catherine Howe died between 1792 and 1797, and another in 1811. The Holyoke family lost three children, the youngest of whom was Sarah Elizabeth (d.

1824, age 2) whose epitaph reads, "Little prattling playful girl, Why didst thou make so short a stay, To steal our hearts and then away!" The Gates family was particularly eloquent in their epitaphs. Catherine Gates (d. 1836, age 76) was commemorated with the words, "As a parent and sister she was revered and loved. As a neighbor she was kind and benevolent. And by all who knew her, her memory will be fondly cherished." Her husband Silas Gates (d. 1828, age 70) was "Active, enterprising and useful. He served his country and the public. And by his dying benefactions, reared a monument to his memory more lasting that sculptured marble!" (continued) NPS Form 10-900-a United States Department of the Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet OMB Approval No.

1024-0018 Brigham Cemetery Marlborough, Middlesex County, MA Section number ] Page 4 The cemetery also displays a tradition of tradition of military service. The 1934 map by City Engineer Francis Granger indicates that there are 19 Revolutionary War veterans buried here. They include: Captain Aaron Brigham, Captain William Brigham, Captain William Gates, Surgeon Daniel Brigham MD, Lieutenant Ephraim Barber, Sergeant John Loring, Corporal Thomas Rice, Abijah Berry, Daniel Brigham, Uriah Brigham, Joel Felton, Silas Gates, James Gleason, Elizir Holyoke, Stephen Hudson, Gershom Rice Jr., Peter Rice, George Williams, and Thomas Williams. The seven Civil War veterans buried here include: William F. Brigham, Josiah Gleason, J.G. Oaks, Austin W. Russell, Benjamin F. Russell, John M. Russell, and Lauramon H. Russell. The Russell family was hit particularly hard; Benjamin Russell (d.

1863, 26) died at Lincoln Hospital Washington, DC and John Russell (d. 1863, age 22) died at Gettysburg. The burying ground is generally well maintained, but like most municipal cemeteries, has suffered loss of gravestones over time. Marbles have particularly suffered with several toppled and broken and many eroded, which have been preserved in place. (end) Brigham Cemetery Name of Property 8. Statement of Significance

Statement of significance

Applicable National Register Criteria (Mark "x" in one or more boxes for the criteria qualifying the property for National Register listing) X A Property is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history. -B Property is associated with the lives of persons significant in our past. X C Property embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction or that represent the vork of a master, or possesses high artistic values, or that epresent a sianificant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction.

- D Property has yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in prehistory or history, Criteria Considerations (Mark "x" in all the boxes that apply) N/A Property is: ourposes A owned by religious institution or used for religious _ B removed from its original location _ C a birthplace or grave X D a cemetery _ E a reconstructed building, object, or structure _ F a commemorative property G less than 50 years of age or achieved significance withinthe past 50 years Middlesex County, Massachusetts County and State Areas of Significance (Enter categories from instructions) Art Community Planning and Development Social History Period of Significance 1793 - 1934 Significant Dates (see continuation sheet) Significant Person: (Complete if Criterion B is marked above) Cultural Affiliation Architects/Builders (see continuation sheet) Narrative Statement of Significance (Explain the significance of the property on one or more continuation sheets) See continuation sheets 9.

The rest of the file

Bibliography, boundary description, and the people who prepared and reviewed the nomination.

Major Bibliographic References (Cite the books, articles, and other sources used in preparing this form on one or more continuation sheets) See continuation sheets Previous documentation on file (NPS) - preliminary determination of individual listing (36 CFR 67) has been requested - previously listed in the National Register previously determined eligible by the National Register designated a National Historic Landmark recorded by Historic American Buildings Survey # Primary location of additional data State Historic Preservation Office Other State agency Federal Agency x Local Government - University Other Name of Repository: Library and Hist. Commission NPS Form 10-900-a United States Department of the Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet OMB Approval No.

1024-0018 Brigham Cemetery Marlborough, Middlesex County, MA Section number 8 Page 1 8. SIGNIFICANCE Brigham Cemetery, Marlborough, MA qualifies for listing on the National Register of Historic Places under Criteria A and C, with significance at the local level. The site may also have archaeological significance associated with unmarked graves and buried headstones. The period of significance extends from 1793 to 1934. The site possesses integrity of location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association. The cemetery qualifies for listing under Criterion A due to its strong association with the social history of Marlborough, including its origins as a burial place for those with smallpox, close family ties, and impacts of infant mortality.

