Nomination for Wilson Cemetery

From the form

The catalogue entry the section above was filed under.

958 NPS Form 10-900 (Rev. 10-90) United States Department of the Interior National Park Service RLOMBNO21840018 M. 2 2004 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 the information requested. If any item does not apply 5to the property being documented enter "N/A" for "not applicable". For functions, architectural classification, materials, and areas of significance, enter only categories and subcategories from the instructions. Place additional entries and narrative terms on continuation sheets (NPS Form 10-900a).

Use a typewriter, word processor, or computer, to complete all items. 1. Name of Property historic name Wilson Cemetery other names/site number 2. Location street & number Wilson Street N/A not for publication city or town _ Marlborough N/A _vicinity state Massachusetts _code_MAcountyMiddlesex _code _017 zip code_01752 3. State/Federal Agency Certification As the designated authority under the NationalHistoric Preservation Act of 1986, as amended,I hereby certify that this pomination request for determination of eligibility meets the documentation standards for registering properties in 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 meets [ does not meet the National Register Criteria. I recommend that this property be considered significant l nationally statewidev locally.

((See continuation sheet for additional comments.) Signature of certifying official/Title hilon dtcara H. Metz, Executive birector nationalkegistu Mrestr 712/04 Massachusetts Historical Commission, State Historic Preservation Officel 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 Date Ea I Balt a1do4 I, hereby certify that this property is: entered in the National Reaister - 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): Wilson Cemetery Name of Property 3.

Classification Ownership of Property -private X public-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 ofa multiple propertylisting) 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 2 6 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 1.

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 Wilson Cemetery Marlborough, Middlesex County, MA Section number ] Page 1 7. NARRATIVE DESCRIPTION Wilson Cemetery is a small municipal burial ground that retains strong historical associations and a diverse collection of burial markers associated with Marlborough residents for nearly 240 years.

There are 14 family monuments, approximately 202 headstones, and one tomb recording burials that occurred between 1764 and 2000, with most dating to the 19t century. It is likely that there are also additional unmarked graves. The cemetery lies about two miles east of Marlborough Center and is surrounded on the south and east by Evergreen Cemetery, a large 20" century burial ground that now serves as the primary active cemetery for the community. The Wilson Road area, formerly known as the Farms, is now occupied primarily by late 20" century residences. A busy commercial district lies less than ½ mile to the south. Wilson Cemetery is a trapezoidal 1.22-acre site located on the east side of Wilson Street just north of Boston Post Road (US Route 20). Along the western (street) frontage there is a 30" tall mortared boulder wall that extends in front of Evergreen Cemetery as well.

The portion in front of Wilson is broken at the center with a wide vehicular entrance flanked on either side by narrower pedestrian entrances. However this entrance is chained and rarely used, as most visitors approach Wilson Cemetery from Evergreen Cemetery. There is also a fieldstone wall, consistent with the earlier agricultural use of the area, along the north and northeast portions of the cemetery. The large aluminum cemetery maintenance building located in Evergreen Cemetery off the northeast corner of Wilson Cemetery presents an incongruous juxtaposition with the historic site. The overhead power lines that run through the middle of the cemetery are also an intrusion. There are no plantings in the central portion of the cemetery.

However, the wooded northern edge, consisting mostly of white pines and other second growth vegetation, provides a backdrop for the cemetery and a buffer against adjacent modern land uses. Wilson Cemetery is screened on the south and southeast by a row of evenly- space evergreens along the boundary between the two cemeteries. These have been limbed up to about 8', creating an expansive view underneath. The central portion of the cemetery is relatively level, with a rise in the wooded northern section. The cemetery is divided by the central east/west pathway into two distinct sections. The northern portion includes the older graves which are arranged in rough north/south rows with the woods and Eames tomb forming the northern edge. The southern section, which developed later, is more orderly with lots laid out in neatly arranged rows and a secondary path running parallel to the main path.

The definition of the lots in the southern section is enhanced by the fact that many are slightly raised above the surrounding area, creating a grid that is easy to read in the landscape. Some lots also have granite corner posts. All headstones and monuments in both sections face west towards Wilson Street. The family monuments, headstones and footstones display an unusually wide range of funerary taste for a small cemetery, illustrating styles that were popular from the late-18** century through the late 20t century and (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 Wilson Cemetery Marlborough, Middlesex County, MA Section number 7 Page 2 demonstrating evolving ideas of funerary art.

