CLARK’S ISLAND.
Visited as it is daily by tourists from all parts of the world, it is fitting that this consecrated ground should be well cared for and that its surroundings should be somewhat in keeping with its historic character. By the will of J. Henry Stickney of Baltimore, late vice-president of the Pilgrim Society, $10,000 was bequeathed for improvements on this ground. It had been suggested that the legacy be used in removing some, at least, of the unsightly buildings which skirt the foot of the hill on the easterly side, and in the erection of an ornamental gateway at the Town Square entrance.
CHURCH OF THE FIRST PARISH.
There are several ways of approaching Burial Hill, but the main entrance is at Town Square. As we pass through the gateway the new First Church, now in process of building (1896), looms up on our left. It is of gray stone, in the Norman type of architecture, and its severity of style is suggestive of the rugged lives of the Fathers. In the vestibule of the square central tower will be placed tablets of a historical character. This church is the oldest religious organization in the country. In an unbroken succession the ministry of this church has continued from the days of Robinson and Brewster to the present. Its records are piously preserved.
THE OLD FORT AND FIRST MEETING-HOUSE.
Aside from its interest to those who find pleasure in meditation among the tombs of past generations, Burial Hill has a history which forms a part of the early history of the town. Long before the spot was used for burial purposes, it served as a ground for possible defence against the savage foe, and here the first church of the colony was established. Shortly after the landing of the Pilgrims, on Dec. 21, 1620, they set about to provide against attack from the redskins, and we learn from their records that “in one field is a great hill, on which we poynt to make a platform and plant our ordnance, which will command all round about.”
In 1622 a larger fort was erected, and in 1627 De Raisieres describes it as a large square house, with flat roof made of thick sawn planks, stayed with oak beams, upon the top of which six cannon were mounted. The lower part was used for a church. The Pilgrims assembled at beat of drum, each with his musket or firelock, and marched to the place of worship.