It was one of several neighborhood burial grounds established in the late 18th century that came under municipal jurisdiction after 1855 and is one of nine municipal cemeteries in Marlborough. It contains the graves of 19 Revolutionary War veterans and seven Civil War veterans. Brigham Cemetery meets Criterion C as a small 19" century burial place that reflects the evolving design of cemeteries and funerary monuments in New England. It embodies the 19" century transition from burial ground to cemetery and is an early example of the use of family lots. Many of the headstones were carved by well- known carvers and the monumentation illustrates the transition from slate to marble to granite headstones, and displays a range of motifs and carving styles. The epitaphs expressively convey family relationships, religious beliefs, and attitudes towards death.

The cemetery meets Criteria Exception D because it has served continuously as a neighborhood burying ground in Marlborough from 1793 to the present, with most burials occurring in the 19t century. It includes the graves of over 260 residents of Marlborough and contains information that is not readily available elsewhere. The 1793 beginning date for the period of significance corresponds with the first documented burial, that of William and Lydia Brigham. The 1934 termination date reflects the last burial at this, that of Lizzie Morrison. Marlborough, located approximately 28 miles west of Boston and 16 miles east of Worcester, was incorporated as a town in 1660. The small frontier community developed slowly at first because of conflicts associated with King Philip's War. After 1676 Marlborough grew steadily, reaching a population of 1,287 by 1765.

Through the 18th century it remained primarily an agricultural community. The upland topography was particularly well-suited to raising cattle, grain and apples. Agriculture continued to be the major occupation in rural areas of town through the 19th century. However after 1830 Marlborough developed a thriving shoe industry, which transformed it into one of the manufacturing capitals of New England. The rapidly growing industry brought need for additional labor, which resulted in an influx of immigrants, initially Irish, followed by French Canadians, and later by Italians, Greeks and Eastern European Jews. The town's population grew from 2,500 in 1836 to 13,609 in 1900. By 1890 the increasingly complex infrastructure necessitated the reorganization of the government and Marlborough became a city.

In the 20" century, Marlborough has continued to grow, reaching a population of 31,800 by 1990, and has become a diversified residential, high-technology, and business city. (continued) NPS Form 10-900-a United States Department of the Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet OMB Approval No. 1024-0018 Brigham Cemetery Marlborough, Middlesex County, MA Section number 8 Page 2 Initially, Marlborough's funerary needs were served by two burial ground located near the center of town. Spring Hill Cemetery (1675) and Old Common Cemetery (1706) met the needs of those living near town. As the population grew more dispersed, residents of outlying areas established informal family and neighborhood burial grounds.

These included Wilson Cemetery (1764); Brigham Cemetery (1793); Chipman Cemetery (1813); Robin Hill Cemetery (1817); Weeks Cemetery (1837); and Maplewood Cemetery (1830s). After 1855 all the neighborhood cemeteries were transferred to municipal ownership and new burial areas were established at Chipman (the new section, Rocklawn Cemetery, is the name by which the area is currently known) and at Maplewood, which served as Marlborough's primary cemetery during the latter part of the 19 century. In 1956 Evergreen Cemetery was established adjacent to Wilson. It continues to serve as the city's primary burial ground today. There are also two large late 19" century Catholic cemeteries, St. Mary's and Immaculate Conception, which are located adjacent to Brigham. Marlborough historian Charles Hudson, writing in 1862, summarized the status of the town's cemeteries at that time and described each.

Cemeteries are becoming objects of attention in most of our towns; and their condition is being regarded as a sort of test of civilizations, in the best sense of that term. The gloom which has been spread over the resting-place of the departed, and the forbidding appearance of our churchyards, are giving place to a more rational feeling and a better taste. The increasing light of the Son of Righteousness has, in a good degree, dispelled the darkness of the tomb, and chased away the unearthly spectres, which were supposed to visit nightly the sepulchres of the dead. Christians of all denominations, are beginning to regard the burial-places of their friends, as peaceful shades to which they can profitably resort to muse in sweet melancholy upon the uncertainty of human life, and to call up anew the dear remembrance of departed friends.