There are 14 family monuments, all are granite and date to the late 19"h/early 20th 'century. The two largest are the 8' tapered square columns located in the Hager and Parmenter lots. There are several smaller upright monuments and the rest are rectangular granite blocks. Some are fairly standard designs, while others such as the Seely monument with its scroll and lily design, are more imaginative. Most of the family monuments are used in association with small granite markers that denote the graves of individual family members. The one tomb at Wilson Cemetery, that of Revolutionary war veteran Robert Eames (1738-1821), is built into the hillside at the northern edge of the cemetery. It has an uncoursed stone face and a bricked up doorway and is marked by a marble plaque. There are 42 slate headstones that illustrate a range of styles and types.

Several small late 18" century slates mark the earliest burials in the cemetery. These display the winged head motif, sometimes used in association with foliate designs along the borders. The early slates include the headstones of Dorothy How (d. 1764 of smallpox, age 35), John How (d. 1760s?), Thomas "Biglo" (Bigelow, d. 1770), and Charles Rice (d. 1781, 5 months). Other early slates include those of Stephen Morse (d. 1791) and two children of the Morse family. The stones for the children are small and simple while that for their father is 4' tall and displays a winged head. Several other early stones and stone fragments are no longer legible. The majority of the slate headstones at Wilson Cemetery date to the early to mid 19* century and display the willow and urn motif.

Early depictions of this motif are fairly simple, while later versions are more elaborately carved with architectural designs containing columns and entablatures and carefully inscribed lettering. Almost all of these have a rounded tympanum on a shouldered main block. Many of the slates include sentimental inscriptions. Several include visible signatures. The headstone of Mary Howe (d. 1848) is signed "J.O.C." and at least two of the Wilson slates, those of William Wilson (d. 1833, age 60) and Charles Freeman (d. 1833, age 13), are signed "W.W.W." Nearly half of the slate headstones also have footstones that have been relocated adjacent to the headstone to facilitate maintenance. The 86 marble headstones display a range of 19"h century styles.

Most are 3-4' tall, except for those of children, which are typically smaller, and nearly all are fairly simple in shape, typically flat, with shallow-peaked tops or slightly rounded. Many feature the name of the deceased in a recessed panel with raised lettering, a style also found in other burial grounds in Marlborough. Several display Gothic motifs, sometimes in association with ferns and floral patterns, while others depict an index finger pointing towards heaven. The headstone of Joseph Morse (1835-1850) was carved by "A. Cary, Boston." The adjacent stone of Elizabeth Morse (1828-1851), one of the most skillfully carved in this cemetery, depicts a portrait of a woman with an urn. It is stylistically similar to Joseph's stone but there is no signature evident. A 1971-72 inventory indicated that the headstone of Leonard Wilson (d. 1846) is also signed "A.

Cary." There are also 74 flat or low granite headstones, often used with family monuments, most of which are associated with 20h century burials. Because they are small in size and low to the ground they are less visible than the older upright stones. (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 Wilson Cemetery Marlborough, Middlesex County, MA Section number 7 . Page 3 The cemetery also displays a tradition of military service. Robert Eames (1738-1821), the only Revolutionary War veteran buried here, is interred in the mound tomb at the northern edge of the cemetery. Harvey Lucas (d. 1894) served in the Civil War. Hugh Craddock (1925-1963) served in World War II.

Like Marlborough's other small neighborhood cemeteries, Wilson reveals much about the social history of the community. Dorothy How, the first documented burial, died of smallpox, so it is possible that this cemetery, like Brigham Cemetery in the western part of Marlborough, may have begun as a burial place for those who were refused interment in the town's older burial grounds. Infant and child mortality is another common theme. The tiny graves for infants such as "little Flossie" Fay (d. 1873), Lillian Fay (d. 1870, age four months) and Pamela Ann Hayden (d. 1826, 18 days old) are particularly poignant. On the other hand, many who lived past infancy survived well into old age, such as Lois Morse who was 98 when she died in 1881. Family ties are another strong theme. Several families have multiple lots in the cemetery while others have buried family members here for generations.

