Our recognition of the 250th anniversary of America is two-pronged. First, we have the exhibit at the Rochester Historical Museum at 355 County Rd. This exhibit opened on July 25. It gives the history of Rochester’s response to specific events leading up to and during the Revolution. It includes first-person accounts.
The exhibit also includes items that would belong to a Revolutionary War soldier and others, which would be used in a soldier’s home during the same period. This exhibit will be open at times announced in the paper until after Labor Day, when we will come up with a weekend schedule. We’re always happy to open, and you may arrange a visit by calling 617-750-2818 or emailing eshbach2@aol.com.
The second prong is our wall of Revolutionary War veterans. This is a collaboration between the Rochester Historical Commission and the Historical Society. It is a work in progress with frequent additions being made. We are always looking for help with this. Currently, I’m looking for the grave of Asa Pease, who is in the Central Cemetery in North Rochester. I also need to know where that might be.
While both endeavors come under the heading of Rochester, the events and veterans now located throughout the Tri-Town were in Rochester when they occurred, as today’s Marion and Mattapoisett were both part of Rochester until the 1850s. So, all of this is a shared history.
I want to thank and give credit to the Rochester Cultural Council, the Marion Cultural Council and the Mattapoisett Cultural Council for their support. All three are local councils supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council. Without their assistance, it would be much harder to keep our area’s rich history alive.