Such views and feelings have created a disposition to beautify and adorn the ground where the dead are reposing... In the West Parish, some eighty rods south-easterly of the pond, is a cemetery which has been used forty or fifty years. The location upon the side hill is pleasant, but the absence of trees and shrubbery gives it a bleak appearance, and deprives it of that rural character so desirable in a cemetery. A little labor bestowed upon the grounds, and the planting of trees, would add greatly to its beauty. (Hudson, History of the Town of Marlborough, page 236-239) The two older municipal cemeteries (Spring Hill and Old Common) reflect their Colonial origins, with predominantly slate headstones laid out in irregular rows and a few later monuments.

Although they are referred to as cemeteries today, both could best be characterized as burying grounds, with no formal design and few embellishments. The four smaller neighborhood cemeteries (Brigham, Robin Hill, Weeks, and Wilson) reflect the transition from unadorned burial grounds to cemeteries, with spatial organization based on family lots rather than (continued) NPS Form 10-900-a United States Department of the Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet OMB Approval No. 1024-0018 Brigham Cemetery Marlborough, Middlesex County, MA Section number 8 Page 3 individual graves; stones that display more sentimental imagery and iconography; and, in some cases, embellishments such as roads and plantings.

Maplewood Cemetery began during the 1830s as a neighborhood cemetery but was greatly enlarged during the 1860s and displays the transition to the late 19" century style with smaller lots, machine-made monuments, and greater ethnic diversity. Evergreen Cemetery reflects late-20th century burial styles and ideas. Brigham Cemetery began in 1793 with the burial of William and Lydia Brigham, who had died of smallpox and were refused interment in the town's established burial grounds. There are several other recorded burials during the 18" century of members of Arnold, Brigham, and Howe families. The property remained in the Brigham family until Ephraim Brigham gave it to the newly established Unitarian Society in 1808. The cemetery was transferred to the town sometime after 1855 and has remained a municipal cemetery since that time. The last burial, that of Lizzie Morrison (d.

1934), a descendant of the Brighams, is commemorated by the same granite monument that marks the graves of William and Lydia Brigham. There is little documentation of the cemetery during its early years. The first burials probably occurred without much thought to the arrangement of the graves, with lots added over time as they were needed. Hudson's assessment in 1862 was that the cemetery was well-sited but could use more embellishment. In 1908 Franklin P. Rice published the inscriptions of several of Marlborough's early burial rounds, including Brigham. His thorough documentation provides a good summary of conditions at that time and records inscriptions, many of which are no longer legible. There were 260 recorded burials, represented by a slightly lower number of headstones and monuments, and just over 100 footstones, more than exist today.

Rice also identified the markings of a number of carvers which are not readily visible today. These include: Andrews and Wheeler; A. Cary, Boston; H.W. Dresser, Lowell; Kinney's, Worcester; B.H. McKinney; D. Nichols, Lowell; Nugent, Worcester; J. O'Connor; Pratt, Worcester; M. Shine; I.N. Stone; and G.F. Witherall, Worcester. The layout of the cemetery was documented by CityEngineer Francis Granger in 1934 (see attached map) and has changed little since that time. Municipal records indicate that there were few expenditures at Brigham other than for an occasional mowing. Brigham Cemetery was the fourth of the nine municipal burial grounds to be established in Marlborough and at 1.12 acre, it is one of the smallest. It retains a 19" century vernacular character in its spatial organization, topography, vegetation, circulation system and monumentation.

There have been no known additions or deletions of land. A few residents of the neighborhood have been buried here in the 20* century, primarily in existing family lots, but Brigham is not considered an active cemetery. Old Common Cemetery is already listed on the National Register as part of the Marlborough Center Historic District (NRDIS 08/19/1998). The six other municipal cemeteries established before 1900 are being nominated concurrently. There are no plans to nominate Evergreen Cemetery, which was established in 1956. (end) NPS Form 10-900-a United States Department of the Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet OMB Approval No. 1024-0018 Brigham Cemetery Marlborough, Middlesex County, MA Section number 9,10,12 Page 1 BIBLIOGRAPHY Publications Bigelow, Ella A. Historical Reminiscences of the Early Times in Marlborough, Massachusetts.