The Morse lot contains the graves of family members buried between 1791 and 1949 and displays a remarkable variety of headstones. The burying ground is generally well maintained, but like most municipal cemeteries, has suffered loss and deterioration of gravestones over time. The slate headstones are generally in good condition, although some exhibit biological growth. The marble headstones are generally less well-preserved; many are weathering badly, some have been toppled or broken and there is at least one stone that is missing. Wilson Cemetery is generally not considered an active cemetery except for burials in existing family lots. The most recent interment is that of Carolina M. Keyes (d. 2000). (end) Wilson 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 work of a master, or possesses high artistic values, or that represent a significant 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: A owned by religious institution or used for religious purposes -B removed from its original location Cbrthplace or grave X D a cemetery E a reconstructed building, object, or structure _ F a commemorative property G less than 50years of age or achieved significance within the 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 1764 -1954 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 Wilson Cemetery Marlborough, Middlesex County, MA Section number 8 Page 1 8. SIGNIFICANCE Wilson Cemetery 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 documented period of significance extends from 1764 to 1954, although there may be earlier graves. 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 history of Marlborough, particularly the 19th century "Farms" neighborhood in the eastern part of the community.

It is was one of several neighborhood burial grounds established in the late 18 century that came under municipal jurisdiction after 1855 and is one of nine municipal cemeteries in Marlborough. It contains the graves of one Revolutionary War veteran, one Civil War veteran, and one World War II veteran. The cemetery also documents the 19" century social structure of the community, including close family ties, the high rate of infant mortality, and the influx of immigrants in the late 19 century, which is evident in the names of the Scandinavian families buried here. Wilson Cemetery meets Criterion C as a small burial ground active over more than two centuries 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.

The monumentation illustrates the transition from slate to marble to granite headstones, and displays a range of motifs and carving styles. There are also several signed stones here, including at least one well-carved stone by "A. Cary, Boston." 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 1764 to the present, with most burials occurring in the 19" century. It includes the graves of over 100 residents of Marlborough and contains information that is not readily available elsewhere. The 1764 beginning date for the period of significance corresponds with the first documented burial, that of Dorothy How.

The 1954 termination date reflects National Register policy that properties with ongoing significance use a 50- year cut-off date unless events of unusual significance have occurred within the past 50 years. 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 19 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. (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 Wilson Cemetery Marlborough, Middlesex County, MA Section number 8 Page 2 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. 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). 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, located adjacent to Brigham Cemetery. 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 o 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... Another yard in the south-easterly part of town, near the house of Stephen Morse, Esq., contains at the present time about two acres. It was first used as a burial place about 1700, and contains several hundred graves. The people in that part of the town are beginning to ornament it with trees, so that it may become a space of pleasant resort. (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 (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 Wilson Cemetery Marlborough, Middlesex County, MA Section number 8 Page 3 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 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. Wilson Cemetery, named for the Wilson family who owned the farm nearby, began as a small neighborhood burial ground in the "Farms" section of town. Its early history is not well-documented. It is likely that the first burials occurred without much thought to the arrangement of the graves and that lots were added over time as they were needed. The layout of the cemetery was documented by City Engineer Francis Granger in 1934 (see attached map) and has changed little since that time.

Municipal records indicate that there were few expenditures at Wilson other than for an occasional mowing. Wilson Cemetery was the third of the nine municipal burial grounds to be established in Marlborough and at.1.22 acre, it is one of the smallest of Marlborough's municipal cemeteries, and one of the simplest in design. The northern section reflects the 18" century development of the cemetery while the more ordered southern section reflects the 19* century evolution. Wilson Cemetery retains its 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 since the 1950s, primarily in existing family lots, but Wilson is not generally 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 Wilson Cemetery Marlborough, Middlesex County, MA Section number 9.,10,12 Page 1 9. 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 for the Weeks, Wilson and Robin Hill Cemeteries." Unpublished manuscript, 1971-1972. Marlborough, Massachusetts. Annual Reports. 1865 - 2001. Maps Granger, J. Francis. Plan of Wilson Cemetery, Marlborough, Mass., Showing Location of Veterans Graves. City of Marlborough, 1934. Marlborough, Massachusetts. Assessor's Map 60. United State Geological Survey. Marlborough, Massachusetts, Topograhic Map, 1:25,000. 1983. (end) Wilson Cemetery Name of Property 10. Geographical Data Acreage of Property 1.22- acre UTM References (place additional UTM references on a continuation sheet) 1. 19 293420 4619700 Zone Easting Northing Middlesex County, Massachusetts County and State 2. 19 Zone Easting Northing 3. 19 Zone 4.

