1841 Bunker Hill Monument Commemorative Plate
Small plate, 3.5 inches in diameter, commemorating the Bunker Hill Monument. An image of the obelisk monument is visible at the center of the plate.
This historical plate features the inscription: “CORNERSTONE LAID BY LAFAYETTE, JUNE 17, 1825. FINISHED BY THE LADIES, 1841.” The inner ring reads: “BUNKER HILL BATTLE FOUGHT JUNE 17, 1775,” with the central inscription: “FROM THE FAIR TO THE BRAVE.” Notably, the ‘E’ in ‘JUNE’ is incomplete, resembling a ‘T.’
Museum’s collections. The plate was initially presented to the Fletcher Library by Mrs. Lydia Kelly Walkden (1848-1908) at an unknown date. It was part of a larger donation by the library in the 1980s to help build the Museum’s collections, which opened to the public in 1985. Born in Danvers, Lydia was a prominent Westford resident, being a part of organizations such as the Congregational Church and the Westford Grange.
From the collection
W.1983.31.27
Additional Notes
The Bunker Hill Monument commemorates the battle fought on June 17, 1775, where Colonial Colonel William Prescott led 1,200 troops against the British occupying Boston. Although the Colonials lost, suffering around 450 casualties compared to over 1,000 for the British, the battle proved their resolve against a trained army.
The Marquis de Lafayette (and John Abbot of Westford) laid the cornerstone during his 14-month tour of America. However, financial difficulties soon led to the sale of some property, and locals began to consider the unfinished monument an eyesore.
Regarding the “LADIES” who completed the monument, as embossed on the cup plate, one notable woman was Sarah Josepha Hale, a poet and author. She successfully raised approximately $30,000.00 for the monument’s completion.
Most Worshipful JOHN ABBOT (1777-1853)
On June 17, 1825, a significant milestone in history was achieved when John Abbot of Westford, the Grand Master of the Masons of Massachusetts, proudly led the ceremony to lay the cornerstone of the remarkable Bunker Hill Monument. This momentous occasion was further enriched by the presence of the esteemed Marquis de Lafayette, enhancing the celebration with his participation.
During his second term, the Most Worshipful Abbot played a pivotal role in this historic event. Importantly, the construction of the Bunker Hill Monument was not solely a Masonic endeavor; it was championed by the Bunker Hill Monument Association, founded in 1823 by a dedicated group of five visionaries: William Tudor, Daniel Webster, Edward Everett, Thomas H. Perkins, and Dr. John Collins Warren, who was the nephew of the revered M.W. General Joseph Warren.
As enthusiasm grew, a dedicated group of 26 men came together to sign a petition, which was presented to the State Legislature on May 28, 1823. This initiative gained momentum with the Governor’s approval on June 7, 1823. Subsequently, the President and Directors of the Association extended a heartfelt invitation to the Grand Master of Masons to lay the cornerstone of the obelisk on that historic day, welcoming Lodges from the jurisdiction and neighboring New England states, as well as other affiliated bodies, to join in this celebration. It was truly a remarkable gathering that showcased unity and dedication to honoring our shared history!