Marlborough: Times Publishing Co., 1910. Forbes, Anne McCarthy. Marlborough Survey of Historic, Architectural and Cultural Resources, Narrative History. Boston: Massachusetts Historical Commission, 1995. Hudson, Charles. History of the Town of Marlborough, Middlesex County, Massachusetts. Boston: Press of T.R. Marvin and Son, 1862. Marlborough Historical Society. Cemetery Records. Marlborough, Massachusetts. Annual Reports. 1865 - 2001. Rice, Franklin P. Marlborough, Massachusetts, Burial Ground Inscriptions: Old Common, Spring Hill and Brigham Cemeteries. Worcester, MA: published by the author, 1908. Maps Granger, J. Francis. Plan of Brigham Cemetery, Marlborough, Mass., Showing Location of Veterans Graves. City of Marlborough, 1934. Marlborough, Massachusetts. Assessor's Map 81. United States Geological Survey. Marlborough, Massachusetts, Topograhic Map, 1:25,000. 1983.

(end) Brigham Cemetery Name of Property 10. Geographical Data Acreage of Property 1.12_acre UTM References (place additional UTM references on a continuation sheet) 1.19 289120 4690680 Zone Easting Northing Zone 2. Zone Easting Northing 4. Zone Middlesex County, Massachusetts County and State 3. Easting Northing Easting Northing p See continuation sheet Verbal Boundary Description (Describe the boundaries of the property ona continuation sheet) Boundary Justification (Describe why the boundaries were selected on a continuation sheet) 11.

Form Prepared By name/title_Shary Page Berg, preservation consultant, with Betsy Friedberg, NR Director, MHC organization Massachusetts Historical Commission date July 2004 street & number220 Morrissey Boulevard telephone_617-727-8470 city or town_ Boston state _ MA zip code 02125 Additional Documentation Submit the following items with the completed form: Continuation Sheets Maps A USGS map (7.5 or 15 minute series) indicating the property's location. A sketch map for historic districts and properties having large acreage or numerous resources. Photographs Representative black and white photographs of the property.

Additional Items (check with the SHPO or FPO for any additional items) Property Owner (Complete this item at the request of the SHPO or FPO) name City of Marlborough street and number City Hall, 140 Main Street telephone 508-460-3715 city or town Marlborough state MA zip code_01752 NPS Form 10-900-a United States Department of the Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet OMB Approval No. 1024-0018 Brigham Cemetery Marlborough, Middlesex County, MA Section number 9, 10, 12 Page 2 10. GEOGRAPHICAL DATA Verbal Boundary Description Brigham Cemetery is located on the south side of West Main Street between Beach Street and Crescent Streets. It has only a narrow strip of direct access to West Main Street and then widens to a rectangular parcel. There are residences to the north and west of the cemetery.

It is surrounded on the south and east Boundary Justification The boundary encompasses a single parcel (assessors map 81, parcel 101) that includes the entire 1.12-acre cemetery. (end) LIST OF PHOTOGRAPHS NR Photo # 1 2 3 4 5 Location/Description View of entry gate from West Main Street looking towards cemetery. Date 2/2002 View southeast with Bigelow curbed lot and monument in the 2/2002 foreground. View northwest with Boyd curbed lot and monument in the foreground and numerous slate headstones. 2/2002 Marble headstones in Holyoke lot. 2/2002 Marble headstones in Curtis Brigham lot. 2/2002 Photo by Shary Berg Shary Berg Shary Berg Shary Berg Shary Berg dogator ST. MARY'S CEMETERY Goron - Maron SudAee Pra Rme Arnol RIea Auee Rice Fa BRIGHAM ÖEME MARLBOADUGHS MASS SHOWING LOTTHN VETERANS GRA Sepinett 1934 Map of Brigham Cemetery by City Engineer J. Francis Granger.

Brigham Cemetery is surrounded on three side by St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery. West Main Street is just off the map to the top. Crescent Street is off the map to the right. The rectangles indicate family lots, of which there were 71 in 1934. None have been added since that time. MHC # Photo# 1 2 Map# Brigham Cemetery Marlborough (Middlesex County), Massachusetts National Register District Data Sheet 2004 HistoricName Description/Materials Brigham Cemetery Entry gates Perimeter walls Brigham obelisk Witherbee obelisks (2) Hudson/Rice obelisk Russell pillar Iron, granite posts, bronze plaque Fieldstone Granite Marble Marble Marble Brigham/Morrison monument Granite Capt. George Williams headstone Slate Date 1793- ca. 1882 19" century 1872 1862 19" century ?