19 Zone Easting Northing Easting Northing p See continuation sheet Verbal Boundary Description (Describe the boundaries of the property on a 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 & number 220 Morrissey Boulevard telephone617-727-8470 city or town Boston state MA zip code 02125 Additional Documentation Submit the following items with the completed form: Continuation Sheets 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 Wilson Cemetery Marlborough, Middlesex County, MA Section number 9.,10,12 . Page 2 10. GEOGRAPHICAL DATA Verbal Boundary Description Wilson Cemetery is a rectangular parcel on the east side of Wilson Street a short distance north of Boston Post Road. It is surrounded on the south and east by Evergreen Cemetery.

Boundary Justification The boundary encompasses a single parcel (assessors map 60, parcel 35) that includes the entire 1.22-acre cemetery established in the late 18"h century. (end) 12. LIST OF PHOTOGRAPHS NR Photo # Location/Description 2 3 4 View of cemetery looking southeast from Wilson Street. Wilson Cemetery is in the foreground with Evergreen cemetery beyond. View looking northeast with Wilson family lot in the foreground and Eames tomb behind. View looking southeast with Thomas Bigelow (Biglo) headstone in the foreground.

View looking east along southern section of cemetery showing some of the 19" century lots with Selly monument in foreground Date 2/2002 Photo by Shary Berg 2/2002 2/2002 2/2002 Shary Berg Shary Berg Shary Berg MHC# Photo# Map# Wilson Cemetery Marlborough (Middlesex County), Massachusetts National Register District Data Sheet 2004 HistoricName Description/Materials Wilson Cemetery Front Wall Robert Eames tomb Hager monument Parmenter monument Morse headstone (Cary carver) Mortared fieldstone Mound tomb with stone front Granite Granite Marble Date 1764 20" C. 1821 19t C. 19" C. 1850 Status SI ST ST Type C C C C C C N C 1934 Map of Wilson Cemetery by City Engineer J. Francis Granger. The northern (left) side of the cemetery, which is laid out more randomly, is the oldest. The later southern (right) side is more orderly.

d, leu WILSON CEMETER SHOWING, VETERANS GRAVE Arattaany Wer Cond bei (eero UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR NATIONAL PARK SERVICE NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES EVALUATION/RETURN SHEET REQUESTED ACTION: NOMINATION PROPERTY Wilson Cemetery NAME : MULTIPLE NAME : STATE & COUNTY: MASSACHUSETTS, Middlesex DATE RECEIVED: DATE OF 16TH DAY: DATE OF WEEKLY LIST: 7/27/04 9/10/04 REFERENCE NUMBER: 04000958 DATE OF PENDING LIST: 8/26/04 DATE OF 45TH DAY: 9/09/04 REASONS FOR REVIEW: APPEAL: N DATA PROBLEM: N LANDSCAPE: N LESS THAN 50 YEARS: OTHER : N PDIL: N PERIOD: N PROGRAM UNAPPROVED: REQUEST: N SAMPLE: N SLR DRAFT: N NATIONAL: COMMENT WAIVER: N VACCEPT RETURN REJECT 9/10/04 ABSTRACT/ SUMMARY COMMENTS : N N N Entered in the National Begister 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.

NPS Form 10-900-a (8-86) United States Department of the Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet Section number 10 Page 1 RECEIVED 2280 OCT 28 2011 NAT. REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES NATIONAL PARK SERVICE 04000958 OMB Approval No. 1024-0018 Wilson Cemetery Marlborough (Middlesex) MA The coordinates originally provided for Wilson Cemetery were 19 293420 4619700. The correct location is 45 miles due North ofthis point at 19 293420 4691700 (North American Datum 1927).

Corrected March 2009 UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR NATIONAL PARK SERVICE NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES EVALUATION/RETURN SHEET REQUESTED ACTION: ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTATION PROPERTY Wilson Cemetery NAME : MULTIPLE NAME : STATE & COUNTY: MASSACHUSETTS, Middlesex DATE RECEIVED: DATE OF 16TH DAY: DATE OF WEEKLY LIST: 10/28/11 DATE OF PENDING LIST: DATE OF 45TH DAY: 12/13/11 REFERENCE NUMBER: 04000958 REASONS FOR REVIEW: APPEAL: N DATA PROBLEM: N LANDSCAPE: N LESS THAN 50 YEARS: OTHER: N PDIL: N PERIOD: N PROGRAM UNAPPROVED: REQUEST: N SAMPLE: N SLR DRAFT: N NATIONAL: COMMENT WAIVER: N ACCEPT RETURN REJECT DATE ABSTRACT/SUMMARY COMMENTS: N N Additional Documentation Approved wwaglecept REVIEWER TELEPHONE DISCIPLINE DATE Nbisl 12.9.1/ 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.

RECEIVED 2280 ETITPLA JIKe LBETAD OCT 28 2011 NAT. REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES The Commonwealth of Massachtuse NSTONAL PARK SERVICE William Francis Galvin, Secretary of the Commonwealth Massachusetts Historical Commission October 20,2011 Mr. J. Paul Loether National Register of Historic Places Department of the Interior National Park Service 1201 Eye Street, NW gt floor Washington, DC 20005 Dear Mr. Loether: Re: Additional Documentation (Technical corrections of UTMs) In the process of mapping National Register nominations for our GIS database, we have identified errors in UTM coordinates for 23 properties. The errors vary from a few hundred feet to hundreds of miles, often due to transposition of numbers. As recommended by Edson Beall, we are enclosing a continuation sheet for each of the nominations. Please let me know if you need more information in order to correct your records.

Sincerely, Betay tredleg Betsy Friedberg National Register Director Massachusetts Historical Commission Enclosures 220 Morrissey Boulevard, Boston, Massachusetts 02125 (617) 727-8470 - Fax: (617) 727-5128 www.state.ma.us/sec/mhc Wilson Cemetery, Marlbonugn, Middlesex Co, MA Wilson Cerneter, Marlbnduga, Middlesex Co, MA Ploto #2 Wilsun Cemnetery, Manlborough, Middlesex Oo, MA Photo #3 SELT BENJ. F. SEELY 1855-1318 BEULAH N. HIS WIFE 1858-1323 HARRY V.1880-1320 JULIA M.SESLY LANE 1878 - 1332 Witsan Cemetey, Marloauah, Middlesex Co, MA Pluto "4 REGEIMED : 2280 LACIDAM JUL 2 y 2004 REGISTEI The Commonwealth of Massachusetts TLIOME PA William Francis Galvin, Secretary of the Commonwealth Massachusetts Historical Commission igFegES July 23, 2004 Ms.

Carol Shull National Register of Historic Places Department of the Interior National Park Service 1201 Eye Street, NW 8tfloor Washington, DC 20005 Dear Ms. Shull: Enclosed please find the following nomination form: Wilson 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, Betry Friedherg Betsy Friedberg National Register Director Massachusetts Historical Commission enclosure CC: Shary Page Berg, consultant Gary Brown, Lynn Faust, Marlborough Historical Commission Dennis Hunt, Mayor, City of Marlborough Alfred Lima, Marlborough Planning Director 220 Morrissey Boulevard, Boston, Massachusetts 02125 (617) 727-8470 - Fax: (617) 727-5128 www.state.ma.us/sec/mhc ALNUGROTEE® 1660. CATT 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 comefrom all over the country toresearchtheir 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, Denmi Huat Dennis Temio Mayor AALLIOROTEE 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, Gary Brown Chairman HAANTOROTCE RECEIVED JUN 08 2004 MAADPLIMA HIST. COMN 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. Adrima Director ofPlanning and Community Development Ne file Murorough Historical Society, Inc. P.O.

Box 513 Marlborough, Massachusetts 01752-0513 May 20, 2004 Peter Rice Homestead - 377 Elm Street RECEIVED NAY 25 2004 MASS. HIST. COMM Betsy Friedberg Massachusetts Historical 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. Marlborough 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 I thank you in advance for your consideration of this matter. Sincerely, Pllila Richard Wilcox Curator C: Gary Brown, Chairman, Marlborough Historical Commission TATKI POROUCH 1060 A CIT 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. incerely yours. Ronald LaFreniere Commissioner