1813 Status C C C C 2C C C C C Type SI ST 20 N C 132 FAHEY SEE SHEET 190-A 0% 22,30 MTTTE 168-4 DDÊD *+ 409,300 ema Warg Park STREET 13,730 1200g TTOs COr'tes 3 133HS 335 48,237' "te kros,« Cometery 296 Brigham Cemetery 112 Acras 1q,12s BEACH e0r neras 31 CLOVER Saint Mory's Con .6 Acra 34 STREET 4100 16,919 STREET 908 m Concoation Cemetery 100 18.4 Acras D3e COMPLEO SY PHOTORRAMMETRIC METHOOI S.o PLi-i2e 9.85 Acros "POMO Brigham NR Marlborouah Cemeteriddeeset Nomina Có. MA PL'EASANT 18r0 1,170 190 STREET SEE SHEET 92 LIBERTY 10 ONA RINGO- 252 16,470 *009 254 ONAMOG FAÍRMOUN ADAMS. 100.% 12312 2 12.00009 24,0004 1281 :29. WAY 316.10 20,400 3313 AMERICAN 218 29 98 348735 219 27, 2038° 219-A 29,005 130 39 240-Al 19,034° 13.77 AM 300 Plero 82, Poroo Z) 100.o 221. RINGOLD ONAMOG COS 7es 1 239 EFH FES TO!E 222 29,279 200.10

162.17 15T 223 55,030 giet 1029724 2500 * 227 ST 232 16670 RUSSELL NE foi 14,091 =229 0 60 24,780 8.V8YM.

228 2ls denn MARI NITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIO JATIONAL PARK SERVIC ATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACE VALUATION RETURN SHEF REQUESTED ACTION: NOMINATION PROPERTY NAME: Brigham Cemetery MULTIPLE NAME : STATE & COUNTY: MASSACHUSETTS, Middlesex DATE RECEIVED: DATE OF 16TH DAY: DATE OF WEEKLY LIST: 7/27/04 REFERENCE NUMBER: 04000933 DATE OF PENDING LIST: DATE OF 45TH DAY: 9/09/04 REASONS FOR REVIEW: APPEAL:N REQUEST: N DATA PROBLEM: N LANDSCAPE: N LESS THAN 50 YEARS: PERIOD: PROGRAM UNAPPROVED: SAMPLE: N SLR DRAFT: N NATIONAL: COMMENT WAIVER: N LACCEPT RETURN ABSTRACT/ SUMMARY COMMENTS: REJECT 9/10/04 DATE Entenad in the Nar gister RECOM./ CRITERIA REVIEWER - DISCIPLINE TELEPHONE DATE - DOCUMENTATION see attached comments Y/N see attached SLR Y/N If a nomination is returned to the nominating authority, the nomination is no longer under consideration by the NPS.

Brgham Cemnetery, Maulbrnugh, Middlesex Counta, MA Photo d/ HicLet Brigham Cemetery, Marlbonough, Middlesck County, MA Phuto #2 Brigham Ceneten, Marlbmugh, Muddloser Counta, MA Photo #3 ADELINE C. vile of ERIELEH HOLLOKE died Fch. GN00 aged 2 vears Brgham Ceedery, Marlbororgh, Middlesex Co, MA Photo #4 Brigham Cernetery, Marlborough, Middleser Co, MA Photo #S HTN BOROVENE *° 1660. CITY OF MARLBOROUGH MAYOR DENNIS C. HUNT 140 Main Street Marlborough, Massachusetts 01752 Tel. (508)460-3770 Facsimile (508) 460-3698 TDD (508) 460-3610 ... May 7, 2004 Betsy Friedberg Massachusetts Historical Commission 220 Morrissey Boulevard Boston, MA 02125 Dear Ms. Friedberg, The City of Marlborough participated in the Cemetery Initiative that the Department of Environmental Management conducted.

Because of that project, the City next pursued a grant to have these cemeteries listed in the National Register. I have received notice that at its June 9, 2004 meeting, the Massachusetts Historical Commission will be reviewing the City of Marlborough's Request to have seven (7) historic cemeteries included in the National Register Listing. I would like to express my support for this project. Cemeteries have always served as one of the community's most valuable resources. It would seem in this day and age that cemeteries have lost much of their significance. But further exploration would dispute that.

From the people who come from all over the country to research their family trees, realizing that their ancestors settled this community and helped it to grow and prosper and while some stayed and continued their role in this community, others moved on to settle throughout the rest of the country; to the schoolchildren who learn a respect and awareness of history from their tours and research in these cemeteries; to the veterans who visit frequently to pay their respects to the country's heroes; to the neighborhood residents and the community at large who walk through the cemeteries pausing to reflect at various headstones, sometimes cleaning around a site, but taking the few moments to reflect on the peace and stillness that gives them a brief respite from the hustle and stress of their lives, these cemeteries have an impact.

The City of Marlborough has begun a pro-active role in the preservation of its cultural and historical assets through acquiring open space parcels and developing preservation and maintenance plans for its resources. Several Boy Scouts have done or will be doing a status inventory of individual cemeteries for their Eagle Scout projects. Each Boy Scout chooses a cemetery and they inventory each headstone - inscriptions, condition of stone, composition of stone - and also make general notes on the cemetery grounds. Since time can have such a devastating effect on the headstones, the City and its Cemetery Division will be able to take this inventory and use it to address the most urgent needs. The cemeteries in Marlborough reach out to many people - those who come to trace their roots and learn about their families, the schoolchildren, the veterans and the community at large.

They provide a real sense of history in Marlborough. Betsy Friedberg May 7, 2004 Page 2 The City of Marlborough takes great pride in its cemeteries and the history reflected there. Listing these cemeteries is another way of expressing our pride while providing a part that is often required for grants that we might seek to help in the special maintenance and repairs at the cemeteries. I thank you for this opportunity and hope that you will approve this project. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. Sincerely yours, Jenm cHunt Dennis ( Mayor ATL BOROTCE 1660. CITY OF MARLBOROUGH Marlborough, Massachusetts 01752 HISTORICAL COMMISSION May 11, 2004 Betsy Friedberg Massachusetts Historical Commission 220 Morrissey Boulevard Boston, MA 02125 Dear Ms.

Friedberg, We in Marlborough are fortunate to have our historic cemeteries and burial grounds in a wonderful state of preservation. Some of the stones date from the late 1600s and early 1700s and look as if they had been carved recently. The grave markers bear the names of many of our founding fathers and veterans of the Revolutionary, Civil and all other wars. They are a written history of this community. Those citizens who visit our historic burial grounds for the first time are invariably impressed. It is fun to take groups through them and point out who, what, where and why they are important. You can see the various motifs of the carvers. We who appreciate our history are very proud of these cemeteries. We who take the time to honor our fallen veterans are pleased that our City government throughout our history has cared for these hallowed grounds.

I fully support the efforts to have our historic cemeteries placed on the National Register. This will help many others to be grateful for their existence. Sincerely yours, Ya Gary Brown Chairman TBORO RECEIVED NN 0S 2004 NASS HIST. COMM Director 1660 CITY OF MARLBOROUGH PLANNING DEPARTMENT 140 Main Street Marlborough, Massachusetts 01752 Tel (508) 460-3799 Facsimile (508) 460-3698 TDD (508) 460-3610 May 13, 2004 Betsy Friedberg Massachusetts Historical Commission 220 Morrissey Boulevard Boston, Massachusetts 02125 Dear Ms. Friedberg: I wish to convey my strong support for the nomination of seven historic cemeteries in the City of Marlborough to the National Register of Historic Places. The elevation of these cemeteries to the Register will assist in implementing the city's planning objectives.

One of the action items in the 2002 Marlborough Master Plan is to advance the preservation of the city's historic cemeteries through the development of preservation plans and the pursuing of National Register designation. The City was awarded a technical assistance grant from the Department of Environmental Management to develop a framework for the preservation of these sites, and this initiative has assisted in guiding the City's maintenance of these cemeteries. Clearly, the preservation of Marlborough's historic cemeteries will advance other goals of the master plan, including the preservation of the community's character and its quality of life. The nomination of these sites to the National Register will advance the preservation of these important historic resources. PadHima Director of/Planning and Community Development NR file Muitborongh Historical Socicty, Inc. P.O.

Box 513 Marlborough, Massachusetts 01752-0513 May 20, 2004 Peter Rice Homestead - 377 Elm Street LECEIVED NX 25 2004 MASS. HIST. COMMV Betsy Friedberg Massachusetts Hictorical Commission 220 Morrisey Boulevard Boston, MA 02125 Dear Ms. Friedberg: On behalf of the Marlborough Historical Society I would like to express my support for the listing on the National Register of Historic Places the seven historically significant cemeteries in Marlborough, Massachusetts. Märlborough being among this nation's earliest incorporated townships (1660), its rich history was built by the very men and women who lay to rest in our honored cemeteries. The recognition they deserve warrants such a listing in our National Registry. Not only for the expressed purpose of recognition of the cemeteries and those who are buried there, however, do I support such an effort.

Rather, I feel that a listing on the National Register of Historic Places fosters within a given town or city a greater awareness of and appreciation for other historic preservation efforts and projects. To me, it is an often-needed catalyst to better, more thoughtful decision making. 1 thank you in advance for your consideration of this matter. Sincerely, Ellila Richard Wilcox Curator C: Gary Brown, C'hairman, Marlborough Historical Commission TRI.BOROL TOW 1660 + A CITY OF MARLBOROUGH Department of Public Works Office of the Commissioner 135 Neil Street Marlborough, Massachusetts 01752 (508) 624-6910 Ext. 7200 Facsimile (508) 624-7699 TDD (508) 460-3610 May 25, 2004 Betsy Friedberg Massachusetts Historical Commission 220 Morrissey Boulevard Boston, MA 02125 Dear Ms.

Friedberg, I am pleased to offer my support to the City of Marlborough request to have its 7 cemeteries listed on the National Register. As the Commissioner of the Department of Public Works, it is my responsibility to see that these historic resources are properly maintained. With the ever-increasing demands on municipal budgets, it is a challenge to meet this standard with the limited funds we are annually given to do so. I am extremely proud of the fact that these cemeteries are in remarkable condition in spite of our limited maintenance resources and we hope to continue meeting our charge in that regard. Listing in the National Register symbolizes the City of Marlborough's commitment to its historic resources. As part of this commitment the City continually researches ways to gain additional funding for special projects for these cemeteries.

As an example, funds from the grant used to prepare this application, also allowed us to prepare mini-preservation and maintenance plans for the cemeteries. The purpose of these plans is to provide efficient cost-effective guidance to the community for the care of its historic cemeteries. There are few greater opportunities for reflection than a walk through an historic burial ground as you ponder the names, dates and inscriptions on the stones and what life was like when these people lived in our community. Betsy Friedberg Massachusetts Historical Commission May 25, 2004 Page 2 As the custodian of these sites, I have a great responsibility to not only the current residents but also to those people who lived here helping our community grow and prosper and are now buried in our cemeteries.

What better way to show honor and respect than to have these cemeteries listed on the National Register I appreciate this opportunity to offer my support to this request. DLIIZA ISND ACBAT The Commonwealth of Massachusetts William Francis Galvin, Secretary of the Commonwealth Massachusetts Historical Commission July 22, 2004 Ms. Carol Shull National Register of Historic Places Department of the Interior National Park Service 1201 Eye Street, NW 8th floor Washington, DC 20005 Dear Ms. Shull: Enclosed please find the following nomination form: Brigham Cemetery, Marlborough (Middlesex), MA The nomination has been voted eligible by the State Review Board and has been signed by the State Historic Preservation Officer. The owners of the property were notified of pending State Review Board consideration 30 to 45 days before the meeting and were afforded the opportunity to comment.

Five letters of support have been received. Sincerely, Betey Fredbey National Register Director Massachusetts Historical Commission enclosure CC: Shary Page Berg, consultant Gary Brown, Lynn Faust, Marlborough Historical Commissior Dennis Hunt, Mayor, City of Marlborougt Alfred Lima, Marlborough Planning Director 220 Morrissey Boulevard, Boston, Massachusetts 02125 (617) 727-8470 - Fax: (617) 727-5128 www.state.ma.us/sec/mhc